85 Epic Basement Bar Ideas
85 Epic Basement Bar Ideas
So, you’re thinking about adding a bar to your basement or updating one that you have? Well, you’ve come to the right place. This post is packed with inspiration with 85 epic basement bar ideas, including ideas for layout, design, decorating, money saving tips and the very best accessories for your bar.
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How much does it cost to build a basement bar?
If you’re starting from scratch a wet bar can cost you from $6,000 to $25,000 or more. These are the cost to consider:
- Plumbing can cost anywhere from $300 to $2,000.
- Cabinets and counters can range from $900 to $7,000.
- Fridge could be $500 to $5,000
- Labor Cost is an additional $3,000 or more
Wet Bar or Dry Bar?
One of the first things to consider is if you want a wet bar or a dry bar. The only difference is a wet bar has a sink. So, you’ll want to consider if you’ll use a sink enough for the additional costs.
Wet Bar
In this post I’ll show you tons of ideas for wet bars and dry bars to help you decide which is best for you.
IMAGE SOURCE | OHSOCHICINTERIORS
Here’s a beautiful example of a wet bar with design for days. I’m loving the contrast of the black and white with the gold hardware for a touch of glam.
Ways to Save Money on Your Basement Bar
There are several ways you can cut costs. Here are a few ideas.
- Install a dry bar (without a sink).
- Buy a manufactured bar.
- Do it Yourself. If you’re handy you can build the bar yourself with the cost of supplies only.
- Build a small bar or a wall bar.
Cheap Basement Bar Ideas
Let’s explore these cost saving options below.
Dry Bar
Adding a sink does add a lot of cost. If you’re trying to save money and don’t think you’ll use the sink that much then a dry bar might be right for you. Check out some examples below of awesome looking dry bars.
Stylish Dry Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | HOMEWITHKRISSY
This dry bar is not lacking in style. There is ample seating at the bar and counter space to prepare drinks. The brick wall adds extra charm to this basement.
Rustic Dry Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | DUSTYLUMBERCO
Above is another example of an awesome dry bar. There’s plenty of storage for liquor and wine with the custom barnwood cabinet. The barnwood wall is that perfect touch that would look amazing in a rustic or an unfinished basement.
Manufactured Bar Storage and Shelving
IMAGE SOURCE | PORTBENTEN
Purchasing your own bar storage furniture and shelving is a great way to create a small bar in your basement and cut down on costs for your project. There are a lot of stylish bar options out there.
Bar Table
IMAGE SOURCE | MCGUIREHOMECOLLECTION
This bar table is not built in but a stand-alone piece of furniture. Adding your own bar table is a way to save money on your design as well as adding flexibility for you in the future.
Small Basement Bar Ideas
Just because you’re short on space or want to save money doesn’t mean you can’t create an epic home bar. Even if you just have the space under the stairs that’s enough for a stylish bar. Check out some of the best space saving ideas below.
Cozy Bar Idea
IMAGE SOURCE | ABBY_COYNE
This is a cozy and stylish small bar. The details of this space give it it’s personality. Details, like the black industrial pipe open shelves and the white subway tile. Looks like the perfect spot for a few friends to grab a drink.
Under the Stairs Basement Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | EMILYDANYLCHUK.DESIGN
Why not take advantage of the wasted space under the stairs? Custom cabinetry can be specially designed to fit into any awkward spot.
Small Stylish Wall Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | ACCENTRIXDESIGN
The black cabinets really stand out in this small area. Full upper and lower cabinets leave plenty of space for storage.
Small Moody Design
IMAGE SOURCE | CUPBOARDBROTHERS
The black subway tile helps give this bar a moody feel. The lighter shades of wood are a great balance with the dark tile. The end result is a very sophisticated feel in a small space.
Small Modern Wet Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | KARINKOLBINTERIORS
This wall bar was custom created to fit perfectly into this uniquely shaped nook.
How to Layout Your Basement Bar
There are several options for you to layout your bar. It will depend on your space, budget and the look and feel that you love most.
