Modern Matter Blog
5 Ways to Update Your Home Bar That Will Wow Your Visitors
Updating a bar in your home can be a fun and exciting project that will impress your guests and make your living space more stylish and functional. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or simply enjoy hosting friends and family, a well-designed bar can transform quiet gatherings into joyful celebrations. Raise the bar on entertaining and create a space that will wow your visitors with these simple tips.
1. Choose a focal point
When updating your bar, it's important to choose a focal point that will draw attention and create a cohesive design. This could be a statement piece of hardware in your cabinets, a bold color, or both!
Consider pairing your preferred knobs and pulls with a backplate to add unique dimension and style to your interior. If you are a fan of color, our selection of Custom Gemstone Hardware can add that extra touch of color that you are looking for.
Whatever you choose, make sure it complements the rest of your bar decor and creates a sense of visual interest.
Interior by Whitney Durham Interiors. Photography Lauren Chambers
Interior by Elaina Fagan Design. Photography Analicia Herrmann
2. Invest in quality glassware and tools
One of the keys to a successful bar is having high-quality glassware and tools. Not only do they enhance the aesthetic of your bar, but they also make it easier to create delicious cocktails. Consider investing in a variety of glassware, such as martini glasses, champagne flutes, and highball glasses. You'll also need a shaker, strainer, jigger, and other essential cocktail-making tools. Don't skimp on quality here—investing in well-made tools and glassware will pay off in the long run.
Interior by Euro Trash
Interior by Grey Joyner Interiors. Photography by Ashley Roberts
Interior by Traci Connell for the Kips Bay Decorator Show House Dallas 2021. Photography by Michael Hunter
3. Stock up on quality ingredients
Of course, a great bar is nothing without quality ingredients. Make sure you have a variety of spirits, mixers, and garnishes on hand to create a wide range of cocktails. Consider experimenting with new flavors and ingredients to create unique and memorable drinks. You can also showcase your creativity by making your own syrups, bitters, and infusions.
Interior by Kerri Pilchik Design. Photography by Jacob Snavely. Styling by Lucy Bamman
Interior by Charlotte Lucas for the Southern Living Idea House 2022. Photography by Laurey W. Glenn. Styling by Kendra Surface
4. Add lighting and ambiance
Creating the right ambiance is key to a successful bar experience. Adding dimmer switches, pendant lights, or under-cabinet lighting can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Including some fun decorative objects—we love our Sally Salamander Sit About or Tivali Cat Paperweight on top of napkins, will also add a quirky charm to your space and enhance the mood. Don't forget to incorporate music as well—a carefully curated playlist can set the tone for your entire gathering.
Interior by Booth Parker Style. Photography by Corry Frazier
Interior by Allison Abbott and Cashion Hill Design. Photography by Olly Yung
Interior by Allison Abbott and Cashion Hill Design. Photography by Heather Ison. Production by Whitley Adkins
5. Create a functional layout
Finally, make sure your bar is set up in a way that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Consider the flow of traffic and make sure your guests can easily access the bar.
Interior by Elaina Fagan Design. Photography by Analicia Herrmann
Interior by Whitney Durham. Photography by Lauren Chambers
