On busy work days when even having a proper meal becomes difficult, coffee is a lifesaver. We have been grateful to coffee numerous times for giving us the energy to keep going. So now that working from home is on the verge of becoming the norm, we would be remiss to not have a dedicated space for our daily brews as well. A home coffee bar is the perfect solution to address your caffeine cravings in the best way possible and provide a cafe-like brewing experience at home. In this article, we will explore some tips to set up a home coffee bar to ensure maximum functionality.
See also: 10 coffee table designs for your living space
Define your space
Space considerations permitting, it is recommended to designate a specific area in your kitchen or dining room solely for brewing coffee. If you do not have enough space for this, a rolling cart can be a versatile and portable option for a coffee bar. It is also helpful if you wish to move the setup around.
Essential equipment
The right equipment can go a long way in helping you brew your coffee exactly in the way your cafe does. When it comes to saving time and effort, a coffee maker is a must-have that can save your life on busy mornings. Consider your requirements and choose carefully from options like drip coffee makers, espresso machines or single-serve pod machines. If you prefer whole beans instead of the regular powder available in the market, make sure you invest in a good quality grinder. For precision brewing, a kettle with temperature control is highly recommended, especially for pour‐over or French press coffee.
Storage solutions
Have ample space to hold mugs, jars of coffee beans, syrups and other stuff. Shelves are ideal for this purpose. For coffee beans, filters and other supplies, consider using cabinets. Coffee and sugar are best stored in clear, airtight containers to maintain freshness and aesthetic appeal.
Accessories and tools
Create a visually appealing display of mugs and cups to enhance the appearance of your coffee bar. To facilitate easy access, consider using a mug tree or shelf. Also keep a set of spoons and scoops handy for precise measurement of ingredients. A milk frother can be a nice addition if lattes and cappuccinos are your drinks of choice.
Personal touches
Since your coffee bar is such an important part of your space, it would be incomplete without some personal touches. Add a chalkboard to make the space more interactive and mention the daily essentials. A stylist tray for your coffee essentials can also be a functional addition. Enhance the ambiance further by hanging coffee-themes artwork and quotes. For a refreshing touch, add some greenery in the form of a small plant or succulent.
Lighting
Brighten up the area and achieve a plush, cafe-like effect by installing LED lights under cabinets or shelves. Further, for a stunning effect, opt for stylish pendant lights that can add both function and flair to the space.
Functional surfaces
For a comfortable coffee making experience, ensure that you have ample counter space for all the related tasks. A countertop organiser is recommended for greater efficiency. Protect the surfaces from hot coffee pots or mugs by using heat-resistant mats or coasters.
Upgrades and extras
A water filter for your coffee bar ensures access to healthy drinking water while also providing the best taste for your coffee. If cold brew is something you enjoy, consider incorporating a dedicated cold brew coffee maker.
Organisation
Label the jars and containers to keep everything organised and easy to locate. In the case of drawers, stuff is prone to getting cluttered and disorganised. Consider using dividers to keep everything in place within the drawers.
Aesthetic elements
Choose a colour scheme for your coffee bar that goes well with your kitchen or dining area for an overall cohesive look. If you desire a calming effect, go for neutral tones, while bright colours can be used for a dash of energy. Create an eclectic and visually interesting space by incorporating various textures using materials like wood, metal and ceramic for a dynamic look.
FAQs
What are the essential items I should have for my home coffee bar?
Some essentials for your coffee bar include a coffee maker, coffee mugs and ample storage space for ingredients and equipment.
How can I maximise a small space for my coffee bar?
Use vertical space with wall-mounted storage, consider a compact coffee cart and utilise drawer organisers and small containers to keep everything in place.
What should I consider when choosing a location for my coffee bar?
The location should be convenient and accessible, close to a power and water source, and possibly with adequate counter space.
How can I keep my coffee fresh?
Preserve the freshness of coffee beans or grounds by storing them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place away from light and moisture.
What are some creative ways to organise a coffee bar?
Store coffee beans in clear jars, label everything for easy identification, use a tiered tray to keep items accessible and consider installing magnetic strips or racks to hold coffee mugs.
How can I personalise my coffee bar?
Decorative mugs, custom coffee canisters and themed artwork can help add a personal touch to your coffee bar.
What are some common mistakes to avoid while setting up a coffee bar?
Ensure you have adequate storage and organisation to avoid cluttering, clean and maintain your equipment regularly and use the space wisely to avoid overwhelming it.
| 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 |