Some of the most popular bar layouts are:
- U Layout
- L Shaped Bar
- J Layout
- I or II Layout
- Wall Bar
- Curved Countertop Layout
Below, I’ll show you each of these layout options and the benefits of each.
U Layout
IMAGE SOURCE | KEGWORKS
The countertop here is in the shape of a U. This is a popular layout. What I love about it is it provides tons of counter space. This will work great for you if you want to have plenty of room to prepare food and drinks as well as seating.
L Shaped Basement Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | EROTASCUSTOMBUILDING
This layout works great to maximize the space that you have. It also leaves more room in your basement for other uses of the space. In the basement above they were able to fit a large seating and storage area in the same space.
J Bar Layout Design
IMAGE SOURCE | ANFLOYD
I love this unique layout because it leaves plenty of spots for stools. Then inside of the bar you can create storage for glasses, alcohol and even hold a small fridge. This layout is great both maximizing space and for entertaining.
II Layout with Waterfall Countertop
IMAGE SOURCE | FINECUTCUSTOM
The double I layout is a really popular choice. With this layout you have two main counters that are parallel and not connected. One for sitting and drinking and one for preparing the drinks. The waterfall countertop makes a statement in this bar.
Curved Countertop Layout
IMAGE SOURCE | SPECIALAGENTK_MO
The curved countertop layout really brings that wow factor. It makes the bar the center piece of the entire room. If you have plenty of space and want your bar to really stand out then this might be the perfect layout for you.
Wall Bar Layout
With the wall layout the entire bar is pushed against one wall. This works great if you’re limited on space or if you have other plans for your basement such as adding a home theater or a game room. There are tons of different options for creating a wall bar. Check out my favorites below.
Brick Wall Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | GREENREMODELING
The brick wall only helps to make this wall bar a standout feature in the room. Open shelving with lights makes the brick stand out even more.
Wall Bar with TV
IMAGE SOURCE | GREENREMODELING
TVs work great in the center of a wall bar. That way they can be seen from anywhere in the room.
Small Chic Wall Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | JAZZYYASSI
If you’re thinking of adding a wall bar figure out which wall in your basement will work best. Then take measurements to start planning the space.
Does a Basement Bar Increase Home Value?
One of the considerations when deciding to add a bar to your basement is if it adds value to your home. Then answer is yes, absolutely. A wet bar is considered a luxury item in most homes. It adds that wow factor that will impress many buyers and can also boost the value of your home.
Design Ideas for Your Bar
So, now that I’ve shown you a few layout ideas you may now be thinking about the overall design of your bar. This is the fun part, you can incorporate your style into the design to create a space that you’ll love. Check out some of my favorite ideas below.
Show Stopping Liquor Display
IMAGE SOURCE | WYDIANKITCHENS
If you have a ton of liquor make this the focal point of your bar. There are tons of ideas to make your alcohol the star of the show. Here the beautiful lit shelves with the textured backsplash make the alcohol stand out against the neutral space.
Large Striking Bar Design Idea
IMAGE SOURCE |BCN_HOMES
Choose colors and elements that complement each other when deciding on your design. Here the brick backdrop coordinates well with the grey bar. The effect is a stylish bar space that would be fun to hang out in.
Choose Design Elements that You Love
IMAGE SOURCE | DESIGNTHEORYINT
Every design element of this space was chosen to make this bar stand out from the rest. The stylish wallpaper, modern light fixture and the navy and light wood create a sophisticated atmosphere. The chevron wine storage is another one of my favorite features in this beautiful space.
Plan Your Bar Height
When planning your bar design make sure you think about the height of your counters.
What is the Height of a Basement Bar?
- The standard height of a bar counter top is 40 to 42 inches from the floor.
Two-Tiered Granite Counter
IMAGE SOURCE | CROWEBUILTHOMES
You also have the option of a two-tiered counter like shown here if you want one height for the bar stools but a shorter height for preparing drinks. This gives a custom (aka expensive) look.
