How to create a stylish home bar
With the bars and pubs remaining closed until 12th April and socialising on hold until then, a home bar is the way forward. Here’s our tips to create the best…
Image: Wayfair
As we approach another Spring season in lockdown, home bars are once again on everyone’s minds. If we can’t go out to enjoy a tipple or two, why not create our own watering hole to enjoy a cocktail or two at home?
From easy ways to set up a drinks bar in your home to some ‘wow-factor’ ideas, here’s our guide to creating a home bar of your very own.
Opt for a drinks trolley
Image: Oliver Bonas
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!
Go for the garden
Image: Wayfair
As we get closer to Spring, this gorgeous outdoor offering is much more of a possibility. It also keeps the ‘bar’ separate to the house so you really feel like you’re off to the pub! Take this idea further by transporting your bar to the shed, so whatever the weather you can enjoy a beverage or two. Head to the Wayfair site for plenty of outdoor garden bar inspiration.
Choose a cocktail cabinet
Image: Atkin & Thyme
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.
Incorporate a wine fridge
Image: Husky Lifestyle
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.
Use existing furniture
Image: Garden Trading
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.
Add in a drinks rack
Image: Next
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.
Style with cocktail herbs
Image: National Trust
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.
Create a built-in bar
Image: Connery cocktail cabinet, Masterclass Kitchens
If you entertain often during ‘normal’ times, a built-in cocktail bar will ensure 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.
