The busy modern lifestyle has got us multitasking, with very little time to spare. It’s no wonder that in the past few years, there has been an increasing trend in home bars. The perfect home bar is no longer just the place to serve cocktails, it’s where you can also relax. It is great for entertaining and is the ideal hangout spot with friends when late night club and bar hopping is no longer an option. They allow you and your guests to enjoy a bit of bubbly fun in the comfort of your own home.

Let’s look at features and current trends in designing a home bar.

+Stools
Like any other seating areas, your stools must be comfortable. This is where the party chatter happens. Stools must be stylish, yet relaxing. Standard barstools are 30” high, and counters tools are 24”. They come in different finishes and styles, ranging from all wood to upholstered in leather or fabric, to low back to backless seats. If you’re unsure of the actual height of your bar table, consider adjustable swivel barstools as they have gas lifts that allows height adjustment, such as these Nitro Bar Stools from ZuoModern.

+Storage
Another important feature of a home bar- storage space as much as possible. This is to store your wine, alcoholic mixers, glasses, etc… Old armoires and bookcases make for awesome bars. Just a little paint here and there, and walaa! you got yourself a shabby chic home bar with a lot of drawers and shelving.

+Glassware
Home bar design is not complete without a variety of glassware, a blender, and other bar tools. Glam up your bar with beautiful glass decanters.  Be creative when selecting trays and coasters!

+Accents
Add conversation pieces on or around the bar to add personality. Interesting wall art or tabletop accessory will bring up the mood and encourage guests to have something to talk about.

If you don’t have the room for a sideboard or server, a mini bar or a bar-cart will do.

Create a home bar that fits your space best and then fill it with the best mixed drinks of your choice.

Speaking of, we’re sharing a favorite cocktail perfect for the summer- Tequila Sunrise, recipe courtesy of Drink Mixer.

2 msr tequila
orange juice
2 dashes grenadine syrup

Pour tequila in a highball glass with ice, and top with orange juice. Stir. Add grenadine by tilting glass and pouring grenadine down side by flipping the bottle vertically very quickly. The grenadine should go straight to the bottom and then rise up slowly through the drink. Garnish stirrer, straw and cherry-orange and enjoy!

*photos courtesy of Houzz.com & Google Images.