Having a well-stocked and organized bar area in your home can be a great way to entertain guests or simply enjoy a drink yourself. However, choosing what items to display on top of your bar cabinet can be a tricky decision. Here are some tips on how to style your bar top in an aesthetically pleasing and functional way.
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Cocktail Making Supplies
One of the most practical items to keep on your bar top are cocktail making supplies. This includes staples like:
- Cocktail shaker
- Bar spoon
- Muddler
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Citrus juicer
- Cutting board
- Cocktail picks
Having these supplies close at hand makes it easy to whip up cocktails anytime. Arrange them in an organized way that’s aesthetically pleasing. Some other cocktail items you may want include:
- Cocktail recipe book
- Bottle opener
- Ice bucket and tongs
- Cocktail napkins
- Coasters
Barware
Stylish barware can add to the visual appeal of your bar top. Choose pieces that fit your personal tastes and decor style. Here are some barware items to consider displaying:
- Decanters – for whiskey, brandy, etc.
- Wine carafe
- Craft beer glasses
- Cocktail glasses – martini, coupe, highball, etc.
- Whiskey tumblers
- Wine glasses
- Champagne flutes
- Old fashioned glasses
- Irish coffee mugs
- Pilsner glasses
- Shot glasses
For a coordinated look, opt for barware in a matching set. Play around with arranging the pieces symmetrically or asymmetrically on the bar top. Place pieces you use most frequently near the front for convenience.
Liquor Bottles
A selection of spirits bottles and mixers make up the heart of any home bar. Arrange your bottles in a visually striking way. Here are some tips:
- Group bottles by type – whiskeys together, vodkas together etc.
- Order bottles from tallest to shortest.
- Alternate translucent and opaque bottles.
- Choose one or two special bottles as centerpieces.
- Include accessories like liquor pourers.
- Keep lesser used bottles towards the back.
Don’t overload the bar top with too many bottles. Limit yourself to your top selections and most used mixers for easy access.
Bottle Display
How you display your bottles can be almost as important as what bottles you select. Here are bottle display ideas to elevate your bar top:
- Liquor cabinets – Freestanding cabinets with shelving to showcase bottles.
- Wine racks – Horizontal racks keep wine on display.
- Bottle ledges – Built-in ledges hold bottles at an angle.
- Lazy susans – Rotating stands make selecting a bottle easy.
If you opt for open shelving, add lighting such as LED strips or small spotlights to highlight the bottles.
Glassware Storage
Storing glassware attractively is an essential bar styling tip. Options include:
- Hanging glass racks – Suspends glasses above the bar.
- Wall mounted racks – Hold glasses in place against the wall.
- Under cabinet racks – Discreet storage under cabinetry.
- Napkin holders – Stores napkins and shows off glassware.
- Etageres – Glass doors keep dust away.
Consider displaying just a few accent glasses on top rather than all your bar glassware. Keep the rest stored neatly away nearby.
Bar Signs
Personalized bar signs add a special touch and communicate your personal style. Bar sign ideas include:
- Neon signs – Add retro flair.
- Marquee lettering – Spell out words like “Cheers”.
- Backlit signs – Illuminate wood or metal signs.
- Chalkboard signs – Change out creative sayings.
- Metal signs – Rustic and durable.
When choosing sign wording, opt for something fun or meaningful. Place your bar sign in a prominent area overhead or on the front facade.
Napkins & Accessories
Roll out the finishing touches with stylish napkins and bar accessories:
- Cloth napkins – Choose cotton, linen or thicker options.
- Napkin holders – Vessels to display folded napkins.
- Coasters – Protect surfaces from moisture damage.
- Cocktail trays – For transporting drinks to guests.
- Swizzle sticks – Adorn drinks.
- Straws & picks – Function and decoration.
Opt for accessories in your color scheme and materials that complement your bar decor. Brass, marble, leather and wood make classic choices.
Snack Dishes
Complete your bar area with small snacks for patrons to munch on:
- Bowls of nuts
- Olives
- Pretzels
- Chips and dip
- Candy
- Popcorn
- Trail mix
Keep snacks visible and within arm’s reach. Use dishes that fit your serving style – sleek bowls, vintage trays, divided platters etc. Refill as needed.
Conclusion
When styling your bar top, aim for an organized layout with decorative flare. Stock the essential bar tools, glassware and spirits for convenient drink making. Add personalized elements like signs and accessories to express your tastes. Keep snacks filled and glassware sparkling clean. With these tips, your bar top can be a stylish, functional area you’ll want to show off.