Make Storage Functional and Stylish
IMAGE SOURCE | NORELOCOCABINETS
When planning for your design be sure to anticipate storage needs for your alcohol of choice. Here a closet has been re-purposed as a wine storage room. Keep reading for more storage ideas for your basement.
Stylish Basement Bar Ideas
When you’re planning your bar design think about what colors and styles you love. Do you love wood, and natural elements? Do you want a dark moody feel or something light and bright. Check out some stylish ideas below to get you inspired.
Reclaimed Wood Bar Idea
IMAGE SOURCE | BIGSKYHOMEINTERIORS
The reclaimed wood under the bar gives a natural feel to this space and pairs nicely with the white and black accents.
Sophisticated Black and White Bar Idea
IMAGE SOURCE | STEFANASIBER
Here the shiny white subway tile backsplash provides a stark contrast to the black cabinets. The combo adds interest to the space and gives it a stylish and sophisticated feel.
Unique Backslash
When you’re planning your design consider adding a unique backsplash to the space. This could be stone, beautiful tile, mirrors or brick. Check out some amazing backdrop ideas below to get you inspired.
Colorful Marble Backsplash
IMAGE SOURCE | OAKLEYHOMEBUILDERS
Colorful marble tile backsplash is the focal point of this small bar. When choosing tile colors take a sample of your cabinet color to make sure they coordinate.
Geometric Tile
IMAGE SOURCE | EDWARDCUSTOMHOMES
This mid-century modern geometric tile creates a fun vibe in this home bar area. Pair your favorite patterned tile with colorful cabinets for a truly unique look.
Mirror Tile Backsplash
IMAGE SOURCE | STARHOMES
Mirror tile looks great in a basement bar. Basement are usually pretty dark but mirrors help to bounce the light around the room. It also creates a focal point for the entire room.
Shiny Penny Tile Backsplash
IMAGE SOURCE | KBSINTERIORDESIGN
Penny tile shines like diamonds in this one-of-a-kind bar. If you choose a pretty backsplash be sure to light it up like they did here so it can really sparkle.
Alcohol and Bar Supplies Storage Ideas
There are tons of options for storage for your space. Before you choose what’s best for you take an inventory of the alcohol, cocktail glasses, wine glasses, and other supplies that you plan on storing.
Then you decide whether custom shelving, DIY, or out of the box is right for you. Check out some of my favorite storage ideas below.
Industrial Liquor Rack
IMAGE SOURCE | TMANN_REALESTATE
These iron pipe industrial storage shelves are a great choice for a basement. This would make a perfect storage option for a rustic design and could be something you install yourself.
Custom Wine Storage Drawer
IMAGE SOURCE | CUPBOARDBROTHERS
Custom shelves, cabinets and drawers are the best way to maximize the space you have for storage. If you are having custom cabinets and drawers built take time to consider all of your storage needs.
Custom Wine and Liquor Storage
IMAGE SOURCE | HOMEBUNCH
The storage options you choose will vary greatly depending on your drink or drinks of choice. Love wine? Then you may want to add a wine fridge, storage for wine glasses plus, a unique way to store bottles.
Liquor more your thing? Then open shelving for all your bottles may be the way to go.
Floating Shelves
Open floating shelves works great in a bar. What you display on them is totally a personal choice. Check out some beautiful open floating shelves ideas below.
Two-Tone Floating Shelf Wall
IMAGE SOURCE | WILLABYWAY
Is your style a little more minimalist? If so then your floating shelves may just have a few wine glasses and a little bit of décor.
Open Shelves with Mirror Backdrop
IMAGE SOURCE | BGIDEA
Are you a wine lover? Then your open shelves may display your wine bottles plus wine glasses. Consider adding mirrors behind the shelves to brighten the space.
Basement Bar Decorating Ideas
One of the most fun parts of the process is decorating your cellar bar. There are tons of options to do this depending on your style. You’ll find some inspiration below to get you started.
Chic Accents for Your Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | MICHELGRATCHINTERIORS
To create a stylish bar thoughtfully choose the décor for your counters and shelves. Group like liquor together and find stylish cocktail glasses to display. A round mirror looks modern in the center of this bar against the lime wash brick.
