For many of us, ringing in 2021 looked considerably different than years passed. Rather than a lavish evening out on the town, counting down on the couch seemed to be the much more favorable approach. Beyond NYE celebrations, the global pandemic has put everyone in the position to spend much more time behind their home bar rather than at their go-to watering hole. That said, just because we may not be frequenting the bistros, taverns, and taprooms we enjoy so much, we do not and should not have to sacrifice the appealing ambiance our favorite spots boast. Read on for our five tips on how to have the best-looking home bar on the block.
Make a statement.
First and foremost, do what you can to create a ‘wow’ factor that really sets the space apart. Not only does this act as an instant conversation starter but can also help transport you from home to the bar or parlor where you may rather be. Wondering how to create said wow factor? For those ready, willing, and able to go the wallpaper route, look to the trendy coverings from Kravet, the supremely stylish selection from Schumacher, or the stunning hand-painted options from Gracie. If you’re dying to cover a wall but wallpapering is a tad too pricey, consider painting an accent wall as an alternative. For those working with an area that allows for it, make a statement with a backsplash. Rather than offering up an entire wall, a bold but beautiful backsplash fills the gap on the bar wall between the cabinets and/or a countertop, spanning the length of that countertop. To flawlessly pull this off, enlist the pros at either Ann Sacks or Renaissance Tile & Bath. Finally, for those in the market for a more budget-friendly, less permanent solution, statement art pieces are the answer. Find the perfect paintings or sculptures to complement your bar space at Laura Rathe Fine Art or Galleri Urbane, both of which currently have on-going exhibitions that you should catch while you can.
Accessories, accessories, accessories.
Similar to other spaces in your home, once the bones are in place it’s time to accessorize. Whether you subscribe to the ‘less is more’ or ‘more is more’ motto, you’ll find just what you need in the DDD shops + showrooms. Count on finding all the stylish essentials every bar needs (think bar tools, stem + glassware, decanters, shakers, ice buckets, and more) at Dahlgren Duck or Arteriors Home. If you’re looking to take the decor up a notch from there, consider adding items like a chandelier, lamp set, or slick stools, each of which can be sourced from Scout Design Studio. Finally, to really tie the space together, throw in a few finishing touches such as coasters, coffee table books, fragrant candles, or a fresh floral arrangement.
A+ add-ons.
After the basics have been accounted for, if space, budget, power, and/or plumbing permits, there are other add-ons to opt-in for that are sure to make your home bar the toast of the town. In addition to barstools, including other seating arrangements is ideal for those looking to gather with multiple guests for a considerable amount of time. Fortunately, Made Goods has a standout selection of lounge chairs and chaises, as well as cocktail and bar tables. Perhaps our favorite add-on’s depend on both power and plumbing. If the bar space in your home allows, we highly recommend installing plenty of refrigerated drawers and maybe even splurging on a specialty dishwasher designed for crystal and barware. With additions like these, you’re guaranteed to take your at-home bar experience to the next level.
Tight quarters? Bring in a bar cart.
Don’t allow tight quarters to cramp your style. If you’re working with a smaller space, a classic bar cart will more than suffice. For those looking for a simple yet chic style, we suggest one of the stunners from Jan Showers. Or, if you’re after a more intricate piece, check out the selection from Laura Lee Clark. Finally, don’t forget to adorn your chosen cart with the aforementioned accessories and add-ons available at select DDD shops + showrooms.
Stock up on basics.
Last but certainly not least, make sure to cover your bases by stocking up on all the essential spirits. Be ready to stir up anyone’s drink of choice by having at least one bottle of each of the six basic liquors — brandy, gin, rum, tequila, vodka, and whiskey. For an even sleeker look, transfer the liquors into glass decanters, or, if space permits, consider a refined cabinet, console, or buffet from Bungalow 5 to store all the bottles + display the accouterments. Then, just add wine + local brews (we’re partial to our neighbors at Texas Ale Project and Pegasus City Brewery) and consider yourself open for business.
Regardless of the space you’re working with or your personal bar style preferences, the Dallas Design District is home to all the shops + showrooms you need to achieve your ultimate vision. And, while we hope to soon be able to enjoy time spent out at our favorite establishments, for now, cheers to raising the bar for your own home bar!
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