Updating an old basement bar can be a fun, rewarding, and cost-effective DIY project. This list of easy tips will help you modernize your home’s entertainment center:
1. Paint The Walls – Start your project with a new coat of paint. Choose a bright, modern color for a more inviting atmosphere.
2. Replace The Bar Countertop – Replace the old countertop with a new material. You’ll find durable and affordable options like laminate, stone, or quartz.
3. Add Bar Stools – Give your friends and family a place to kick back and enjoy. Choose upholstered bar stools with a modern style for added comfort.
4. Change Lighting – Refresh the basement bar’s lighting with a few new fixtures. Consider pendant lighting, chandeliers, or track lighting to create a cozy vibe.
5. Install Games – You’re not limited to just beverages in a basement bar. Install a pool table, dart board, or an old school arcade machine to add some fun.
6. Accessorize – Spice up the space with bright glassware, attractive display pieces, and a cool jukebox with classic tunes.
Updating an old basement bar is an easy and fun way to modernize your home’s entertainment area. With these tips, you’ll have the perfect place to host friends and family for years to come.
How can I decorate my basement bar?
Decorating your basement bar can be a fun and creative way to express your individual style. When decorating your bar, you will want to choose items that enhance the look of the bar as well as make it a comfortable gathering place for friends and family.
One way to do this is to start with a vintage bar cabinet to store your barware and liquor. You may want to choose a piece of furniture with a classic look that coordinates with other decor in your basement.
If you don’t want to invest in a piece, look for baskets and shelves to hang on the walls to provide creative storage.
Next, choose lighting and wall decor to enhance the overall look of the space. Consider a wall hanging, mirrors, and strings of lights to create an inviting atmosphere. You might also consider installing a flat-screen TV, providing a spot to watch sports and movies.
Don’t forget to add furniture such as barstools or seating area to the bar. You could even consider a couple of comfortable couches and a coffee table to offer extra lounge areas for guests. Accenting the furniture with throw pillows and small tables can help make the area look more inviting.
Add color, texture, and character to space with fabrics, artwork, and other interesting accents. Consider adding artwork with a witty quote that reflects your sense of humor as well as area rugs to help define the space.
Finally, you’ll want to stock your bar with glasses, mixers, syrups, and other accessories. Place these items on shelves or in cabinets so your space remains organized and efficient.
When decorating your basement bar, the possibilities are endless. Have fun getting creative with the space and inviting friends over to sit back and enjoy the atmosphere.
Does a basement bar increase home value?
Adding a basement bar to a home can potentially increase its value. It can be an attractive feature for potential buyers, especially if it is designed in a stylish and attractive way. The basement space can provide ample room for entertaining and for socializing, as well as extra storage space for items.
Additionally, a basement bar can add to the overall potential of a space, allowing homeowners to make the most out of their living area.
However, the impact adding a basement bar will have on a home’s value depends on several factors. These include how the bar is designed, how energy-efficient the space it is, and how livable it is. If the bar is not well-insulated, it could mean less energy savings than with an energy-efficient bar.
Similarly, if the bar is not well-designed and comfortable, it may not add as much value to a home as it could. Additionally, if the bar is not well-ventilated, it could lead to an uncomfortable and odorous atmosphere.
Ultimately, the decision to add a basement bar comes down to the homeowner. Though it can potentially add value to a home, there are many other factors to consider before making this investment.
Are home bars outdated?
No, home bars are not outdated. In fact, they have been growing in popularity in recent years due to their convenience, cost-effectiveness, and overall aesthetic value. Home bars can offer the ultimate home entertainment experience and are the perfect space for hosting friends and family.
They also provide a great opportunity to display your favorite spirits, mixers, and garnishes. Furthermore, they can be customized to fit the style and design of your home, segueing into your home décor seamlessly.
With advances in home technology, home bars can become media hubs also, not just a place for drinks and conversation. Home bars are here to stay, offering comfort and convenience to people who enjoy entertaining at home.
What can I do with an old built in bar?
An old built-in bar can be repurposed in a variety of creative ways! One idea is to remove the bar top and use the space as a mini-office area, complete with a desk and bookshelves or other storage units.
