Raising Spirits in 2021: Ideas for Home Bars

Throughout 2020, social activities became homebound. As we move into 2021, the home bar shows no signs of signs of slowing down as the new night out. From sipping boozy concoctions to toasting beverages fit for teetotalers – it’s the space that sets the mood. It doesn’t matter if you have a little nook or an entire room; here are three home bar interpretations to inspire your spirits all year. Here’s a toast to 2021! 

Reinvention

Forget new. Interior Designer with Design Associates, Meg Schucker, saved a client’s cherished armoire that risked being downsized out of a space. By cleverly adding shelves and an interior light she converted it into stately bar. Come cocktail hour, just open the doors and enjoy. Consider stringing some festive interior lights for extra flair. 

Try it: If a wardrobe is too big, how about a credenza with a fun tray on top to hold napkins or bottles? Smaller yet: a side table with enclosed shelves.

Statement Style

Here’s a spectacular bar whose rustic appeal comes from the use of multiple pieces of barn and palate wood. Overhead is a DIY “chandelier” constructed of timber from a family barn. 

Try it: Rustic décor touches (think barnwood signs, antlers, or old metal accents) channel your home’s inner mountain chalet. Add some pine boughs and white twinkling lights to set the mood of a starry sky or sparkling snow for wintertime perfection. 

Outdoor Nation

True to pandemic form, make it an experience by taking it outside! A highly visible outdoor space extends the indoors to the out, when outfitted for living. String outdoor lights, pipe in some music and add a lighted tree. In winter, heat is essential. Consider an outdoor firepit, chimnea, standard outdoor heater, or even a pile of cozy blankets. 

Try it: Small spaces work too! Think of a townhome’s patio or an apartment’s balcony for extra cozy appeal. Candles can also help warm the soul, if not the air.