8 ways to create a stylish home bar
Home bars rocketed in popularity during lockdown, with many going as far as creating a garden pub in the shed! From easy ways to set up a drinks trolley to some wow-factor ideas, Good Homes seeks out inspiring ways to create your own home bar or cocktail corner…
1. Opt for a drinks trolley
This retro classic has definitely had a revival of late, and you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing your cocktail trolley. This bar cart design from Oliver Bonas may set you back a pretty penny, but investing in quality is well worth it! Find more drinks trolley ideas here.
Photo: Oliver Bonas
2. Choose a cocktail cabinet
These special cocktail cabinets have everything you need for your home bar, from a bottle rack to glass storage, all in the guise of a stylish piece of furniture. Our pick to shop for the best styles? Try Atkin & Thyme’s stylish selection.
Photo: Atkin & Thyme
3. Incorporate a wine fridge
The new must-have in a kitchen, a dedicated fridge for wine and champagne will come in handy when we’re finally able to host again! Set up your cocktail bar nearby, ensuring you set out all drinks glasses within easy reach.
Photo: Husky Lifestyle
4. Use existing furniture
If you just want to create a cocktail bar for a special occasion, you don’t have to go all-in on a cocktail trolley. Clear a sideboard or dresser and set up your cocktail area here instead. Choose a piece with a durable and wipeable top, to ensure that it’s not damaged by any sticky spills.
Photo: Garden Trading
5. Add in a drinks rack
Whether it’s a wine rack or somewhere to hang glasses (a must-have to keep dust from settling in your barware), a drinks holder like this Cheers drink shelf from Next is perfect for designating an area to cocktails and entertaining.
Photo: Next
6. Style with cocktail herbs
Wherever you create your cocktail bar, fresh herbs make a stylish decoration option. Not only do they look great, they’re perfect for embellishing cocktails. Mint and rosemary are good options that can work for a variety of cocktails.
Photo: National Trust
7. Create a built-in bar
A built-in cocktail bar ensures your home is the place to party. You could build an entire bar separate from your kitchen and dining room, but we love the idea of having an integrated bar that can be hidden away when you’re not using it. Masterclass Kitchens specialise in these amazing cocktail bars, which look like normal kitchen cabinetry when the doors are closed.
Photo: Connery cocktail cabinet by Masterclass Kitchens
8. Go for the garden
When summer rolls around, a garden bar is an enticing option. As lovely as an al fresco set up is, if you want your garden bar to function in all weathers, try converting your shed into a little pub. Head to the Wayfair site for plenty of home bar inspiration.
Photo: Wayfair