How to Build a Bar in a House

If your house is the center of the social circle to which you belong, then you probably find yourself entertaining the group quite often. If this is the case, building your very own bar in an appropriate area of the house would make the perfect addition to the various parties and gatherings you host. When you entertain on a regular basis, building a bar in your house can actually solve some of the pitfalls of being the popular hangout--a lack of storage for party essentials and the absence of a gathering space where people can linger. Read on to learn how to build a bar in a house.

Instructions

1. Decide where you will build a bar in your house. Most people opt to build the bar in the basement of their homes. Doing so makes the bar available when you want it but keeps it out of sight when you don't. If you don't have a basement or if you'd rather build a bar in a place that has more prominence in your house, you'll have to determine where such an addition makes sense for your home. An unused living room would make an ideal location for homes that have both a living room and a family room. Other homes may be more pressed for space and in this case devoting a portion of the dining room to the bar might make sense.

2. Clear the space that will soon become your bar. You'll need to look at a blank slate to get a good vision of how you'd like the bar to come to life.

3. Start with a mirror. You'll want a wall mounted mirror that runs the entire length of the wall behind the bar-to-be. Your local glass cutter or home improvement store can custom cut a mirror to fit your space. If your bar is going to be on the smaller side, you may also be able to find a framed wall mirror at a local home goods store that will fit the space.

4. Hang some shelving. You'll need storage for glasses, drink mixing tools and all of the spirits you plan to store in your bar.

5. Consider how you will store your glassware. Many home goods stores carry wine glass racks that mount underneath shelves. This is an excellent way to store glasses and a great way to economize your space. The hanging glasses will also add to the bar atmosphere you are trying to create.

6. Add the bar. The bar itself can be simple. Many people simply assemble a basic frame and staple floor length fabric to disguise what is underneath. Others get creative and use their old castoff furniture to act as the bar. You can purchase a home bar at your local home improvement store if you want something attractive in a hurry. If you don't mind spending the extra money, you can even hire a carpenter to custom build your home bar. Your choice will depend on your own carpentry skills and the budget you have set for the project.

7. Choose your favorite bar stools and place them around your bar. Be sure that the height of the stools correctly matches the height of your bar.

8. Go shopping for all of the barware you'll need for the drinks you most often make. While it would be nice to have the perfect glass for every drink, storing them all is less than ideal. A good starting collection will include six of each red and white wine glasses, basic well drink glasses, and beer mugs. Don't forget to pick up a caddy stocked with mixing tools as well as an ice bucket.

9. Stock your bar with your favorite and most often served beverages. Be sure to include some non-alcoholic beverages for those who prefer them.

Tips & Warnings

• Shop garage sales and flea markets for your bar decor. Both are great sources for old beer signs and various other bar appropriate decor.

• Don't forget to keep a stash of cocktail napkins on hand for guests.