How To Create The Ultimate Home Bar Setup

C.J. Braden     •      2 Minute Read

how to create the ultimate home bar setup

How To Create The Ultimate Home Bar Setup

Most people go out of the home to socialize, but the costs can be high. You pay over the odds not only for the beverages but also for the atmosphere. 

The good news is you can avoid high prices by building your very own bar in your house. Put it in the kitchen, basement, or even garage and negate the need to leave the house every weekend. 

tropical bar ideas

Try adding an island themed bar if you like the tropics

This post explores everything you need to know about building your own home bar. Check out our ideas below. 


home bar in kitchen

Adding a bar in your kitchen can be easily completed

Figure Out Where Your Bar Will Go

The first step is to think about where you will put your bar. You’ll need enough space for all the drinks and seating, as well as a countertop for serving. 

If you have limited space, you might consider a collapsing bar. These fold away neatly when not in use while providing you with sufficient room to entertain all your guests when they arrive. 

You’ll also want to consider whether you want a wet or dry bar. A wet bar connects to your home plumbing, while a dry bar doesn’t. You don’t need a sink, but it can help with things like washing up and providing water on tap. It’s also good if you plan on installing an ice machine. 


basement home bar

A basement home bar is a great addition

Consider The Design And Layout

The next step is to carefully consider the layout. Most bars look similar to each other because there is a tried-and-tested formula. 

The bar should be around 42 inches in height, with stools around 30 inches. The depth of the bar should be approximately 24 inches, as this provides enough space for drinks cabinets and preparation areas. There should be a lower counter on the serving side and a higher one on the drinking side. 

living room bar with stools

Add a bar to your home with a modern twist

When installing a bar, you’ll want to consider ceiling height, doorway and staircase widths, sump pump location, and TV hookup. You’ll also want to ensure you install plenty of electrical outlets for blenders, refrigerators and mixers.


If you are thinking about adding a home coffee bar, we have tips on how to fix that pesky Keurig if you have trouble with yours via our YouTube Channel @carolynjbraden or below!


house coffee bar ideas

If you love coffee, add a coffee bar to your house

Choose Design Elements

Once you have the design and layout sorted, the next step is to consider the design elements and materials you will use. Bars should have a slightly different feel from the rest of your home and get people in the mood for having a good time. 

house bar with many shelves

Add lots of shelves for storage to your home bar

To achieve this effect, you might want to consider using peel and stick shiplap wall planks on the walls. This way, you can give your bar a more authentic feel. You could also install big glass mirrors or bar foot rails. 

Shelving is also an important consideration. Many home bars line up their drinks in cabinets and then light them up. 


modern wood bar in basement

Try adding a wine refrigerator to a home bar

Add Appliances

Lastly, you’ll want to add various appliances to your bar to allow you to make any drinks guests order. Chillers and refrigerators are essential, especially if you plan on serving vintage beverages. 

Try to pick more industrial-style appliances that have the “wow” factor. Brushed metal facings look great in the home bar context. Also, consider bar sinks and drainage. Contractors should be able to arrange installation for you while being sensitive to your budget. 

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C.J. (Carolyn) Braden is a regular contributor and editor for Carolyn’s Blooming Creations. She has been featured in numerous media publications such as InStyle Magazine, on HGTV, on Bustle.com, and more. She is the author of the books Georgia McMasters in Amethyst Lake Cemetery, How To Be Yourself: 3 Ways To Help You Being You, and the illustrator for the children’s book Bridging Connections. She is a former classroom teacher that now dedicates her life to educating others on how to live their most healthy, creative and happy life. Learn more about her visiting our About Us page.

This is a collaborative post and may contain affiliate links. All opinions and ideas expressed in this post, however, are based on my personal point of view.