If you love to entertain family and friends in your home you probably have considered putting in a home bar. Did we guess right? We love the idea of a home bar. Sometimes it can be tricky to designate that space in your home for a bar and know what you need to stock it properly. If that is your dilemma, then this just might be the must-read that you need.
Creating Space For A Home Bar
Unless you are renovating your home and are already considering making space for a home bar this could be a challenge. First, do you want a wet bar or a dry bar? If you want a dry bar you may have more options regarding location. A wet bar will have a sink with running water so that may give you fewer options when it comes to space.
Usually, a location in or near the living room, dining area, or kitchen is a good spot to put your home bar. Think about the layout of your home and the natural flow of your home. If you can have a seating area where your guests can sit comfortably and relax near the home bar will be optimal.
Home Bar Storage
You will want to make sure you have plenty of space to store bar tools, equipment, your favorite spirits, and mixers. Having all the things you need in one space will save you trips to the kitchen.
There are a few options with storage. A mix of cabinets and shelves can be a very good look for this space. If it is possible try adding in a small bar refrigerator or a wine chiller this will add some luxury to the space, plus you will love the convenience factor. Or if you have limited space to work with you can add a bar cart in your dining area and when done right it can look super chic.
Stocking Your Home Bar With Spirits
Make sure you have your favorites on hand and if you are still not sure, may we suggest Tito’s Handmade Vodka – it is a staple in the home bar we created for The White Elephant. You are going to want to start with the basics so be sure you have the following:
- Vodka
- Gin
- Rum
- Tequila
- Whiskey
Liqueurs & Mixers
You will need to have the perfect accompaniment to make those core drinks and cocktails. Be sure you have the following:
- Vermouth – needed to make Manhattans, Martinis, and Negronis.
- Bitters – can be added to a cocktail that’s already heavy on sour and sweet characteristics. Such as Manhattans, Martinis, Negronis, Sazeracs, and Old Fashioneds.
- Orange liqueur – is mostly used in classic cocktails like the Sidecar, Cosmopolitan, and Mai Tai. However, high-quality brands like Grand Marnier can also be enjoyed neat.
- Assortment of mixers – keep these non-alcoholic beverages on hand: club soda, a selection of juices, cola, and tonic water.
Wine
For wine lovers, you will want to have a few varieties of red and white wine in your home bar. Be sure to store unopened bottles of wine in cabinets with closing doors or in a wine chiller. If wine bottles are exposed to UV rays it will affect the taste and smell of wine. To get the most out of each bottle of wine you will want to invest in a quality bottle opener, aerator, and decanter.
Glassware
There are a variety of designs to choose from. Glassware is shaped specifically to bring out the aroma and flavors of spirits and cocktails. Depending on how many people you entertain at a time it is usually a good idea to have a set of 6 or 8 of the most common designs of glassware.
Here are some designs you will want to have in your home bar:
- Martini Glasses
- Highball & Collins Glasses
- Rocks Glasses
- Margarita Glasses
- Champagne Glasses
- White Wine Glasses
- Red Wine Glasses
- Beer Glasses
- Specialty Glasses (Irish Coffee Glasses or Brandy Snifter)
- Shot Glasses
Of course, you can acquire your collection slowly by selecting what is going to be important to you and your guests.
Home Bar Gadgets
You are going to need some gadgets in your home bar to make those specialty cocktails. Like your famous margaritas, you will need a shaker. Especially for those martini drinkers that prefer their martinis “Shaken, not stirred.”
Must-have gadgets:
- Shaker
- Strainer
- Jigger or small measuring cup
- Pitcher
- Bar spoon
Don’t Forget The Garnishes
Once you have perfected your cocktail recipes you are going to want them to be dressed to impress with the best garnishes, right?
Keep a few of these on hand:
- Olives
- Lemon & lime wedges
- Maraschino cherries
- Sprigs of rosemary & mint
Finishing Touches For Your Home Bar
Make sure you have the right hardware on your cabinets that complements the space the best. That and lighting can make all the difference. Showcase a piece of art or a well-loved heirloom. Add in a mirror if it feels right – mirrors can make the space feel bigger.
Put your favorite bottles on display and an elegantly detailed ice bucket. Place some of your favorite coasters and maybe some personalized cocktail napkins strategically in your new home bar. If you have room left over, fresh flowers are always a nice touch. Last but definitely not least, have fun creating this space!
If it all feels overwhelming Trade Mark Interiors will be elated to help you make your home bar dreams come true!