There are lots of things we love around here. A good before and after is one of them, and we also love a nice bar configuration. They can be a real game changer for a space. A sweet reader wrote us on Instagram the other day, and asked if we could share some of our best tips for designing a good bar. So I thought that I’d share some of our favorites today.
Tips for designing a good bar: set your intentions
Before you even begin, think about what you’d like to include in your bar design. A coffee bar with lots of space for all your awesome mug collections. An ice machine with that great crunchy ice a-la Chic-Fil-A/Sonic/allthegoodfastfoodplaces. {Yes, please.} A pull-up area for extra bar stools and kiddos to eat. A smaller sink to manage little messes.
The best bars start with good planning to meet your greatest needs, so think through what you can use in the space.
It’s also important to remember that not all bars go in just the kitchen area, so it’s a great opportunity to get creative with your space. {See cabana, and pool house area, below.}
They make for great opportunities for additional entertaining, and so much more.
Tips for designing a good bar: Plan for storage
Function, function, function. With an extra space that a bar can bring to an area, it’s smart to plan accordingly.
Open shelving is a great chance to make a statement while utilizing that area for extra storage. Or cabinets are amazing for more space. So from built-ins overhead, to full on cabinetry, this all goes back to great planning and taking advantage of every bit of that area.
{For more styling ideas, be sure to check out our post 1 bar 3 ways!}
Tips for designing a good bar: Materials
Materials are so important to make such a fun statement. Good tile is a great way to tie it all together on that extra wall. It’s amazing to combo it out with countertop options, too. Open shelving is always smart with under cabinet lighting {from Kichler!}
From planning based on your needs, to countertop options, be sure to consider all things materials and how they impact the space.
Tips for designing a good bar: All those finishing touches
Not only can they work hard for you, but bars are supposed to be fun spaces. They’re an awesome opportunity to bring in the unique pieces and sentimental finds, too. So from your favorite glass collections to fun finds {we’ve even had some homeowners display fishing trophies here}, it’s important to let them show some personality.
Have fun bringing it all together as an awesome display piece!
These are some of our favorite tips for designing a bar!
As always let us know how you’d design your own bar. We’d love to hear.
Have an inspired day!
Rakhinationwide says
Great work! Couldn’t’ have been better.