Designing and Outfitting your Own Personal Wet Bar

Since the weather fluctuates so wildly in Dallas, you may find yourself entertaining indoors more often than not. A thoughtful host knows to offer a drink before (and after) dinner, so having a home bar is a must for those who regularly have company. To simplify your search for bar essentials, we've scouted the best finds in the Dallas Design District.

Bar Cart

If you want a stylish piece of furniture that goes where the party is, a bar cart is a great choice. Visit McGannon Showroom to find one decked out with all of the basics or Again and Again for a unique mid-century find. The bar cart is also a good option for those who don't let their square footage affect their social calendar.

Sink

Or maybe you do have the room to spare and a wet bar is more your style? With more than 40 product lines from leading brands, TKO Associates can help you find a sink with both function and finesse. Whether it's stainless steel or sealed hardwood, your prep sink will make cleanup more convenient.

Bar Facade

Why not go all out and build a bar top complete with stool seating? Check out Ann Sacks for a sleek, custom design. This option gives you the most space and would be ideal if you have an entertainment room or outdoor terrace/patio to devote to the purpose.

Glassware

Once you have the structure decided, you'll need to equip the space with classic glassware. McGannon Showrooms likely has just what you're looking for with its curated collection of home furnishings, lighting, fine art and unique one-of-a-kind items.

Wine is one thing, but no bar is complete without tumblers. Find a whole set at Bernadette Schaeffler, where you can custom-order hand-etched crystal glassware made through a centuries-old Bohemian Czech tradition. You can also pick up a few matching decanters to let your booze breathe in style.

Mixing Set

If you plan to mix drinks like a pro, a few tools of the trade are necessary: a jigger, shaker, strainer, bottle opener, corkscrew and ice bucket with tongs. New to mixing? It may take some practice, but you'll graduate from bartender to mixologist in no time.

Spirit and Cellar Essentials

With hard liquor, make sure you stock the basics: vodka, gin, rum, tequila and whiskey. It wouldn't hurt to have these on hand, as well: bourbon, vermouth and scotch. Finally, keep a supply of juices, sodas, tonic water and bitters for mixing.

As far as wine, if you had to pick only five types to keep in the cellar, cover your red and white bases and go with Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Merlot, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

Whether you're in the mood to make a Tom Collins, a gin sour, a mojito or a Bloody Mary, having a wet bar is the first step to learning the trade and keeping your guests satiated. The Dallas Design District is the place to find all of the tools you need to build your own personal bar, whether it's conveniently mobile or firmly planted in granite and wood.