When it comes to get-togethers and house parties, your bar unit is undoubtedly the focal point for guests. This place is the life of the party and the centre of attraction. Therefore, a well-kept bar unit is absolutely essential. So if you are looking to set up a bar unit or redesign an existing one, we have curated some ideas that you might find useful for reference.
See also: Center table decoration ideas to elevate your living room décor
Classic home bar
This is a timeless design that never goes out of style. Its features include a wooden or marble countertop and ample storage in the form of wine racks and glassware shelves. This space might also have a sink and a built-in fridge. Since this space is especially designed to facilitate interaction, there is a seating area on the other side of the counter. The classic design also includes a mirror behind the liquor racks and ambient lighting.
Corner bar
These bars are designed for optimal space utilisation. They have an L-shaped or curved counter designed to fit into a corner. The racks for liquor are generally located underneath the counter with hanging stemware holders overhead. There is space for bar stools at the other side of the counter. Perfect way to transform underutilised corner spaces into spaces for social interaction.
Source: Pinterest @bedbathbeyond
Repurposed furniture bar
Get creative with old furniture and incorporate them in your bar unit. You can easily convert old dressers, cabinets and trunks into bars by retrofitting them with bar elements such as bottle holders and glass racks. Add storage facilities as per requirements and place a flat countertop and your repurposed bar unit is ready!
Outdoor tiki bar
Specially designed for outdoor events, this bar features a thatched canopy with bamboo or rattan furniture for a rustic appeal. The bar stools, serving counters and decorative elements are all tropical-themed. All the materials used are resistant to weather and harsh environmental elements for greater resilience.
Source: Pinterest @homesthetics
Wine bar
This type of bar unit focuses more on storage and presentation of wine bottles rather than facilitating social interaction and entertainment of guests. It generally has a small setup including wine racks and cooler, a tasting area with a small counter and overhead racks for holding stemware. You might also include a chalkboard to list the wine selections available.
Industrial bar
This is the style that makes use of a raw and edgy aesthetic. You can create such a bar unit by incorporating exposed metal pipes, surfaces of distressed wood or metal and a wooden or concrete countertop. Moreover, you can also include bar stools with metal frames and task lighting using pendant fixtures.
Source: Pinterest @ArtFacade
Minimalist bar
This style boasts of sleekness, class and elegance. Its primary feature includes the use of clean lines. The bar counter is usually sleek and unadorned and the bar stools are also minimalist. The storage area is hidden from view to avoid clutter and the space has built-in LED lighting.
Floating shelves bar
To save space, you can go for wall mounted floating shelves to showcase liquor bottles, glassware and other accessories. Perfect for compact spaces, this minimalist setup creates an open and airy feel, especially when complemented with hidden LED fixtures for ambient lighting.
Fold-out bar
Yet another space optimisation option, a fold-out bar comprises a wall-mounted cabinet or storage unit that can be holded down to reveal a countertop and storage compartments. Moreover, it can be neatly folded back and fit into the wall when not in use.
Source: Pinterest @decoratedlifer
Home pub
Bring home a real pub-like ambience using dark wood furnishings, high stools and making a centrepiece of the countertop. For added effect, you can even add a beer tap or kegerator and incorporate classic pub decor like stained glass, mirrors and brass accents.
Hidden bar
This kind of bar unit neatly disguises a bar within other pieces of furniture. You can use any closed piece of furniture, such as a cabinet, for this purpose. For better results, you can even use a rotating bookshelf. This setup helps conceal the clutter and keep the bar out of sight when not in use.
Globe bar
Add a touch of antique sophistication to the room with a globe bar. This bar is disguised as a globe and opens to reveal storage within. Bottles and glasses are stored in a cabinet with ornate and rich designs.
Source: Pinterest @dealsanuk
LED-lit bar
As the name suggests, this setup makes use of LED lighting fixtures for both task and ambient lighting. These are lot up under shelves, countertops and recessed areas for a vibrant and modern look. Additionally, you can even customise the lighting to various colours and intensities to suit your taste.
Rustic bar
Such a bar setup makes ample use of natural materials for a weathered or distressed finish. You can go for materials like stone, wood and wrought iron, complemented with warm, melloe lighting and cosy seating for an earthy ambience.
Movable bar cart
If you are looking for a compact and easy to move option, a portable bar cart is the one for you. These glass carts have separate storage areas for liquor and glassware, along with a separate countertop for serving drinks.
Home brewery
Specially designed for the purpose of brewing, this has a separate space for brewing equipment and the display of homemade brews. You can even incorporate a tasting station. Make sure to include a mix of both functional and decorative elements related to brewing.
Source: Pinterest @jnp93
Modern glass bar
This bar unit setup makes maximum use of glass elements. You can include glass shelves, countertops and backsplashes, paired with metal or acrylic accents for contrast. Throw in some minimalist bar stools to complete the sleek and contemporary look.
DIY pallet bar
You can repurpose wooden pallets to construct a bar unit with open shelving for bottles and a countertop for serving. This style has a rustic vibe to it and can be customised to incorporate space saving elements for compact spaces.
Source: Pinterest @john8741
Convertible bar
Multi-purpose and super functional, you can repurpose a regular cabinet, desk or table to incorporate a bar setup in a way that it does not lose its original functionality. This adds a touch of versatility to the setup while also saving space when not in use.
Multi-functional bar
You can easily combine a bar with a home entertainment centre or kitchen island to widen its functionality. This will provide an integrated space for undertaking various activities simultaneously, especially in the presence of guests.
FAQs
What are the must-have elements of a home bar unit?
A bar unit must include a countertop for serving, storage space for liquor bottles, shelves or racks for glassware and a seating area with bar stools. A small fridge, a sink and decorative accents can also be helpful additions.
How much space is ideally required for a home bar?
You can choose a bar design as per the availability of space in your home. While compact bar units take up minimal space, larger units with multiple features might require a substantial area.
Are there any space optimising options of bar setups available?
Fold-out bars, bar carts and wall-mounted shelves are units that can be stowed away or serve other functions when space is limited, making them ideal for saving space.
Can I set up a bar unit in an outdoor space?
Absolutely! Make sure to use weather-resistant materials and furniture, a sturdy construction and portable designs for greater flexibility and ease of usage.
What are some popular aesthetics for home bar units?
Classic, rustic, modern, industrial, minimalist and theme-based bars such as tiki or vintage are some popular aesthetic styles of bar setups.
How can I repurpose existing furniture into bar units?
You can convert old dressers, cabinets and bookshelves into bar units by modifying them to hold bottles and glasswares and installing a flat countertop for serving.
How can I add to the functionality of my home bar?
The functionality of your bar unit can be enhanced by adding comfortable seating and an entertainment area to make it a space that facilitates social interaction.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
