Dry Bar Ideas | Redfin

Are you interested in mixology? Do you enjoy hosting gatherings? If you have a small corner in your kitchen, a home dry bar could be the perfect addition you never knew you needed. More than just a fancy bar cart, a dry bar can serve as a personal retreat or a social hub at your next party. Whether you’re thinking about adding a dry bar to your home in Scranton, PA or renovating your house in Albany, OR, this article is filled with insights and various home dry bar ideas that will suit any home decor style.

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What is a dry bar?

A home dry bar is a dedicated space in a house for preparing, making, and serving drinks. Dry bars are typically situated in or near the kitchen and do not have running water or a sink. They usually include shelving, cabinetry, a countertop, various liquids, tools, glassware, and sometimes a mini-fridge or wine rack.

Dry bar design ideas

If you’re considering adding a dry bar to your home, here are some ideas to consider before starting:

1. Choose the correct height

Deciding on the height of your dry bar is essential for comfort and functionality. Bryan Whitaker, owner of Kitsap Bartending Services, recommends getting the bar height, counter height, and stool height just right to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for both you and your guests.

2. Have fun with patterned tile

Josh Turgut, a designer at My Kitchen And Bath, suggests adding patterned tile to your dry bar to introduce style and elevate the space. Whether you choose a geometric or Moroccan-inspired look, patterned tile can add flair and visual interest to your dry bar.

3. Store and display on floating shelves

Adding floating shelves with subtle lighting can help you display your favorite spirits and barware while creating a clean and modern look. These shelves not only provide storage but also enhance the overall aesthetic of your dry bar.

4. Keep organized with hidden storage

Incorporating hidden storage below the bar can help keep your items tidy and organized. Ben Goodwin, blogger of The Rusty Bartender, suggests adding hidden storage for glasses, tools, or even a built-in ice well to maintain a clean and organized dry bar.

5. Add a wine fridge

Consider including a wine fridge or beverage cooler in your dry bar to keep drinks chilled and easily accessible. A wine fridge can add convenience and a touch of luxury to your dry bar, making it perfect for personal use and hosting purposes.

6. Opt for something vintage

Take inspiration from past eras when designing your dry bar. Vintage designs from Art Deco or mid-century modern styles can add personality and clever designs to your dry bar, making it a unique and stylish conversation piece.

7. Turn to AI

For a modern touch, consider implementing voice-activated technology like the BarBot to impress your guests with custom cocktails. Adding AI technology can elevate your dry bar experience and add a luxurious feel to your home.

8. Mix materials and natural elements

Introduce natural elements like plants to add vibrancy to your dry bar. Consider using warm materials like wood and brass to create a cozy atmosphere. Mixing textures and materials can enhance both rustic and modern design aesthetics in your bar space.

9. Add a personalized touch to your dry bar

Add your personal flair to the dry bar by incorporating monogrammed glasses, framed cocktail recipes, travel souvenirs, or unique decor items. Personalizing your dry bar with customized elements can make it unique and truly yours.

Dry bar stocking ideas

Once you’ve designed your dry bar, it’s time to stock it with essential items. Here are some tips for stocking your dry bar:

10. Get situated with the essential dry bar tools

Invest in quality bar tools like a shaker, jigger, strainer, and mixing glass to create elevated cocktails at home. Additional tools like a muddler, bar spoon, and ice bag can enhance your mixology experience and make your dry bar a destination for craft cocktails.

11. Pick out some unique glassware

Select beautiful glassware to enhance the visual appeal of your dry bar. Displaying glassware on open shelves with integrated lighting can highlight their brilliance and turn your bar into a standout feature ready for entertaining.

12. Grab some booze

Stock up on a variety of spirits, mixers, and garnishes to create a well-rounded selection of drinks at your dry bar. Ensure you have everything from vodka and gin to fresh juices and herbs to cater to different tastes and preferences.

Is a dry bar right for your home?

Consider your space and entertaining habits when deciding if a dry bar is suitable for your home. Adding a dry bar can enhance your home’s entertainment space and potentially increase its value. If you have the space and desire to create a dedicated area for mixing drinks, a dry bar could be the perfect addition to your home.

For example, Kaitlyn Parness of Collect Like Kaitlyn found the ideal spot for a dry bar in her dining room and seamlessly integrated it into her home. Adding a dry bar can be a cost-effective way to elevate your home’s entertaining capabilities without the need for extensive modifications.

What is the difference between a wet bar and a dry bar?

The main difference between a wet bar and a dry bar is the presence of a sink with running water in a wet bar, requiring plumbing installation. A dry bar, on the other hand, does not have a sink and can be more versatile and cost-effective. Consider accessory options like ice bins or portable sinks to replicate some wet bar functionalities in a dry bar setting.

How much does it cost to add a dry bar?

Adding a dry bar to your home can be a budget-friendly way to expand your entertaining space. Costs can vary depending on the materials and customization options chosen, but a typical range for adding a dry bar is between $1,500 to $4,000. Whether you DIY the project or hire professionals, a dry bar can be a valuable addition to your home.