We’ll never completely give up a night at our favourite local or that fancy wine bar. But after enduring overpriced cocktails, a queue for the loo, and "background" music you have to shout over to be heard, it’s hard not to wonder if we could have a better time at home. No surprise, then, that more of us are turning to home bar ideas that let us entertain on our own terms.
But before you start stocking up on artisan gin and commissioning a “Bar Humbug” sign for the kitchen, it’s worth taking time to plan things properly. A cluttered shelf of dusty bottles and mismatched glasses isn't going to cut it, we're afraid.
The good news? "A home bar can be designed to suit almost any interior," adds Sophie Chapman, interior designer and associate at The Vawdrey House. "From relaxed, traditional timber joinery that evokes a country pub, to contemporary cocktail bar styles with antique mirrors and refined metallic accents, a home bar simply needs to reflect and enhance the character of the space."
From choosing the right location – be it part of your kitchen design or incorporated into a living room design – to finding the best ways to showcase glasses and bottles, Sophie and more of our favourite experts are here to help. We'll walk you through how to create a home bar so good it’ll become the most talked-about hotspot on your street.
A founding member of The Vawdrey House, Sophie oversees the design team, bringing her trademark energy, creativity and out-of-the-box thinking to projects. Sophie is a master at developing unusual furniture packages, styling projects and taking clients on sourcing adventures, especially to antique fairs and French brocantes!
With over a decade of experience running an award-winning interior design business Rachel is now breaking down barriers through her new company The Business Of Interiors, a platform to unite designers and build a community.
Her award-winning studio – a converted countryside barn that she has designed and furnished with the same care and attention as she would with a client’s home – is going from strength to strength, working on illustrious properties across the UK & internationally.
With a fashion degree and a visual merchandising background, Josh specialises in trend forecasting and product development, drawing on his design insight and market awareness to curate commercially successful upholstery ranges.
With seven years of experience within the industry, he developed a strong ability to identify emerging trends and translate them into high-performing, customer-focused products. Passionate about blending style with strategy, Josh is committed to delivering trend-led, design-forward pieces that combine aesthetic appeal with strong sales performance.
1. Be inspired by commercial settings, but keep it real
"This is somewhere that you will make some of your best memories – a place to socialise, unwind and enjoy time with friends – so a sense of luxury will always help set the tone," advises Rachel Usher, interior designer and founder of Usher & Co. "Ask yourself, are you trying to create a nightclub, or something more like a speakeasy where people can relax and chat? That will guide your approach."
"It should feel like an extension of your home – just with more depth, more tactility and more atmosphere," she adds. "It is a space where you can be a little braver."
"Think of the commercial bars or restaurants you love," she adds. "They usually have more layers of texture and tone. Take that as inspiration and ask, what do I love about my home, and how can I enrich and deepen that mood here, without it feeling disconnected from the rest of the house."
2. Lean into Art Deco
"Certain interior styles lend themselves beautifully to a home bar," says Josh Branigan, a Furniture and Home Interiors Expert at unique furniture and homeware retailer Cuckooland. "Art Deco is a natural fit, with its glamorous touches of brass, mirror and glass, and jewel colours like deep green and teal, ideal for a more sophisticated setting."
"Alternatively, a 1970s-inspired look brings warmth and character, using rich woods, curved shapes and soft lighting to create a stylish, retro feel," Josh adds.
One of our favourite features of the bar above, designed by Woodworks Brighton, is the built-in banquette that backs onto the kitchen island. Upholstered in rich, emerald green fabric – a strong Deco jewel colour – it's the perfect corner for conspiratorial late-night chats.
Three stunning drinks cabinets to shop
This pill-shaped cabinet features a curtain wrapped in fabric and complemented by brushed brass-coloured handles. Designed for functionality, it includes adjustable feet for stability, blending modern elegance with sleek craftsmanship.
This luxury sideboard showcases masterful craftsmanship, blending rich dark-stained oak with an Emperador marble top. Inspired by classic check and stripe patterns, each detail is crafted to perfection, creating a statement piece that exudes elegance and timeless style.
