4 minute read
REBIRTH OF THE DOMESTIC BAR
By Becky Smith
The concept of the home bar first became popular in the 50s when men returning home from the war began to move their families to the suburbs. Their pride and joy was the basement bar. It wasn’t until the 60s and 70s we saw the birth of the cabinet bar, and though today’s popular home bar options are not hidden in the record player, the television, or a globe, cabinet bars are becoming very popular again. The man caves fashioned after their predecessor — the basement bar — are still popular, but the rising trend is easy-to-access bars located right in the heart of the home!
THE BAR CART
The easiest way to incorporate a home bar is with a bar cart. These have become very popular and can be found in just about any style and price point. The bar cart is perfect for more personal use and smaller spaces because it adds functionality as well as additional storage. Keeping on hand the homeowner's favorite nightcaps with the proper drinking glasses is all it needs to supply. With such a variety of design options, the bar cart is a great way to add convenience and beauty to any room. Current trends have also accepted the idea of turning alcohol bar carts into coffee bar carts, which is a great way to free up counter space or create more storage in the kitchen.
THE BAR CABINET
More and more furniture manufacturers are offering larger bar cabinets. A cabinet offers more room for a fully stocked bar, multiple bottles of wine, glassware, and accessories. If your space has room for a larger bar, you will also get the benefit of closed cabinet space, and possibly a dramatic addition to your room design. Although this is a more expensive option than the bar cart, you can see the advantages are well worth it.
THE BUILT-IN BAR
If you're ready to commit, the built-in bar is the way to go with the transformation of a room in your house into your new favorite bar. Larger built-in bars can accommodate a sink, ice maker, wine cooler, and refrigerators. The perfect way to make your home feel high-end and lavish. Even a smaller built-in bar can incorporate one or more of these amenities and is an elegant way to display your fancy glassware collection and bar tools.
FOR HER
For all the ladies out there looking for something a little more glam, there is something for you too. There are some pretty savvy companies, that recognize a girl sometimes needs a special spot in her bathroom, bedroom, or closet. This stunning revolving door drink cabinet by Wildwood, is a perfect addition to these small and special spaces.
Whether your style is a modern take on the Prohibition-era speakeasy, or you are looking for a classy bar design with floating shelves to liven up the family room, a home bar is a gorgeous addition to any room. And the great news is, you do not need a lot of space to set up an amazing home bar that is perfect for entertaining. n
BECKY SMITH is an interior designer and founder of The Linen Duck, a retail boutique in downtown Columbia. The retail boutique and design center carry a selection of found objects, current trends in upholstery, beautiful bedding, unique lighting and accessories, special gift items, as well as ladies’ apparel and jewelry.
