Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or want to gather your nearest and dearest for a night in, it's time to get the drinks flowing! And what better way to serve up drinks to impress than from your very own home cocktail bar?
With a well-stocked home bar, you can enjoy all your favorite cocktails without leaving the comfort of your living room, and you can wow your guests at your next gathering with bar-standard drinks — or some special concoctions of your own creation. Home bars also look very stylish, and no matter if you have a large space to work with or a small one, there are plenty of home bar ideas you can try that will help you celebrate in style.
In this guide, you'll find out everything you need to know to help you stock and style your own home bar. We'll cover:
home bar essentials
A good home bar should have everything you need to make stunning cocktails, as well as beautiful glassware to serve it in. Below are some home cocktail bar essentials you may want to include.
tools.
- Cocktail shaker: There are three different types of cocktail shaker: A cobbler shaker, a Boston shaker, and a French shaker. A cobbler shaker is one of the most common types you'll see and comes in three pieces, with a lid and a built-in strainer. A Boston shaker is the type you'll usually see in bars, with two cups that fit together. A French shaker is a mix between the two and has a lid like the cobbler but, like the Boston, has no strainer.
- Jigger: A small, double-sided tool used to measure drinks.
- Bar spoon: A long teaspoon used to mix and layer drinks.
- Cocktail strainer: Used to strain the liquid from a cocktail shaker.
- Muddler: Used to crush herbs, fruits, or sugar cubes for cocktails.
drinks.
A home bar wouldn't be complete without some drinks, so make sure it is fully stocked before your next party with some cocktail basics. Starting off with a few essentials is best, as you can easily build your collection as you go. So, choose versatile ingredients that you love and grow your selection from there.
Some key cocktail ingredients include:
- Spirits and liqueurs
- Vodka
- Gin
- Tequila
- Vermouth
- Dark rum
- White rum
- Scotch whiskey
- Bourbon whiskey
- Mixers
- Tonic water
- Soda water
- Fruit juicer
- Ginger beer
- Garnishes
- Lemons
- Limes
- Oranges
- Mint
- Olives
- Maraschino cherries
- Extras
- Bitters
- Sugar syrup
- Sour mix
- Ice
glassware.
As well as having a variety of bar tools, you may also want to invest in a selection of glasses to serve your fabulous creations in. Different drinks are suited to different glasses, and the style and shape of the glass can help to bring out the flavors and aromas of the beverage to elevate its flavor. And, while you don't need to have every glass in every shape on your home bar, it's a good idea to have a few essential styles, including:
- Large and small tumblers: Often called highball and lowball glasses, these are some of the most versatile styles around. Traditionally, small tumblers are used to serve whiskey-based drinks or drinks that are muddled or mixed in the glass. Large tumblers are used to serve 'tall' drinks — those that have a high proportion of non-alcoholic ingredients, such as soda water. These glasses can also be used for water, juice, or soft drinks.
- Wine glasses: Wine glasses are available in two different sizes to suit red and white wines, with red wine glasses having a slightly larger bowl than white wine glasses. This allows the red wine to aerate and opens up more of the flavors.
- Champagne glasses: Champagne glasses are best for sparkling wine and champagne-based cocktails and are available in two different styles: the flute and the coupe. Champagne coupes, also called a saucer, have a wider bowl, which opens up the flavor for a 'fuller' taste. A champagne flute is much thinner and is designed to be held by the stem. This keeps the wine cool and allows the bubbles to flow, which can enhance the aroma of the wine and elevate its flavor.
- Gin glasses: The large, round bowled glasses are best for serving gin and gin-based cocktails in. Here at Denby, we have a wide selection of gin glasses, champagne flutes, coupes, and wine glasses in our collection of glassware.
- Shot glasses: These glasses hold around 25ml of liquid and are used to measure small quantities of spirits or liqueurs. Shot glasses can also be used in place of a jigger.
- Martini glasses: These triangular glasses are traditionally used for serving martinis in but can also be used for Cosmopolitan cocktails.
As a basic rule of thumb, four of each glass type will add balance to your display, while making sure you have enough for everyone. Any extras can be stored in cupboards.
If you choose glassware in interesting designs, shapes, and colors, it can serve both as a functional piece and as stunning décor. We have a fantastic selection of glassware designed to suit some of our most popular tableware collections, including Imperial Blue glasses, Modus glassware, and more. These glasses will make a stylish addition to your home bar.
where to put a home bar
A home bar is best placed anywhere you'll be entertaining. Your dining room is a great option, as you can prepare cocktails and other drinks while guests are sitting at the table. Your living room and kitchen are also great options, and with the right styling and accessories, your bar can easily blend into the rest of your home décor.
In the summer, there's also the option to take your home bar outside. An outdoor side table would be a great place for your bar. But, if you have a bar trolley, then you can easily wheel this outdoors to bring the drinks to your garden party or BBQ.
home bar ideas
While you may think of a traditional built-in bar design when you think of home bars, there are so many other options available that take up less room and don't require any building work.
kitchen island bar.
