Happy hour at home: Home bar design ideas

Home bar essentials

A home bar is more than just a sleek cocktail shaker set and a good assortment of spirits. So before we delve into style ideas, let’s take a look at the essentials you’ll need to create your home bar. 

No matter how much space you have, your bar needs three things: a bar sink, the ability to make ice and a place to keep bottles and garnishes fresh and chilled. These essentials give you a working wet bar which means you can operate without having to run back and forth to the kitchen.

Transform the awkward alcove

Lacking space? With a little creativity, built-in bookcases, unused cabinets or small alcoves can be converted into a stunning bar. 

To transform your home bar into a focal point, use a bold palette, an eye-catching splashback or even a patterned wallpaper to call attention to the space. Or, if you’re after a more covert operation, consider installing cabinet doors. That way you can shut up shop when the bar’s not in use.

Small spaces call for small fixtures. So we recommend a small bar sink like the Yarra 6. It’s elegant and compact so you can still have a stylish, functional wet bar. You’ll also want to fit the space with a mini fridge and ice maker to keep drinks at the perfect temperature.

Upgrade the old rumpus room

Kids flown the coop? Or maybe you have a second living area that needs a fresh remodel. This is the perfect space to inject personality into your custom bar. 

With a bit more room, you can really have fun with a theme. Whether you’re after a sleek, modern bar or a classic sports bar, there are endless styles that can suit your aesthetic. Consider designing the space with open shelving and under-cabinet lighting to showcase your collection of spirits.

To make this a functional wet bar, you’ll need to include a bar sink that matches your theme. The BS1 range has a number of materials, including copper, black pearl and gold to suit your design. You may also want to embellish this space with a stylish wine fridge to display your vino collection. And if you have enough room, pop in a dishwasher to make clean-up a breeze.

Elevate al fresco dining

There are few things better than entertaining outside. And with the right design, you might just end up using your outdoor space more than indoors.

Options for a backyard bar range depending on the amount of space you have. You could have a simple poolside tiki bar on the deck. Or you could take the opportunity to renovate your unused shed or barn. The key to an outdoor bar is making sure you can comfortably enjoy it. Equip the space with essentials like comfortable seating for your guests, surfaces for their drinks and some sort of heating element for chilly evenings. 

Consider your location when you fit-out your space and bring earthy elements into your fixtures. The Schock Euro Round Bowl in concrete has the perfect stony surface to complement an outdoor space. Elevate your entertaining power by adding cooking capabilities so you can serve up some hors d’oeuvres.