How to Set Up a Bar in Your Living

If you're looking for ways to transform part of your home into a space for relaxation and fun, you'll enjoy the tips below. You'll discover how to choose the right location, what furniture and equipment are needed, how to organize and decorate the space to create a bar vibe, plus the best tips for enjoying the decoration with your friends. 

How to choose the right location for your home bar 

Choosing the right location for your home bar is crucial for creating a comfortable and functional space. When choosing available space, consider the size and shape of the room and keep in mind other less conventional spaces such as a basement, attic, or outdoor patio. Depending on your typical number of guests, make sure you have enough space to move around comfortably. 

The positioning of the bar in the room is also essential. You should choose a location that is easily accessible but doesn't interfere with other traffic areas in the house. If you want the bar to be the showpiece of the room, you can go for a central position. However, if you prefer a more discreet bar, go for a more secluded location. The entire living room layout might need to be reconfigured if you want to achieve the most suitable interior design.  

Lighting and ventilation are also essential to consider when choosing the right location for your home bar. Make sure the area gets enough natural light during the day, as well as artificial lighting options for the evening. Plus, good ventilation for this area is equally important, mainly if you'll be cooking or making cocktails at the bar. 

Access to utilities is another crucial aspect. Your home bar will need access to water, electricity and possibly gas. Choosing a location that already includes all those utilities, will make it easier to set up your bar and diminish costs. 

The bar is an innovative way to invigorate and transform the space you live in, so it's worth investing in whatever it takes to get the result you dream of.  

photo source: Shutterstock 

Selecting the necessary furniture and equipment 

To create an authentic and functional bar it is essential to choose the right furniture and equipment. Identify the essential furniture that every bar should have: a bar console, bar stools or just stools, and any shelves or cabinets for storing alcoholic drinks and accessories. 

After identifying the essential elements of furniture, consider the size and shape of the available space. In a small room, multi-purpose or folding furniture can be a good space-saving option. Also, anticipate the layout of your furniture; a smart choice in this area can make your home bar feel more spacious and open. 

Select the right equipment for a home bar. These can include a drinks fridge, a mixer, glassware sets, a bottle opener, a shaker, a measuring cup, and other bar utensils. It's essential to choose quality equipment that will help you prepare your favorite drinks efficiently and enjoyably. 

Plus, make sure that all the furniture and equipment will blend harmoniously into your overall design, to create a pleasant and cohesive atmosphere. For example, for a home with a traditional design you could go for a vintage bar, while for a home with a contemporary design you could choose a modern, minimalist bar. 

photo source: Shutterstock 

Organization and decoration of the bar 

Organizing and decorating your home bar is an essential aspect of creating an authentic and enjoyable atmosphere for your leisure time. The style of the bar should match the rest of your home decoration. Whether you prefer a modern, rustic, vintage, or themed style, make sure the accent matches the design of the home. Also, choose a color scheme that fits your preferred mood. You can go for neutral or bright shades if you want a lighter, lively look, or darker, richer colors, for an intimate and elegant atmosphere. 

Furniture and decorative accessories have an important role in defining the character of the bar. Choose comfortable benches or chairs, tables of appropriate height, and shelves for bottles and glasses. Also, add the right mood lighting, themed posters or paintings, and plants or other decorative elements to add personality and functionality! 

If you want to prepare cocktails and serve the guests easier, set up the drinks and equipment in an efficient way. The bottles of commonly used drinks should be accessible, and cocktail utensils should be within easy reach. Glasses can be displayed in an aesthetically pleasing, yet practical way for easy access. A matching shelf or display case can add an aesthetic element and ensure the efficient configuration of drinks and equipment. 

photo source: Shutterstock 

Creating an authentic bar atmosphere 

To create an authentic atmosphere, it's important to have a theme that will define your home bar. You can choose a specific type of bar, such as an Irish pub, a tiki bar, or a wine bar. You can also opt for a theme inspired by a particular historical period. Choosing a theme will help you make consistent decisions about the design, furniture, and even the drinks menu. 

Lighting plays a key role in creating the atmosphere of a home bar. For a relaxing and cozy effect, use dimmer lights with a warm hue. Dimmable lamps, indirect lights`, or even decorative neon lights can be suitable options, depending on the theme chosen. 

Decor is another key element in creating an authentic atmosphere. It should reflect the chosen theme and include items such as themed paintings, ornately framed mirrors, collections of fine drink bottles, or vintage objects. Also, adding accessories such as a pool table, jukebox or quality sound system can complete the atmosphere. 

Music is essential to set the right mood in any bar, including your home bar. The choice of music should be in line with the theme of the bar and personal preferences. For example, for a 50s-inspired bar you might opt for jazz or rock'n'roll, while for a modern bar, genres such as lounge or house may be appropriate.