If you have a kitchen island or breakfast bar, you can easily transform this space into a home bar. With a few stylish bar stools, some cocktail essentials and barware, and a few glasses, you can effortlessly convert this area into an entertaining space. Use trays to keep everything organized and together, so that you can use the rest of your worktop to whip up some magical cocktails.
If you don't have a kitchen island or breakfast bar built into your kitchen, you can still get this look with a free-standing breakfast bar. These are available in a variety of styles, from wooden options to sleek metallic designs, so you're bound to find one to match your kitchen.
bar cabinet ideas.
One stylish way to add a bar area to your home is by converting a cabinet or sideboard. You can get a variety of drinks cabinets that would be perfect for your home bar, but you could also convert an old sideboard, side table, armoire, or writing desk. For this look, try to use a cabinet with doors so you can leave them open when it's time to party, but have them closed for a sleek and clean look during the day.
Use your bar cabinet to hide away all your cocktail essentials, including bottles, tools, and any special glassware you won't use every day. If you have the space, stackable or tabletop wine racks will fit onto shelves and give you a neat place to lay your bottles. Under-cabinet glass racks provide the perfect storage solution for your stemmed glasses and make the most of your vertical space.
A similar alternative is to build cabinets and home bar shelving in an alcove or corner of your room. Stylish tiles, mirrors, or wallpaper can make for an effective backdrop to complement your glassware, tools, and accessories. For this option, you could also add a built-in wine fridge or a sink, so you don't have to venture into the kitchen to keep everyone topped up.
bar cart ideas.
If you're looking for a less permanent, more transportable option, then a bar cart could be the solution for you. Also called bar trolleys, this retro design has made a resurgence in recent years, and for good reason. These bars have a timeless, stylish appearance that makes the most of small spaces. And, because they have wheels, your drinks can be pushed around your home to wherever the party is.
The most popular options are gold art deco-style trolleys, but you may also find pared-back industrial styles, rustic rattan trolleys, wooden serving carts, and vintage globe bars. There's bound to be an option to suit your home.
Another creative option is to transform an art supplies trolley into a DIY bar cart, or to repurpose an old serving trolley. You can get a variety of matte and metallic spray paints that can instantly transform your trolley into a luxe bar cart to impress your guests.
home bar ideas for tiny spaces
Even if you only have a small amount of space to work with, you can still get all the luxury and decadence of a bar in your home. These small home bar ideas will help you bring the party into your space, no matter its size.
home bar shelves and drawers.
While you may not have the floor space for a home bar, you can make use of your valuable wall space with a home bar shelf. Utilise your existing open shelving or bookcase, or install one or two floating shelves above your kitchen counter, and decorate them with all your bar essentials, glasses, and accessories. Shelves with glass racks can help you double up on space and give you the perfect place to store stemmed wine and champagne glasses.
Installing your bar on a wall is also a great option to make use of any dead space that would otherwise go to waste, such as underneath staircases or sloping ceilings.
Alternatively, you could convert a deep drawer into a concealed bar, using drawer organisers and separators to keep everything in place. You may also wish to combine the two, storing your bottles in a drawer and showing off your stunning glasses and barware on a shelf above.
countertop home bar tray
If you don't have the wall space for a bar shelf, a countertop bar may be just the thing for you. You don't need lots of space for this option, just a small corner of your kitchen worktop or a sideboard. Keep it minimal by only laying out a few essentials, such as a cocktail shaker, a couple of your favorite spirits, and a beautiful glass or two. Serving trays can be used to corral everything into one place and keep things tidy.
home bar decor ideas and accessories
Home bars aren't just a place to store and prepare your drinks. They can also make a standout feature in your room with the right décor. Once you've found the perfect place for your home bar, it's time to get accessorising. These home bar décor ideas will give you plenty of inspiration to help you customise and style your bar cabinet, cart, shelves, or tray.
combine function with style
One of the easiest ways to dress up your home bar is by choosing standout pieces that are not only functional but will add to the overall look of your bar. This is a great option to decorate smaller home bars. Think about what kind of style you want to create, and choose interesting tools, glasses, and accessories to match.
Colorful glassware in beautiful shapes and designs will transform the look of your bar. Champagne coupes will add a vintage, art deco vibe, while crystal glasses and decanters will add a touch of luxury. For a modern look, choose straight-sided champagne and wine glasses such as those in our Natural Canvas or Porcelain collection. Glasses with colored stems and ombre designs will add a splash of color and individuality to your home bar.
Bold accessories can also add to the overall style of your bar, so look for bright and cheerful cocktail shakers in interesting shapes and patterns. Jars of paper or reusable straws are another functional piece that can add to your home bar décor. Keeping a bowl of fresh lemons or limes will make a simple but effective accessory, and it means you always have some on hand ready to pop into your drinks come party time.
