Bar Ideas for the Home

Make your bar a decor focal point with these tips

By Josienita Borlongan

Photo by iStockphoto.com

Having cocktails at a bar or restaurant can be a loud and expensive experience. But entertaining at home can offer a relaxing location while cutting down on going-out expenses. A home bar is one way to enjoy a drink or two with friends while watching a game, playing cards or just enjoying each other's company. Choose a design that will suit your needs, budget and style.

L-Shaped Sports Bar

Build a state-of-the-art bar that is similar to those you find at sports bars and nightclubs. Buying a ready-to-assemble bar from manufacturers can save time; however, building one from scratch gives you more control over the design. Choose the L-shaped sports bar ranging from 6 to 12 feet long, depending on the space you have. Build an L-shaped sports bar that allows you to have more people seated together. Place a flat screen TV on the wall adjacent to the bar. Add a drink dispenser, beer tap, and neon signs and lights for an authentic bar vibe.

Freestanding Bar

Purchase or build a freestanding bar that you can move anywhere you want to use it. Use it indoors or outdoors. A freestanding bar can be as simple as adding a pub table and chairs. Using a freestanding bar that you can roll away for easy storage is a good way to entertain when space is at a minimum. Choose a drop-leaf design that you can use for another purpose when not entertaining. Designs vary from simple straight bars to the more elaborate ones complete with cabinets and drawers for storing bar necessities.

Bar Cabinets

Use a bar cabinet if you prefer not to expose your drinks and bar equipment when not in use, There are different styles and finishes of bar cabinets that will complement any design scheme. Choose a bar cabinet that has doors that you can fold and slide in for easier access to drinks. Add built-in wine racks and drinking glass storage systems to stay organized and recessed cabinet lighting to keep the area properly lit. Adding mirror backings can make the bar seem bigger and can add a sparkle when the lights are on. Close and lock the doors when done to keep the young ones from reaching the alcohol.

Tiki Bar

Commonly used outdoors, a tiki bar can make you feel like you are entertaining in paradise. Or place a tiki bar indoors for a kitschy vibe that's fun for parties. Use colorful drinking glasses, coasters and accessories to add visual appeal -- and don't forget the tropical libations.