Farmhouse Decorating Basement Bar Ideas
IMAGE SOURCE | REGALWOODCABINETSLLC
If you love the farmhouse style and have it throughout the rest of your house then why not bring that style to your bar as well. To do this simply add natural décor pieces, plants, pretty glassware, farmhouse style towels, and wicker or chicken wire baskets.
Add a Painting to Your Bar Area
IMAGE SOURCE | KCHOMEREPORT
You might be wondering what to put behind your bar. Consider a beautiful painting that ties in the colors of your space. This will instantly add interest and style.
Choosing Attractive Bar Stools
IMAGE SOURCE | TARAKANTORINTERIORS
Don’t overlook bar stools as a great opportunity to add character to your space. You can find stools in every style available. You’re sure to find some that you love.
How Tall Should Bar Stools Be?
A typical bar height is 40-42 inches so you’ll want your bar stools to be 28 to 30 inches. The general rule of thumb is for the height of the seat to be about 12 inches from the top of the counter. This will give most people enough leg space to sit comfortable at the counter.
For more bar stools ideas, you can check out this post…Finding the perfect bar stools.
Signs for Your Basement Bar
One of the most fun parts of designing your bar is picking out the ultimate sign. There are tons of options out there some have lights and many can be made custom with your name and personalized with colors, materials, and the wording you prefer. Check out some ideas below.
Lighted Sign for Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | SPECIALAGENTK_MO
Your sign is a great chance to make a statement in your bar. So, why not go big and maybe find one with lights too.
Basement Pub Signs My Top Picks
Check out below some of my favorite signs that would look great in your space. Many of them are customizable. Click on the links to see the full descriptions.
CELLAR BAR SIGNS | WHERE TO FIND
1 | LARGE PERSONALIZED LOUNGE SIGN
2 | PERSONALIZED LED METAL SIGN (MULIT-COLORS)
3 | NEON CUSTOM SPORTS BAR SIGN (COLOR CHANGING)
4 | MODERN PERSONALIZED METAL SIGN
5 | NEON IT’S 5:00 SOMEWHERE SIGN
6 | ROUND CUSTOM WOODEN COCKTAIL BAR SIGN
7 | LARGE WOODEN THE PUB SIGN (MORE DESIGNS AVAILABLE)
Basement Bar Ideas with a TV
Are you thinking of adding a TV to your bar area? Adding a TV makes this the spot that your friends won’t want to leave. Check out some ideas below to pull it off in style.
Large TV Centered in Modern Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | MICHAELSMITHARCHITECTS
The most popular choice for TV placement in a wet bar is centered right above the sink. If you have bar stools make sure that the TV can be seen from them.
Small TV in Home Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | THELAURENSELLSTEAM
The TV that you choose does not have to be huge. Typically, you and your guests will be sitting fairly close to the TV so a gigantic one just doesn’t make since. Be sure to measure how far the seating will be to find the size TV that’s right for the space.
Choosing The Best Style for Your Space
Next, I want to show you some of the hottest styles right now that would look amazing in your space. These include rustic, modern and farmhouse. If you love these styles, you can check them out below.
Rustic Basement Bar Ideas
I think rustic and pubs just go hand in hand. Natural materials like wood, metal, stone and worn finishes just fit perfectly with the bar atmosphere. If you love this style too then check out some of my favorite rustic design ideas below.
Rustic Wood Pub
IMAGE SOURCE | CAVESFORMEN
Wood and dark colors create a warm atmosphere for this basement. The metal stools and black counters go well with the rustic style.
Wood and Tin Rustic Design
IMAGE SOURCE | ZCOUNTERFORM
Adding weathered tin is a great way to give your space that rustic feel. Using wood with the tin creates a nice contrast and creates another dimension for the space.
Rustic Brick, Wood and Metal Basement Pub Idea
IMAGE SOURCE | GREENREMODELING
Brick, wood and metal are all great choices for a rustic tavern feel. When choosing your bar stools, you may want to consider leather, wood or metal to keep with the style of the space.