If you have a large enough space you could even keep the bar and use it as a desk or workspace, allowing you to use the extra storage space beneath the bar for office supplies.
You could also transform it into a breakfast nook or small kitchen area. Replace the bar top with a dining table, and add a few chairs to create a cozy place to eat.
Alternatively, you could add a few bar stools and turn it into the perfect place for entertaining! Set up a beer fridge and some shelving units for glasses and other bar necessities. It’s perfect for parties or just hanging out with a few friends.
No matter how you choose to repurpose your old built-in bar, it’s sure to be a unique and stylish addition to your home.
Should I put a bar in my basement?
Whether or not you should put a bar in your basement really depends on a variety of factors. If you entertain frequently and have the space to do so, installing a bar in your basement could be a great addition.
Whether you want a fully stocked bar to serve drinks or simply a place to sit down and relax with friends and family, having a bar in your basement could be a great way to socialize in the comfort of your own home.
In terms of design, you can create a custom bar to match your style and the aesthetics of your basement. You can install cabinets, counters, and even a sink to make the experience complete. Make sure that you hire a professional or contractor if you want to create a comprehensive bar in your basement.
Doing it yourself could result in mistakes and higher costs.
You’ll also need to consider the available space in your basement and whether or not a bar is feasible. You may need to make structural changes if you want to install a larger bar. You should also factor in the cost associated with installing a bar in your basement and set a budget that works for you.
Depending on the materials and fixtures you choose, a bar could cost anywhere from a few thousand to tens of thousands to properly install.
Ultimately, installing a bar in your basement is a great way to personalize your home and add a wonderful gathering place for friends and family. However, it would be best to consider all factors involved before you make this decision.
When were home bars popular?
Home bars have been popular for centuries, going as far back as Ancient Egypt. In the Middle Ages, the upper classes would often have a dedicated area for entertaining guests with drinks. This was known as the “Great Hall” and was often the focal point of a medieval castle.
Home bars continued their popularity into the 17th and 18th centuries, and in the 19th and early 20th centuries they became more accessible as families with increasingly disposable incomes began to follow the trend.
In the United States, between the repeal of Prohibition in 1933 and the mid-20th century, dedicated home bars filled with all the necessary equipment for making cocktails, punches, and other drinks began to appear in many homes.
This was a time when hosting a home bar was considered a sign of wealth and success. After this period, home bars began to become less popular, as Americans stuck to simpler drinks and eating meals out instead of hosting long events at home.
However, in the past decade, home bars have come back into vogue, as more people are moving to craft beers and cocktails. 2019 saw a big surge in the popularity of home bars, as millennials began to embrace them as a space to host larger gatherings, as well as a creative outlet for making new drinks and cocktails.
How do you get rid of a wet bar?
Getting rid of a wet bar can be an intimidating process, but with proper planning and preparation, it is possible to do it safely and effectively.
The first step is to disconnect the water, gas, and electricity supplies. Doing this will ensure none of the utilities are active and will both keep you safe and help make the process of removal run more smoothly.
You’ll want to turn off the main waterline and the gas line, unplug any appliances or other devices, and shut off any breakers connected to the wet bar area.
Next, you will want to unmount any appliances, like a refrigerator or dishwasher, and remove any cabinetry, shelving, and décor. If you’re keeping any of the items, you can begin to dismantle and move them.
As you remove these items, you can also begin to remove the existing wet bar countertop, the sink, and any other necessary components.
Depending on the project, you may need to break apart the existing wet bar with a sledgehammer or other tool. When doing this, it’s important to use caution and wear personal protective equipment like safety goggles, gloves, and a dust mask.
As you continue, be sure to dispose of any debris and additional materials responsibly.
Lastly, clean and paint the area to match the rest of the room. This will help finish the project and and will make the area look freshly new.
What’s the point of a wet bar?
A wet bar is a great addition to any home. It enables you to serve alcoholic beverages when entertaining guests, while also providing a place to store liquor and barware accessories. It’s an ideal conversation area and can bring a sense of style and sophistication to any home.