Remember that your bottled drinks can serve a decorative purpose too. Keeping things simple and choosing a few bottles with interesting shapes and well-designed labels can instantly transform the look of your whole bar. Decanters can also add a touch of sophistication and are a great alternative to any bottles you don't want as part of your display.
Make room for plant life
Plants can add a hint of effortless style to any space and will look great sitting alongside your bottles and glassware. Place dangling plants, such as ivy, a string of beads, a string of hearts, or a string of nickels, on high shelves. Their leaves will hang down and soften the look of the whole bar. Meanwhile, small potted house plants such as succulents, a posy of flowers, or an ornamental display in a vase can add an extra little touch of greenery to low shelves or countertop bars.
Your decorative plants can be functional too. Small pots of mint, basil, rosemary, or lavender can add a subtle touch of scent and style to your home bar décor, and you can pick the fresh leaves to add straight into your cocktails.
Add a touch of sparkle
A home cocktail bar wouldn't be complete without a little bit of glitz and glamour. A few well-placed candles can make all the difference and will add a delicate glow while you're entertaining. Fairy lights create a magical look when draped over shelving and woven in between your accessories. Plus, they'll make your beautiful glassware sparkle. For a modern look, a neon sign can bring the party to your home bar or bar cart, letting everyone know that it's open for business.
Lamps are another great option to brighten up any home bar. Place a statement lamp on your bar cart, and you can use your cart as a side table when it's not in use.
Accessorise with artwork
Incorporating some artwork into the space above your home bar is a great way to inject a touch of personality, whether it's a chic illustrated print or a favorite family photo. Square frames are best for this, as they can offset the roundness of your glassware and bottles to create a balanced look.
Another option is to include small ceramic ornaments to the display, which can fill in any dead space and make your whole bar setup feel more 'you'.
Add your favorite books
Placing a few of your favorite books on your home bar is another fantastic way to incorporate a touch of personality into your setup. Books with attractive covers or an interesting coffee table book will add an extra dimension to the look, while cocktail recipe books will help you whip up a brand-new creation this party season. Place other accessories on top, such as plants and candles, to add some extra height and interest to your display.
Include seasonal touches
Any time of year is a cause for celebration, so why not add some seasonal decorative touches to your home bar? Simple additions such as a garland or a few baubles for a Christmas bar, some miniature pumpkins and squash for autumn, or some decorative eggs for Easter can bring your home bar into the new season. Consider adding decorations that can double up as cocktail garnishes too, such as a jar of candy canes for festive tipples or edible flowers for the spring.
Decorate for the occasion
Even if the occasion doesn't call for cocktails, you can still make the most of your bar. These home bar ideas are perfect if you want to go for an alcohol-free version or add your own unique twist.
Hot drinks bar: If you're a fan of hot drinks, then why not transform your home bar into a tea, coffee, or hot chocolate station? Lay out a selection of your beautiful teacups, mugs, or espresso cups, along with your favorite drinks. Coffee grounds, pods, tea bags, and hot chocolate poured into jars will add to the décor, plus any extra accessories such as ceramic coffee drippers, cafetières, teapots, and jugs.
Breakfast/brunch bar: Start your day off the right way with a breakfast or brunch bar. This works especially well for a bar cart, as you can wheel your morning meal into your bedroom for breakfast in bed. Set up a selection of tea or coffee, juice, and your favorite brunch or breakfast foods. If you're celebrating, add a couple of champagne flutes alongside a bottle of sparkling wine or a jug of mimosa.
Movie night bar: No movie night would be complete without a few snacks. Transform your home bar into a snack bar by laying out all your movie night essentials in large serving bowls, such as popcorn, sweets, and drinks. Stack a few cereal bowls and drinking glasses for everyone to help themselves to the selection.
Pamper bar: Treat yourself to a pamper session and convert your home bar into a beauty bar. This is a great idea if you're hosting a spa day for your friends and family, such as for a bridal shower. Lay out ramekins filled with homemade face masks and nail varnishes presented on trays. A few scented candles in soothing fragrances, such as freesia and jasmine, can help create the perfect spa atmosphere in your home. If you're using a bar cart or tray, why not take it into your bathroom for a relaxing night in?
Buffet bar: A home bar is always at the centre of a party, which is why the concept lends itself perfectly to a buffet. Serving dishes filled with your delicious recipes will fit perfectly on your home bar. Gather your usual barware and cocktails onto trays to keep everything organised, then add seasonal table decorations and a framed menu to finish off the look.
A glamorous home bar can be a great decorative feature in your home and the perfect way to impress your family and friends come party time. With these tips and home bar ideas, you'll be able to get the look in your space, no matter its size.
Now you have the home bar set up, it's time to start mixing your cocktails! You'll find plenty of recipe inspiration that will help you whip up some showstopping drinks in our cooking and baking section. Why not try out our Christmas drinks recipes or our selection of refreshing summer cocktails?Serve your delicious drinks in Denby glassware, which is not only highly durable but will look super stylish sitting on your home bar.