10 Best Home Bar Ideas
From a simple liquor cabinet to a professional grade set-up.
Going bar hopping is fun for a certain time period, but then you grow up and start to prefer drinking at home in your pajamas And honestly, nothing could be more relaxing. Or, maybe you still like to go out, but also want the option to entertain and turn your own space into something that rivals the coolest of clubs (or dive bars, if that’s more your pace). Since you’re going to need a killer set-up that goes beyond a well-stocked cabinet of booze, we’re spotlighting 30 chic home bar ideas to inspire you. Whether you want to build out a home bar, or just want to turn part of your kitchen counter into one, we’ve got ideas to help you make it happen below.
1) Add a Mirror Backsplash
Not only are the symmetrical wine fridges aesthetically pleasing, but they’re also conveniently located and such good use of the little space. The smokey mirrored backsplash brings the right touch of formal style to this space designed by Studio DB, too.
2) Customize Storage Space
Based out of New York City, architecture firm Shapeless Studio is beyond savvy when it comes to creating stylish storage solutions in small spaces. Here, they carved out a little corner nook complete with built-in shelving, a floating shelf, and a hidden mini fridge so the living room and dining area could fit a home bar.
3) Make It Feel Like a Real Bar
Designed by Michelle Nussbaumer, this home bar is as swanky as it gets. Complete with rich textures, vibrant colors, and elaborate patterns, it’s the perfect place to perch for a nightcap or when you’re hosting parties.
4) Position It Strategically
If you’re going to make room for a home bar in the kitchen, make sure to put it in a good spot. In this space designed by Emily Henderson, the home bar zone is close to the dining area, making it easier to run back and forth when you’re entertaining.
5) Dress Up the Butler’s Pantry
If your home is blessed with a butler’s pantry, use it as a bar. Interior designer Heather Hilliard kept this one light, bright, and classic with printed wallpaper, fresh white paint, and display cabinets.
6) Add Spare Shelves
Decorate shelves with plants, artwork, and cocktail recipe books to spruce up the area. The sleek, dark barstools here help sharpen up the dreamy marble backdrop.
7) Turn It Into a Club
This space designed by ETC.etera for Firehouse Hotel is beyond cool. The funky cheetah-print flooring and upholstery set the scene for a good time, while the painted brick adds a gritty warehouse vibe and the striped fabric introduces a touch of traditional, retro-inspired glam. The takeaway? Have fun with it and lean into kitsch.
8) Use a Cabinet
NICOLEHOLLIS transformed a gold mirrored media cabinet into a surprisingly roomy bar cabinet. When closed, it blends right into the sophisticated living room. But when the clock strikes five and the doors swing open, it feels like a full-fledged bar.
9) Use a Closet
Tuck your little home bar behind a closet door and line the back with a wallpaper that pops. To make sure it blends in nicely with the rest of the room when the door is open, use some of the same accent colors. And remember: No space, no matter how small, is too small for a wine fridge.
10) Pick an Intentional Layout
Keep clutter to a minimum and make sure the bar area is exposed to the living space so you can still socialize while entertaining as Tamsin Johnson did with this layout. The plaster cream walls and texture-rich surfaces create intrigue while the large photograph brings in more personality and contemporary style.
