What To Consider When Creating A Home Bar So The Booze Flows With Ease

Many of us do more of our imbibing at home, which makes investing in a home bar worthwhile — it's a stylish addition and appealingly convenient as you can keep all of your beverage needs organized in one spot. However, to capitalize on that convenience, there are factors crucial to remember. Chief among them is the actual size of your bar, according to Artem Kropovinsky, principal of New York interior design firm Arsight Studio. He shared some expert design insight with Tasting Table.

"Start with [the] question, 'how will this bar be used?'" Kropovinsky says. "Is it more of a personal evening ritual or for entertaining guests? The answer will define everything, from lighting to lifestyle. The bar should not just look good, it should reflect your lifestyle." Before you get to choices like lighting or the most essential cocktail glasses, you need to know what size your bar will be to inform where you're putting it and how you're building it or shopping for an existing piece. The right size depends on whether you're planning to just mix drinks or want to have seating too.

"Standard bar height is about 42 inches, with bar stools around 30 inches high," Kropovinsky says. "If it's more of a counter-height bar, aim for 36 inches with 24- to 26-inch stools." For width, he adds, five feet should be the perfect amount for storage, a mini fridge, a sink if you want a wet bar, and space for prep.

Start with that standard 42 inches and try drink-prep motions to see how comfortable it is for you to pour bottles, muddle mint, and so on. If you're at an awkard angle, you may need to adjust the height for smoother movement. There are other considerations, too, like if you need to keep things out of reach of children or are addressing different physical needs. Similarly, start with that standard five foot width and make sure you have that space, then figure out if you need more depending on whether you'll have a refrigerator there or would like more seating.

Size impacts where your bar goes. Kropovinsky says, "A bar should feel like a natural extension of the space. Consider installing the bar between the kitchen and dining room; it will act as a visual bridge." Or, he suggests, "Use awkward space wisely. Consider installing the bar under the staircase. Even in a walk-in pantry or closet, a bar can find a great location for a moody speakeasy vibe." From there, Kropovinsky recommends prioritizing high-performance and tactile materials like "natural stone or quartz countertops with wood or fluted millwork for warmth and texture."

Complete the look — and make your mixology work easier — with lighting. Use pendant lights over the bar and LED lighting after taking the time to properly organize your home bar for added efficiency. Finally, it's time to decorate: Collecting vintage barware creates a chic look on a budget.