So you’ve got that empty space in the basement that’s been begging for a home bar for years. Home bars are a great investment that can increase the market value of your home, but if they’re not done right they can also be a problem. Here’s an overview to help get you started on your home bar project.
First, you need a plan. Assess the space you’ll be using taking into consideration the total amount of square footage, access to other parts of the house, current natural lighting, and the amount of construction that might be needed. Do a mock layout using a computer remodeling program, or even just on paper if you prefer the simpler way of doing things, then ask friends and family for their ideas.
When it’s time to build, consider the ambiance you’re trying to create when choosing materials. If you like dark and rich, there are plenty of gorgeous wood materials for the cabinetry, stools, wall, and the bar itself. Woods range in color and grain from dark cherries and mahoganies to lighter oaks and maples. If you can’t afford solid wood there are laminated products which don’t look as rich but are substantially less expensive.
Those with more modern tastes might like to incorporate stone or brick elements in their design. Concrete-based “faux stones”, which were quite popular in the 80s, are making a comeback in home remodeling projects, especially those centering around the fireplace or bar. Just remember, the new catchphrase for stone and brick is “minimalist”. These elements can be overpowering if you use too much or put them in the wrong place. Be careful in your application.
Probably the most important element for the perfect bar is lighting. Avoid recessed lighting as it tends to look less inviting and quite mechanical. This is a bar after all, not the Pardons Canada office. Track lighting works well because the individual lights can be moved, pointed, and rotated to give some very interesting effects. Be sure to use dimmer switches and soft bulbs for a more intimate atmosphere. If you’re looking for a little extra flair, remote control lighting systems originally designed for exterior applications can do wonders for the home bar. And of course, make sure you budget a few hundred dollars for a neon sign or two.
If you’re a sports fan, than what better place to host a game than at your very own bar. If you have a large enough space (and budget) you can really impress your friends with multi viewer screens, of course, one decent sized flat screen will do as well.
Finally, if you trick out your bar with a theme it tends to be more attractive to visitors, not to mention allowing you to display whatever turns you on. Whether it’s your favorite sports team, a hobby, a foreign country you’ve visited, or something else, your home bar is a place where you should feel right at home.
Cheers!
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