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Put it this way: if you had a home bar, you would never even need to go out. Think of all the money you’d save—that totally justifies installing your own home bar!
Home décor magazines are pros at highlighting unique rooms in luxury houses, like the aforementioned home bar. Whether you’re seriously contemplating installing one or simply daydreaming of an endless supply of homemade cocktails, here’s a little inspiration to whet your whistle.
Pick the Place
When it comes to home bars, the right location is pretty much wherever you want it to be. If you happen to have a spare room kicking around, that would be the perfect spot to set up the home bar. Man caves or furnished basements are two other good picks. If you can carve out a nook in your kitchen, that would be a natural fit, since kitchens are usually the epicenter of entertainment.
Decide on Décor
To theme or not to theme… that is the question! At the very least, decide on a decorating style to apply throughout your bar. Think classic and sophisticated (dark wood, leather, rich fabrics); positively retro (antiques, antiques and more antiques); slick and modern (smooth lines and avant-garde lighting); or dive bar (completely with neon lights).
Go Big (or Big-ish)
Decide the scale of your home bar—this will often depend on your space and budget. You might choose to install a full bar, complete with an organized back-end, stools for schmoozing, draft taps, and plenty of water and electricity hook ups for sinks, washing machines, fridges—the list goes on.
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Pick Your Poison
A home bar is no bar at all if it is not stocked! First, you’ll want to make sure you have space to store your liquor—somewhere dark and cool is preferred. Begin by stocking the basics. You can always add more liquor later. Focus on the spirits needed to make your favorite drinks, plus the few that can make most of the classics. Pick a cognac, a gin, a vodka, a tequila, a bourbon, and a white rum.
Stock Up on Accessories
Here’s a good check list to start: Ice cube trays. A bar spoon. A muddler. A cocktail shaker. A strainer. And don’t forget about the barware and glassware!
Learn to Mix
Pick up a book or two or browse the internet to find some unique cocktail recipes. Look for classic spins of your favorite concoctions—and don’t forget to test them out.
Have a Party
A home bar is not meant to be enjoyed alone, so invite your friends over and channel your inner bartender, or let people take turns behind the bar. Fair warning: once your friends know that you have a bar set up in your home, your place will quickly become the official new favored party spot.
The Mini Bar
If your house layout or budget suggest that a full bar is not in your near future, that doesn’t mean that you need to miss out on all the fun. A classic bar cart or a cool antique cupboard are wonderful alternatives to the full bar.