Laura Ashley's Balmoral 2 door, 2 drawer display unit offers ample storage for those treasured objects. The unit benefits from two useful drawers as well three fixed glass shelves.
3. Head to the Highlands for inspiration
Not feeling that glam statement? Perhaps you'd like to lean into more of a country pub aesthetic. "For something more traditional, a Scottish Highlands-inspired bar works wonderfully," says Josh Branigan, who explains out how to style the space while avoiding that 'sticky-carpet local' feel. "Use olive and heather green tones, leather bar stools and armchairs and wood wall panelling to make the space feel welcoming and atmospheric."
Subtle plaid or tartan upholstery and accessories – cushions and throws – also feed into this look. Steer clear of novelty beer signs and plastic optics, and keep glassware traditional – heavy cut-glass whisky tumblers are ideal.
You could even include artwork of Scottish landscapes and nods to native wildlife such as deer, foxes, squirrels and even salmon. But be subtle about it. You don't need to go as far as hanging taxidermy on the walls; this Ship's Decanter with Stags Head Stopper from Annabel James, is a classy alternative.
4. House everything in a drinks larder
A standalone larder cabinet can make the perfect home bar. Whether you buy a readymade solution from the high street or commission one – like this example from Davenport – you'll have all the space you need.
Door-mounted racks can be repurposed as storage for bottles, mixers and glasses, and smaller drawers can hold openers, stirrers and straws. Larder cabinets also typically come with a sturdy worktop that's ideal for prep – cutting fruit, blitzing ice in a blender, and so on.
And once last orders has been called, you can close the doors on your bar, which is great for family-friendly spaces – and a subtle hint to guests that it's home time...
5. Make the most of a small space
Don't let lack of space put pay to your dreams of a home bar. If you're imaginative, almost any cupboard or cranny can be adapted, as this design by The Vawdrey House proves.
Hidden below stairs in an open-plan living room, it can be popped open and the party started once the kids are in bed. A pocket 'slide-and-hide' door allows for uninhibited access to the drinks fridge and prep bar, and fun modern lighting in the form of a neon sign makes it a focal point in the room.
6. The counter is crucial
"This may sound obvious, but the bar itself is key, somewhere for drinks preparation and to mix cocktails," says Rachel. "It is also a chance to create a little theatre for your guests, using beautiful glasses and garnishes to finish your drinks."
"Ample worktop space is essential for mixing drinks and serving guests, so opt for beautiful yet hardwearing surfaces like Caesarstone or quartz for durability and easy maintenance," says Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio, which designed this sleek, uncluttered bar area.
Be very selective about what actually sits on the bar itself. Try to keep it clear, save for a few particularly decorative bottles or perhaps a bowl of lemons and limes for garnish. "Open shelving or glazed cabinets are ideal for displaying glassware and bottles, while deeper drawers and cupboards keep mixers or bar tools neatly out of sight," adds Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport.
7. Echo the style and finishes of your kitchen
“A home bar works best when it feels like a seamless continuation of your kitchen ideas or living space rather than a standalone feature," says Richard Davonport.
"The aim is to create something elegant and usable without it tipping into novelty, and the easiest way to achieve that is by maintaining consistency in materials, finishes and craftsmanship. If your kitchen cabinetry is painted, carry that colour through to the bar. Match worktop materials or echo key details such as fluting or brassware, so the space feels anchored and cohesive rather than themed."
Three brilliant bar carts
With contemporary styling and cocktail evenings in mind, this drinks trolley has plenty of surface to ensure a mixology masterclass. A lustrous brass finished framework supports two elegant shelves of white marble to ensure drinking in style.
Bring a touch of Art Deco glamour to your entertaining space with the Sofia drinks trolley. You can roll it from room to room on its castors, and can pick or a gold or silver finish to suit your decor.
We love the beautiful antique finish of this gold bar cart by Cox & Cox. The shelves are mirrored glass so they'll reflect all your glimmering glassware back. Again, it's on castors so you can use it as hostess cart with the mostest.