The addition of a wet bar can also add resale value to your home as it is seen as a desirable feature for potential buyers. A wet bar is usually equipped with a sink, small refrigerator, and plenty of space for storing glasses and bottles, making it convenient and easy to clean up after guests.
Depending on the size and space available, you can also include a mini-bar setup that allows guests to serve themselves cocktails. Wet bars are versatile and provide more options than just simple drinks—you can also add snacks and food to any entertaining event.
With the right accessories, a wet bar can become a unique and stylish addition to your home.
What is a wet bar vs dry bar?
A wet bar and a dry bar are two types of bars that are used for entertaining friends and family. Wet bars are traditional bar setups with a sink for running water, a refrigerator for chilling drinks, and other supplies.
Dry bars are different in that they don’t have a sink and a refrigerator, but instead have storage and are typically used to house stemware, bottles of wine and liquor, and other bar supplies. A dry bar can be as simple as an armoire filled with drinks, to a custom built bar area with mini-fridges and flat screens.
They are typically smaller than wet bars and don’t need plumbing, so they’re great for small spaces. They are also often more decorative than wet bars so they can add a touch of style to a space. Whether you choose a wet or dry bar all depends on your entertaining needs and the size of your home.
What do you put on top of a bar cabinet?
The items you put on top of a bar cabinet will depend on your personal style and the type of entertaining you plan to do. Popular items often include barware such as carafes, decanters, and glasses, to showcase your favorite drinks.
You may also want to place a few cocktail books and recipe cards on top, to help you get inspired. Other decorative items may include candles, vintage trays and bar tools, such as a muddler and a jigger, to help you mix cocktails like a pro.
Finally, a few pieces of decor such as mini sculptures, vintage bottles and glasses, and plants add a visually pleasing element to the entire collection.
What does every basement bar need?
A basement bar needs several essential items in order to be fully functional and enjoyable. First, a quality bar table and seating area should be a priority. The table should be large enough to accommodate whatever size party is anticipated, and should be durable and sturdy.
Seating should also be comfortable enough to encourage people to lounge and relax in the space.
Second, a good selection of spirits and mixers is necessary for stocking the bar. Fundamentals like whiskey, rum, vodka, and gin should be available, and a selection of beer and wine should also be available.
Bitters, mixers, and garnishes should also be on hand.
Third, a comprehensive set of barware is needed to serve drinks, such as martini glasses, shooter glasses, wine glasses, highball glasses, and bar tools like shakers, strainers, muddlers, and jiggers.
Having quality barware will help elevate the experience and give guests a great experience.
Finally, it is important to equip the basement bar with adequate lighting, both in terms of task lighting for the bartender to make drinks, as well as ambient lighting for the overall atmosphere. Some lighting options include string lights for a laid-back atmosphere, or illuminated signs for a more classic bar feel.
How do you make a bar look cool?
Making a bar look cool takes a combination of elements. First, consider the colors and textures you use to decorate the bar. Pick colors that work together to create a visually compelling aesthetic. Utilize materials like marble, granite, or wood for a modern and sophisticated look.
Incorporate lighting that is dim or moody for a relaxed atmosphere. Create an area for music and special events to draw people in. Add seating with comfortable and aesthetically pleasing furniture. Incorporate artwork that is interesting and eye-catching.
Finally, set up an interesting drinks menu with interesting cocktails or craft brews and wines. All these elements come together to make a bar look cool and inviting.
What should be included in a bar?
When setting up a bar, there are several items that should be included for the best experience for guests. A bar should always have a choice of liquor ranging from beer, wine, and any spirits that are desired.
The bar should also have a selection of mixers and garnishes, such as soda, tonic, olives, fruit, and mint, to ensure all drinks can be made. Additionally, for guests who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, having entrees like juices, iced tea, and lemonade is essential.
Along with the drinks themselves, essential bar supplies and materials should also be purchased. These can include cocktail strainers, ice buckets, shakers, jiggers, bottle openers, blenders, corkscrews, and various glasses, such as tumblers, highball glasses, and beer mugs.