Rustic Wood Pub Idea
IMAGE SOURCE | MUSSERBUILDER
If you don’t want your space to feel too dark, then pair dark wood with lighter walls or choose a stone or light-colored backsplash.
Farmhouse Basement Bar Ideas
Farmhouse is one of the most popular decorating styles right now. If the rest of your house is decorated in farmhouse style, then you might consider creating a farmhouse bar. Check out some ideas below to pull of the style.
Farmhouse Style with White Penny Tile
IMAGE SOURCE | NEXTLEVELREMODELING
If you love the farmhouse style then add natural elements like wicker baskets, and chicken wire to your space. Light cabinets would be a great choice and be sure to add your favorite farmhouse décor.
Light and Bright Basement Bar Idea
IMAGE SOURCE | BICKKIMER_HOMES
Just because it’s in your basement doesn’t mean it has to be dark. You can choose light materials for your cabinets, backsplash and paint if you want to give the room a bright feel.
Modern Basement Bar Ideas
Modern style looks great in a bar. If you picture yourself sipping a martini in a space with clean lines, and minimal décor then modern style might be perfect for your bar. Check out some of my favorite modern designs below.
Modern Design with Waterfall Countertops
IMAGE SOURCE | AR.INTERIORS
If you love modern style, choose clean lines. A waterfall countertop would look amazing. There are also tons of modern bar stools to choose from to get the look that you’re going for.
Modern Monochromatic Wet Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | KITCHENETAL
Modern pictures, light fixtures and backsplash set the tone for this wet bar. A monochromatic color scheme always looks great in a modern space.
Colored Cabinets
If you want to really make your home bar stand out you may consider adding colored cabinets. This will really make your cabinets pop and stand out as a feature. Check out some of my favorite ideas below to add colored cabinets to your basement.
Two-Toned Blue and White Cabinetry
IMAGE SOURCE | MERRINJONESINTERIORS
Two-toned cabinets will make your bar really stand out. Choose your favorite color and one neutral to make a beautiful one-of-a-kind space.
Forest Green Modern and Retro Saloon
IMAGE SOURCE | KALEIDOSCOPEDESIGNDENVER
An old-fashioned saloon meets a modern wet bar in this truly unique design. The forest green cabinets make the space come alive.
Deep Blue Cabinets
IMAGE SOURCE | KRISTENRIDLERDESIGN
Deep blue cabinets adds that pop of color and also adds a sophisticated feel to this basement. If you’re going colorful with your cabinets choose neutrals for paint, flooring and backsplash.
Basement Man Cave with Bar
It’s many men’s dream to create the ultimate man cave. Of course, the perfect man cave would be in a basement with a bar. If this is in fact your dream too then check out some ideas below to make it a reality.
Man Cave Whiskey Pub
IMAGE SOURCE | NSPJARCHITECTS
This is the ultimate classy man cave bar area. This would be a perfect spot for hanging out, having whiskey and watching sports. The huge scrabble board on the back wall is a fun addition to the space.
Man Cave Sports Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | EROTASCUSTOMBUILDING
If you love sports, then creating your own sports bar might be right up your alley. First thing first you need a TV to watch the game. Use some of your favorite sports memorabilia as décor for the space.
Basement Man Cave Game Room and Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | MOOSEBASEMENTS
For the ultimate man cave vibes choose dark, masculine colors. Be sure to add plenty of lighting to help brighten the space and to create ambience. If you have room add a pool table or games of your choice.
Basement Game Room with Bar
If you have the space game rooms, go hand in hand with bars in your basement.
What are the most popular games for your basement game room?
- Pool
- Ping Pong
- Foosball
- Large Arcade Games
- A Round Table for Poker or Cards
- Dartboard
- Air hockey
- Pop-A-Shot Basketball Game
- Shuffleboard
Keep reading for more ideas for basement game rooms with a bar.
