There’s something so sophisticated about a home bar, and there are many ways to set up the perfect one for you. Create a zone that transports you and your guests to the coolest speakeasy without racking up a gigantic tab with these tips that go beyond a bar cart.

Image via Pinterest

 

Do some minimal renovations

If you love a little DIY and are handy with a set of tools, take the time to create a bespoke home bar, tailored to your taste.
 

1. Wall shelving

Make the most of an awkward space by installing a few shelves to display your favourite glassware or liquor bottles. Floating shelves work really well in a corner or blank stretch of wall and can act as a piece of decor.

Image via Pinterest

 

2. Lighting

Make those bottles pop and your glasses sparkle with a little extra lighting. Strip or rope lights placed underneath shelves where they meet the wall add a glam, high-end bar feel, or if you’re feeling more twinkly you can use fairy lights. 

Image via Pinterest

 

3. Undershelf glass storage racks

Hanging your wine glasses not only makes them easy to access and fills any large gaps between shelves but they can be used in a variety of different places. Attach them to shelves, of course, or underneath a console table, in a bookcase or within a spacious display cabinet.

Image via Pinterest

 

Think beyond the bar cart

You know we love a good bar cart moment, and if you’ve already got one but just need a little styling help, check out our how to style bar carts article here. If you’re after something a little different though, these furniture pieces work just as beautifully.
 

4. Buffets, sideboards and display cabinets

All three of these options are sturdy and made to hold heavier items like stacks of dinnerware, so you know your spirits collection will be safely housed. There’s also an endless amount of different styles, designs, colours and sizes so you can find something that perfectly suits the look you’re going for. Plus, you can hide away any of the not-so-pretty stuff and show off your best barware on top, with open shelving or behind glass doors.

Image via Pinterest

 

5. Console tables

If you’re displaying your home bar in a slimmer space, a console is a great option. It’s best to go for one with at least two levels so you can properly display your bar pieces, but if you’re keen on the pared-back look, display your glassware on the top and use a wine rack below to store your best bottles. Don’t forget to add a lamp to brighten it up!


 

6. Kitchen island trolleys

Shelving, drawers, wine racks, you name it, a kitchen trolley has got you covered. Store bottle openers, straws and coasters away in the drawers and use the shelving and the top to show off the pieces you love.

Image via Pinterest

 

7. Bookcases and shelving units

Gone are the days when bookcases were just for books. Level up (see what we did there) your home bar game with a bookcase and incorporate height for real wow factor. All those extra shelves leave space to incorporate more of your personal style too, with beautiful statues and ornaments or faux plants to add a bit of life.

Image via Pinterest

 

Don’t underestimate the power of home bar decor

Once you've got the bones of your home bar sorted, it's time to dress it to the nines. Decor is like the jewellery of a space, and even changing the simplest pieces can take you from a coastal look to a mid-century modern feel in seconds. Curate your home bar decor for practical drink serving and added flair.
 

8. Trays

While you can arrange your decanters, barware and glasses beautifully just on a surface, a decorative tray allows you to group items into gorgeous vignettes, as well as adding height, colour or new materials. They’re also really handy for when you’re making more than two drinks so you can serve your drinks with ease.

Image via Pinterest

 

9. Coasters

You don’t want to ruin your perfectly styled bar or surfaces in your lounge or dining space with glass rings, and that pesky condensation can dampen a good time. Find a stack of coasters worthy of display to add some dimension and pops of visual interest to your set-up.

Image via Pinterest

 

10. Wine coolers and ice buckets

Practical? Yes. Dazzlingly elegant? Also yes. Whether it’s metal, glass, or wrapped in leather, a wine cooler or ice bucket instantly upgrades your home bar to luxury status. 

Image via Pinterest

 

11. Glasses

Arguably the most important part of home bar decor is the glassware you choose to display. Stick with one type grouped together in relevant areas, like champagne glasses next to a wine cooler and highballs or tumblers with your spirits. Use them as an opportunity to show off your personality. If you have vintage wine glasses handed down from your grandma with crystal-cut detailing, show them off! If simple elegance is more your thing, stemless wine glasses are tastefully low key.

Image via Pinterest

 

12. Wallpaper, wall art and mirrors

Look a little further than just what makes up the bar itself and make sure the surroundings of the space are styled to complement. If you’re working in a smaller, enclosed space, adding wallpaper will transform a potential hidey-hole into an exciting treasure trove. For a more open space, hang wall art above the bar or even rest it on the surface leaning against the wall to add interest to any blank wall space. Both small and large home bars can benefit from the addition of a mirror, which can really define the space and create the illusion of a larger glass or bottle collection!