8. Light it for every occasion
“Functionally, a home bar should include three key elements: good storage, durable work surfaces and a layered lighting design," says Richard Davonport, who is responsible for this stunning home bar. "Lighting should be used to define the mood –soft illumination under shelving or within cabinetry creates a sense of depth and atmosphere that is inviting rather than overpowering."
"Gentle, atmospheric lighting is key;' agrees Sophie Chapman. "Avoid harsh LEDs at all costs." While Rachel Usher tells us: "A drinks shelf or display that is gently back lit is a lovely way to showcase beautiful bottles and can look very considered and elegant."
To create these lighting layers, start with ambient lighting such as recessed lights or soft ceiling fixtures to set a dimmable base glow, then add task lighting under cabinets to illuminate the space where you'll mix drinks. Incorporate accent lighting –such as backlit shelves and small spotlights – to highlight bottles and architectural features, and finish with statement pendants, neon signs, or small lamps to add personality.
As for the light itself, use warm tones, separate controls or smart bulbs, and dimmers for every layer so you can quickly shift the atmosphere from bright and functional to warm and intimate.
With a Distinction in Furniture Design and Cabinet Making, and knowledge from his father Aubrey Davonport, an honorary member of the British Woodcarvers Association, Richard went on to set up his own workshops and later, the Davonport brand, which specialises in creating bespoke kitchen furniture.
9. Make plenty of space for glasses
"Glassware and bar accessories can quickly take up more space than you’d expect, so when planning your kitchen or entertaining space, incorporate dedicated storage for different glassware," says Alex Main, Director at The Main Company.
"From ornamental cocktail glasses to champagne flutes, built-in shelves and pull-out racks work well to keep everything organised and within easy reach – ensuring your bar feels curated and not cluttered.”
"Glass racks can add both function and design detail," says Sophie Chapman at The Vawdrey House, which designed this dramatic mirrored display. The infinity effect created by this mirrored splashback idea puts a real emphasis on the glassware chosen, allowing it make its own style statement.
10. Let glasses set the style tone
And talking of glasses as a style statement, yours could have more of an impact than you might think. Glassware can be a way to add a pop of colour to an otherwise neutral design, or to double down on a theme.
For example, a cocktail bar will require an array of speciality vessels, such as Martini, margarita and hi-ball glasses. In a down-to-earth 'pub' on the other hand, tankards and dimpled pint 'jugs' set the tone.
11. Contain it in a sideboard
"Compact off-the-peg or vintage pieces work beautifully in small spaces," says Sophie Chapman, and we tend to agree. You could even consider an easy DIY project: upcycling an old sideboard with interior fittings like glass holders and bottle racks, and topping it with a slab of marble or quartz for a very practical home bar.
That said, there are plenty of of 'ready-to-go' home bars that are easy to incorporate, like this stunning Quinn Bar Cabinet from Atkin & Thyme.
12. Include a separate drinks fridge
"If you regularly entertain, a dedicated drinks fridge is a must-have for effortless socialising as it doesn’t take up valuable space in your main fridge, whilst providing an area for friends and family to help themselves if needed," says Alex at The Main Company.
"Opt for a sleek, integrated fridge with a glass front that sits flush with your cabinetry for a seamless look. It's one of those finishing touches that elevates a home bar from convenient to luxurious.”
If you often serve wine, a specially designed wine fridge is worth considering. This will have features you won't find in a standard fridge or cooler. "Focus on the five essentials: steady temperature, controlled humidity, UV protection, fresh air and low vibration," says Tim Hutchinson, refrigeration UK divisional manager at Liebherr. And if you're not sure what these are, here's a flavour:
- Temperature protection: Extra sensors that guard against sudden temperature fluctuations that might affect the quality of your wine
- Humidity controls: Allow you to adjust the humidity in each section of the fridge to optimise conditions for particular varieties and vintages
- UV protection: Glass doors with tints and multi-layer glazing will stop harmful UV rays from ageing your wine
- Fresh air: Usually in the form of charcoal filters that help neutralise odours and prevent changes in taste
- Low vibration: All fridges contain a compressor to circulate cold air, but these can cause vibrations that disturb your wine. Look for fridges with special vibration insulation, so your wine can mature in peace.
