When I entertain guests in my teensy apartment, space is at a premium. So, I thought it would be fun to start brainstorming some creative ways to move things around for holiday parties this year, and these bars really got me thinkin’…
In small areas, its important to recognize an under utilized space in the house. Obviously this home has a large entryway, but even in a narrow hallway you could set out a small drink bar. Probably best suited for something straightforward like champagne cocktails, I think it’s a charming way to greet guests! Take their coat and hand them a flute! You’ll prevent congestion at the secondary bar area (if you have one).
For those of you with open kitchens, obviously the counter is a useful place for setting up nibbles, but I like the idea of actually creating a space that feels like a separate bar area simply by adding a mirror and a few trays! It also makes it convenient for putting out glasses to have guests help themselves to mixing their own favorite drinks. Sometimes the obvious choice is the best choice – just don’t make it boring! (You can even add some holiday swag to that mirror!)
And finally – my favorite idea – create a bar in a space that you won’t need for the evening. Like a closet. Yes, a closet. Granted, you won’t have this little wet bar setup, but this idea seems quite genius when you think about it. My linen closet would make for a perfect bar, and everything in it could easily be dumped into the bedroom for the evening.
In fact, I think I may have to try this one… which option would you choose? Or have you gotten creative with your entertaining set ups in the past? I’d love to hear!
*images: lonny // apartment therapy // house beautiful
I recently repurposed a downstairs bedroom as a den in my tiny cape in Portland, OR and I converted the bedroom closet into a wet bar. it is a hit at parties and I love having a space that is separate from my kitchen so that when guests are over I can direct them towards the bar area. Would love to post a pic but not sure how! C
that is AWESOME! you can send me a pic via email cocokelley (at) gmail (dot) com, or you can post it on our facebook page!! would love to see how it turned out.
These are great ideas! I have a *cozy* place too and have to be creative when it comes to entertaining!
Great post! I am absolutely infatuated with bar carts. I have an antique pine armoire that is in my garage and I have been thinking about adding shelves and turning it into a bar for my living room.
soledwelling.com
Thanks for inspiring me to style a home bar versus storing everything in the kitchen cabinets!
Before my grandfather passed away in the early 90′s he built me a hutch. This may kill some people, but the hutch was too country for my taste so I cut off the scroll work, painted it black and turned it into my liquor cabinet! I keep it in my dining room stocked with goodies. My husband is usually on drink duty and it keeps him out of the kitchen during my last minute prep work. I love it!
I love that closet idea too! So inventive! And a mirror or picture propped in the back of the closet would be so fun!
i think it’s great that you took the initiative to turn a piece with meaning behind it into a piece you now REALLY love as well! and now it has a great story AND function
cheers!
Love this inspiration! I definitely want to go out and buy a bar cart and mirror now! I typically use the counter in my open kitchen, but I ore the idea of a central, designated area!
I like this Mirrored Wood Butler Tray from World Market…! East to store too!
Oh I would love a glamorous bar at home, perfect for the coming season:)
Caroline
Its all about the details. Thats why I prefer living in a loft oppose a one bed room b/c I have to be creative with my decorating and I adore that!
Anorexic Escapades.com
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