The home bar has long been a popular amenity among luxury homeowners. Whether crafting your favorite cocktail on a quiet evening or hosting a small get-together with friends and family, there are many reasons to enjoy having a fashionable and functional space for making drinks. While some people want the full experience with a serving counter and barstools, others prefer a simple wet bar to meet their needs. For those who fall into the latter group, here are the essential features to ensure you have everything you need.
Running Water
Of course, there has to be a sink in order for it to actually be a wet bar, so the most important thing is to make sure you have running water—otherwise it’s a dry bar. The primary purpose of having a sink is that it makes it easier to clean glassware without going all the way to the kitchen. It’s also more convenient for tending to any spills and keeping the area clean in general.
Refrigeration
An under-counter refrigerator is perfect for ensuring that everything you need is kept at serving temperature without requiring much space. Depending on your personal preferences, you may want a beverage refrigerator for sodas and juices or a wine cooler to store a few bottles that are ready to be opened.
Ice Maker
Running out of ice is a surefire way to put a damper on the evening and, sometimes, a few ice trays in the freezer just can’t keep up with demand. If you want to avoid that situation altogether, an ice maker is the way to go. There are plenty of compact models that can easily fit either under or on top of the counter.
Counterspace
If you’re a passionate mixologist, chances are you’ll appreciate having enough room to mix, muddle and stir the perfect libations. Whether you’re slicing garnishes or shaking up different ingredients, ample counter space will make it feel like a proper station for preparing cocktails.
Storage
Cabinet space is important if you want to have all your favorite ingredients on hand, as well as the essential tools. Make sure you have space for a barware set and a few different types of glassware to make it a truly functional wet bar.
