Basements tend to be large unused spaces in a house. They have so much opportunity, but very few homeowners know what to do with it. What if that wasted space could become a mini bar for you and your friends to enjoy? Well, it can!
How do I start?
First, clear out the unused stuff that you may have thrown down there over the years. Find a public storage near me facility to store seasonal items (or the chairs you may want to use again) and donate (or toss) the rest. This will open up the room and give a great blank slate to work with.
Once the stuff is out of the way, you must look into the proper electrical and plumbing that would be needed.
What do I need to make a mini bar?
You need to have a bar surface of course! In addition a sink, fridge and cabinets would be useful to store the beverages, glasses and wash it all out without having to go back upstairs to your kitchen.
What kind of bar top is the best?
There are many options as far as the bar itself and the stools. Finding great bar options online is easy, and many sources will deliver to your house. Some of the better materials to use for the countertop include marble, granite, and slate.
Marble gives an elegant look to a bar, but does need a lot of maintenance and can be stained by wines. Granite is one of the best options because, unlike marble, it has little maintenance and just needs an occasional sealing to make this countertop last a lifetime. If you want a more modern look, slate is a great option. It is a resilient material with a grayish sleek finish.
Should I add a wine cellar?
Wine lovers everywhere know that wine is a staple in any bar. Luckily, basements make great wine cellars because they maintain a cooler temperature than the rest of the house. The ideal temperature is between 45 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be a great addition to the bar and will keep your friends coming back for more.
How can I design a bar?
The beauty is no one bar looks the same. There are many finishes and materials to decide upon. The first thing to think about is what will the bar be used for. If it is just for you and your loved one to go retreat after work then a small and simple bar would do just fine with a mini fridge to hold your favorite drinks. However, if you want this to be the local hang out bar, then a much larger and functional bar with a full fridge and wine cellar would be more your style.
It also depends on what look your house has and if you would like to continue with that theme or make it completely different. To get design ideas, there are great articles with a plethora of options for everyone.
No matter what your preferred drink is, a mini bar in the basement of your home can be a great addition.
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