If you have ever dreamt of having an extremely stylish bar in your small apartment, you probably thought it was impossible, right? Well, with just a little bit of creativity and a smart plan, the stylish bar can easily fit into any compact living space. The bar is simply the best place to be to hang out and chill with friends and family. Whether a small gathering or a big celebration, the home bar is the place where you enjoy drinks ensuring safety and a controlled environment. Here, we provide you with some aesthetic ideas that maximize space while maintaining functionality.
Choosing the Right Locations
Most house owners and apartment occupants have always wished to have space where they can enjoy drinks with their buddies and families. The first step to creating your home bar is to decide on its location. You can set up your drinking place in various places such as a basement, garage, kitchen, living room, pub shed, backyard patio, or spare room. Building a home bar may be one of your most enjoyable DIY projects.
However, in selecting the location, you need to consider which area you usually receive your guests. It will be easiest and most convenient to place in or near that area. Besides, in the case of a small room, it is practical to select a bar that would be portable or folded up, especially when the room serves multiple purposes.
Bar Design Elements
When setting up a home bar, there are several key elements to consider that can make the space both stylish and useful. These elements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the bar but also improve its usability.
Bar Counter
If you have adequate space, you may install a bar counter to specify the space. This bar counter will be the focal point where drinks will be prepared and at the same time served to your guests. It creates an area that is mainly availed for mixing cocktails and arranging drinks and snacks. Usually, a bar counter is equipped with in-built shelves, cabinets, or drawers that can accommodate liquor bottles, glassware, and other equipment. These are very handy to keep everything neatly organized and readily accessible.
Glassware
Glassware plays a crucial role in any bar, serving as an essential tool for drinking, serving, and preparing a variety of beverages. There are different types of glasses specifically designed for different kinds of drinks. For example, there are wine glasses to be used for fine wines, beer glasses for different types of beers, highball glasses for mixed drinks, cocktail glasses for more sophisticated cocktails, and pitchers for serving beverages in larger quantities. Using the right glassware for each type of drink can significantly enhance the drinking experience. It adds a touch of elegance and enjoyment. Besides, glassware can be very attractively stored either on a rack or on open shelves. Delicate glassware should always be upside down in storage to avoid dust accumulation inside.
Lighting and Ambiance
The overall mood of the people in the bar is affected by the lighting such as changing the lighting can greatly change the mood in general. Dimmable lights and other decorative fixtures on the premises would bring in warmth and comfort. You can also use different types of lighting, such as ambient, task, and accent lights. Furthermore, pendant lights, under-cabinet lights, and dimmers can help adjust the light to fit any occasion.
Choosing Stylish Furniture
When picking compact bar furniture for a small space, it is necessary to consider multi-functional pieces. Each of the available options is practical and in style, aiming to save you some space, yet being functional.
Mini Bar Cabinet
A mini bar cabinet is versatile enough to complement both traditional and modern room designs. It has several storage shelves and compartments that help you efficiently store bottles, glassware, and other equipment. You can find designs that feature both open and closed shelves. Similarly, if you are into DIY projects, if you like DIY projects, then you may convert any older piece of furniture into a bar cabinet.
Bar Cart
A bar cart is another versatile and convenient option. It is perfect for flexible use since you can move it anywhere easily when needed. During gatherings, you get to roll out the cart to serve your guests and then tuck it away easily if you don’t need it anymore.
Wall-mounted Bar Table
If you have limited space, consider using a wall-mounted bar or a foldable table. These options help save space and can be stylishly integrated into your wall decor. A wall-mounted bar can include shelves for organizing bottles and glassware, keeping everything neat and easily accessible.
Utilizing vertical space
Vertical bars are an excellent choice for small homes or apartments with limited rooms because their tall, upward design helps maximize storage and keep things organized and clutter-free. You can make use of often overlooked areas such as corners or the space under stairs, to install a vertical bar. Alternatively, you can install open shelving or hanging racks to store your liquor, glassware, and accessories, without taking up floor space. Another option is a floating bar, which can be mounted on the wall to neatly store bottles without taking up shelf or counter space. Pre-made vertical storage units specifically designed for bars are also a convenient solution for organizing bottles and bar tools. Besides, you should add a mirror behind the bar which creates the illusion of a bigger space and enhances the look of the room.
Updating Your Bar Decor Seasonally
Updating the decor of your home bar according to the seasons is a fun way to keep your space feeling fresh and lively. You can use seasonal-themed glassware, like festive cocktail glasses in winter or colorful tumblers in summer. Even though it’s a home bar, you can create a seasonal cocktail menu on a chalkboard or a printed card to match the theme. Additionally, you can decorate the bar’s backdrop with seasonal artwork or prints, or use wall decals and temporary wallpaper that can be easily swapped out. Place some plants that can bring a touch of nature and greenery to your bar.
Also read, 4 Types of Faucets and How to Choose the Perfect One for Your Home!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a home bar fit into a small apartment?
Of course! You can fit a stylish and functional bar in your compact living space with a little creativity and smart planning. You may consider versatile furniture, selecting the right location, and making maximum use of vertical space as some effective means to optimize your space.
2. Where is the best place to set up a home bar in a small apartment?
The ideal location for your home bar depends on your lifestyle and available space. Popular options include the living room, kitchen, or even a spare room. If space is limited, consider a portable or foldable bar that can be easily tucked away when not in use.
3. What are some key design elements to consider for a home bar?
Some key design elements that one should consider are the well-defined bar counter, proper glassware, and proper lighting. Consider adding stylish furniture like mini bar cabinets or bar carts and use vertical space efficiently with shelves or racks to keep the area organized and functional.
4. How can I make my home bar look inviting and classy?
You can make your home bar look inviting and stylish with a matching color scheme or theme for the decor. You can add comfortable seating and include personal touches such as artwork or custom glassware. Use ambient lighting to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
5. Can I still have a home bar if I have pets or small children?
Yes, you can still have a home bar if you have pets or small children. However, it’s important to take precautions. You need to keep bottles and glassware out of reach. You should use cabinet locks, and non-breakable items like plastic or acrylic to ensure safety.