Furthermore, it’s important to consider the atmosphere of the bar and have décor such as furniture and wall art to set the mood. Lastly, a venue should also have enough staff to help serve drinks and manage the bar.
This can range from bartenders to servers who can help with refilling glasses and clearing away empty cups.
What Colour should I paint my bar?
When it comes to choosing a color for your bar, it really depends on the style and atmosphere you’re aiming to create. Neutral colors, like white, gray, and beige, can help your bar blend in and provide a more calming or subdued atmosphere.
If you’re looking to make a bold statement, warm colors like red, orange, and yellow can create an inviting and energizing atmosphere. If you prefer cooler tones, blues, greens, and purples could provide an inviting but more calming atmosphere.
No matter what style and atmosphere you’re after, make sure your color choice makes sense for your bar and reflects the type of establishment you’re trying to create. Consider complimenting furniture, art, flooring, and other design elements, too.
Finally, don’t forget to test out paint colors in person before committing to one. That way, you can get a better idea of how the color will look in different lighting and ensure the color you choose is just right for your bar.
How much space do you need for a bar in the basement?
The amount of space needed for a bar in the basement will vary, based on the size and shape of the area and what sort of bar you would like to install. If you’re envisioning a large wet-bar area complete with space for a sink, refrigerator, cabinets, and countertop, you may need to dedicate an area between 10-15 square feet.
You may also need additional space to accommodate bar stools or a seating area. If your basement is smaller, you may only need enough space for a basic mini-bar, which typically only requires a few square feet.
In order to decide how much space you need, you should make a list of the features you would like to include in your bar and then measure the basement to plan how much space these features would need.
Once you know what size and shape of bar you will be installing, you can decide if you need to modify any other existing features to make space for it.
How much square footage do I need for a bar?
The amount of square footage you need for a bar will depend on the size of your venue and the design you want to create. For example, a smaller bar may require 500 square feet of space, while a larger one may require up to 1,000 square feet, or even more.
When designing your bar, take into account the space for seating, storage for liquor and supplies, and potential for entertainment such as pool tables, darts, or a dance floor. Additionally, you should consider an area for service (such as a bar top, a sink, and items necessary for making drinks) and basic amenities such as bathrooms and an entrance.
If you plan to serve food, you will need to factor in a kitchen and the necessary equipment. You should also plan for any necessary permits, inspections, or other regulatory requirements. Ultimately, the amount of space you need for your bar will need to be determined based on your individual design.
How much space is needed for a small bar?
The amount of space required for a small bar will depend on the size and type of bar you are looking to create. Generally, it is recommended to have a minimum of 8-10 feet of width and a minimum of 6-8 feet of depth to allow for adequate space to move around and easily serve guests.
It’s important to consider the number of people that you plan to accommodate when choosing the size of your bar. For example, if you will be serving 12-14 people, then you may need a bar of approximately 10 feet long and 5 feet wide.
If you plan to serve more than 14 people, you may need a slightly larger space.
Additionally, there may be additional considerations depending on the type of bar you plan to create. For example, if you plan to install a wet bar, you will need to have enough space for the plumbing and drainage elements, as well as proper ventilation.
If you plan to install a full-service bar, you will need to factor in space for storage, a refrigerator, ice maker, and other appliances.
In summary, the amount of space needed for a small bar depends on the size and type of bar you plan to create, as well as the number of people you plan to accommodate. Therefore, it is essential to carefully plan out your bar space before beginning any construction.
How tall should a basement bar be?
When selecting a height for a basement bar, there are several factors to consider. The ideal bar height should be based on how you plan to use the bar. For example, if you plan to entertain guests or host parties, the bar should be tall enough to accommodate standing guests.
Generally, this height is around 42 inches. On the other hand, if the bar is primarily used for sitting, comfortable bar stools should be used to accommodate that. A lower bar height of around 36-40 inches is recommended to enable bar top seating.
As a general rule of thumb, allow a minimum of 10-12 inches for knee clearance between the bar top and the bar stools for optimal comfort. Additionally, consider the height of who will be using the bar, such as yourself, family members, friends, and so on.
This will help you decide what would be the most comfortable and enjoyable height for all.