Alex Main specialists in bespoke kitchens, reclaimed flooring and cladding, and bespoke furniture. Based in North Yorkshire, the 20,000 sq foot showroom and workshops were established in 1978 by Karan and Chris Main. Joined by sons Alex and Tom in 2004, the family business is one of the largest suppliers of reclaimed timber in the UK. Incorporating both traditional and modern designs, each and every project is handmade by The Main Company’s master craftsmen in its North Yorkshire workshops. The company now also has a London showroom in the Business Design Centre.
"For ultimate flexibility, look for models with multiple temperature zones, like our Vinidor range, which can be set from a cool +5°C to a warmer +20°C," Tim advises. "This means you can store red, white, and even champagne all in one unit, each at its ideal serving temperature."
"Adjustable wooden shelves are also a great feature, allowing you to store bottles of all shapes and sizes, including those larger magnum bottles."
Three stylish bar accessories to shop
What's your poison? Whatever you prefer, what fun to pour it from these fun decanters? Inspired by vintage apothecary bottles, the decanter set features three chunky glass bottles with glass stoppers and ornate poison labels.
The holder features a charming silver octopus, with its tentacles arranged in artful curling shapes that gently encompass your chosen bottle, keeping it safe and secure and sure to be admired by all.
A five-piece cocktail gift set from Bar Originale including a glass cocktail shaker with six 21st-century cocktail recipes such as Passionfruit Martini and Woo Woo. Use the markings on the side as a guide to measure out the ingredients.
13. Create a micro home bar on the wall
If you're incredibly stretched for space, all hope is not lost. Thank you Rockett St George for bring us this Wall-Mounted Black Metal Bar Shelf With Mirror. The arch is a very subtle Art Deco nod and there's a surprising amount of space here for six glasses, a few bottles, openers and maybe even a cocktail shaker or a cup full of straws.
14. Go the whole hog with your own wine cellar
“Tailored cabinetry allows you to integrate everything you need to blend seamlessly into your space," says Alex Main, Director at The Main Company. "Whether you want to create a hidden bar inside a cupboard or create a dedicated walk-in wine room with plenty of storage, bespoke joinery allows you to make the most of your space to create an elegant and practical bar that can be enjoyed all year round.”
This incredible wine cellar designed by Alex and his team can house hundreds of bottles in optimum 'cellar' conditions without them being hidden away in a basement. It's a great way to show off a serious collection.
15. Soundtrack your soiree
Another joy of a home bar is that you won't have to suffer your landlord's questionable music tastes – now you're the DJ. But it is likely you'll want to play some music whether you're enjoying a glass of wine or a cocktail (alcohol optional). And playing it through your tinny smartphone speakers is unlikely to cut the mustard.
"Ask yourself, 'How will sound work in the space?'" suggests Rachel. "We have created bars for clients who love playing vinyl records, so storage for LPs and space for decks was important. If you stream music, consider how speakers will be integrated so that they do not dominate the room."
Incidentally, we're featuring another simple home bar idea here – artwork. Posters 'advertising' your favourite beverages are a fun way to highlight your bar area and may inspire a room's accent colour – in this case, Aperol Spritz by Becki Gill (available framed and unframed), from The Northern Line.
16. Incorporate a wet bar
You might think you can get by with an ice bucket and some bottled water, but adding a second sink and tap to your bar is more useful than it first seems.
"A boiling water tap, with filtered and sparkling water options, ideally integrated into a bar area, adds another layer of convenience," says Tom Howley, Creative Design Director of the eponymous bespoke kitchen company. "Guests can serve themselves, you save time on drink preparation, and it keeps the main sink area free for cooking and cleaning."