Spacious Basement Pool Table and Bar Area
IMAGE SOURCE | GREENREMODELING
Here’s a good example of a wall bar in a game room. Creating the bar on the wall leaves plenty of room for the pool table. If you choose pool as your game of choice, you’ll definitely need plenty of space around the table to make your shots.
Cellar Game Table and Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | MIXHOMEMERCANTILLELLC
Adding a round table to you bar area works perfectly if you and your friends love playing poker or card games while hanging out.
Stylish Bar and Game Room
IMAGE SOURCE | ADORHOMES
Here they seamlessly blended the game room with the bar area to create the ultimate hang out spot. I love all of the seating options in this room making it the perfect entertaining spot.
My Top Amazon Picks for Your Game Room
If you want to add some epic games to your basement game room, then check out my favorites from Amazon below.
BASEMENT GAME ROOM GAMES | WHERE TO FIND
1 | FOOSBALL TABLE
4 | POP-A-SHOT BASKETBALL GAME
Unique Basement Bar Ideas
Do you want your basement bar to really stand out from the others? Choose one element that is unique, and you’ll be creating a space like no other. Check out some examples below to get you inspired.
Stunning Purple Lighted Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | MOSBY_BUILDING_ARTS
When choosing your lighting go bold with colorful under the bar lights to really make your space stand out. An inexpensive way to do this is with rope lighting, which you can find here. It comes with a remote and you can change the color daily.
Old Fashioned Red Saloon
IMAGE SOURCE | TIMBARBERARCHITECTS
Think outside the box when designing your bar. Do you have a closet or small room that you can remove the doors to repurpose as your bar area. The inspiration for this space was a snack bar in a 2oth century cinema.
Standout Feature
When choosing your standout feature think about what part of the bar design you’re most excited about. Here’s some areas of your bar that you can make really unique.
- Countertops
- Backsplash
- Lighting
- Cabinets
- Art or Large Sign
Check out some more ideas below to create that one-of-a-kind space.
Unique Countertops in Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | INTERORS_BY_SELMA
The countertops here are a complete showstopper. The colorful marbled stone looks amazing in this space.
Stunning Bar Lighting
IMAGE SOURCE | CAVESFORMEN
Here’s another great example of lighting really making a statement in this basement. You have an opportunity to add accent lighting both under the bar counter and on the shelving to illuminate your alcohol.
Unique Walnut Countertop Design for Wet Bar
IMAGE SOURCE | MBKDESIGN
Think outside of the box when choosing your countertop material. Here the walnut countertop with a live edge is the star of the show.
Fun Patterned Tile as Backsplash
IMAGE SOURCE | SURROUNDINGSBYMARYARTHUR
The backsplash you choose for your bar can definitely be your wow factor. Go bold with color or pattern or both to create a truly one-of-a-kind space.
Brick Basement Wall
IMAGE SOURCE | BETHPICARD1
Brick looks amazing in a basement bar. If you don’t have existing brick in your basement there are some realistic faux options including wallpaper and peel and stick wall panels. You can find faux brick options here.
Accessories for Your Basement Bar
I did a little shopping and found some cool things that you didn’t even know you need for your home bar click on the links to check them out below.
MY FAVORITE HOME BAR ACCESSORIES | WHERE TO FIND
1 | LIGHT UP BAR SIGN WITH REMOTE
2 | OLD FASHIONED WHISKEY GLASSES
3 | PERSONALIZED TAVERN COASTERS (MORE STYLES AVAILABLE)
4 | NEON CHEERS SIGN
5 | WOULD DRINK HERE AGAIN 5 STARS SIGN
6 | SIX BOTTLE LIQUOR DISPENSER
7 | LIGHTED LIQUOR SHELF (CHANGES COLORS WITH REMOTE)
8 | ANTIQUE COPPER BARTENDER KIT WITH STAND
Hope you enjoyed this post with 85 basement bar ideas. If it gave you even a little inspiration and new ideas for your project, then I’ve done my job. Feel free to save your favorites to your Pinterest boards. Cheers!
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