17. Site a bar close to your dining table
Given cocktails are generally served before dinner, wine during and digestifs after, it makes sense to store your drinks close to the dining table.
"Ideally, your bar should sit close to key entertaining zones – the dining area, living space or media room – so it feels naturally integrated into how you socialise," suggests Charlie Smallbone at Ledbury Studio. "Think about how people move through the space: you want it to feel connected but not in the way. In this Cotswolds kitchen design, for instance, the bar sits beside the dining table, allowing it to double as a serving space when entertaining, while keeping drinks within easy reach."
18. Alcohol isn't everything
You don't have to enjoy alcohol to make a home bar worth your while. "An alcohol-free bar can still be elegant and joyful, perfect for sophisticated mocktails and family entertaining," says Sophie. "It’s about creating a moment – a sense of occasion – whether that’s a beautifully mixed zero-proof drink or simply a sparkling water with flair."
Instead of a bar, you might even prefer your own glamorous hot chocolate or coffee station, like this. one from Tim Higham and his design team at Higham Furniture, converted from a small cloakroom. Beneath is a concealed integrated freezer, but you could just as easily add a fridge for milk and other drinks. And if you or your guests change your mind and fancy something a bit naughty, you can always add a splash of Baileys to your cocoa or mix up an espresso martini.
19. Select seating with care
"Do not overlook comfort," says interior designer Rachel Usher. "The space should feel convivial and inviting. Include bar stools, accent chairs, perhaps even a small sofa, and definitely plenty of small drinks tables that can easily be moved around. You will never regret having enough places for people to set their drink down."
FAQs
Where's the best place to site a home bar?
"Place it wherever it makes sense within the flow of your home and its architecture," suggests Rachel Usher. "It could be in a basement, in an entertainment room in the garden, or simply within a nook under the stairs. Every home is different, so the best location is the one that feels natural – somewhere people want to gather."
Sophie Chapman of The Vawdrey House is a little more specific: "In open-plan homes, placing the bar between the dining and living areas creates a natural flow for both daily use and entertaining," she says. "In more traditional layouts, a lounge or formal sitting room works well, bringing a sense of occasion to the space."
"The best place for a home bar is within the spaces that lend themselves to socialising with friends and family – so this could be a kitchen, dining room or living area for example," suggests Alex Main.
Of course, wherever you pick, it's probably helpful if it's somewhere with a good light source. Easy access to – or the ability to install – plumbing will also be key if you're planning a wet bar. Siting your bar on an outside wall, for example, will make this easier if existing plumbing isn't available.
How much space do you need for a home bar?
"A home bar can be incorporated into any size home, as long as it works for you," says Alex Main. "From a bespoke zone in your living room with tailored cabinetry and a drinks fridge, to a few simple but beautiful shelves on your kitchen wall or a classic drinks trolley in the corner of a room, a bar can be set up easily no matter your space."
"A home bar often acts as an area you want to show off so aim to incorporate a few striking details which make it stand out – even if the bar is on the smaller side. From glass shelves to an eye-catching backsplash to display your bottles, accentuating your collection gives it a boutique bar feel at home."
How do I stop my home bar from looking tacky?
"A home bar does not need to look tacky any more than any other room in your home," advises Rachel Usher. "Think of it less as a place to be showy and more as an opportunity to curate something emotive and moody."
“For a home bar that feels refined rather than tacky, keep it simple and well-considered," says Josh. "Choose materials and finishes that reflect the rest of your interior, whether that’s pale wood, marble or brushed metal."
"Avoid anything too flashy; subtlety always looks more sophisticated," he advises. "A few carefully chosen bottles, elegant glassware and a clean, well-styled surface will make a far stronger impression than something overly decorative. Treat the bar as part of the room’s design, not an add-on.”
However you style it, a home bar is an invitation to unwind in your own way. And that can only be a good thing. However, if cocktails or craft ales aren't your thing, why not create a cosy coffee station or a small library snug instead? They're spaces that serve the same spirit of daily indulgence, and without the possibility of a hangover!
