Build The Ultimate Entertaining Wet Bar With Open Shelving

A gorgeous wet bar makes hosting easy and effortless. With a dedicated area to mix and serve drinks, you can craft memorable nights with friends and family. Open shelving elevates the style while providing handy access to barware and glassware. Read on to explore tips for designing your dream entertaining wet bar complete with stunning open shelves.

With some careful planning, you can create a wet bar oasis with just the right amount of space. Follow the design principles to maximize function and visual appeal for the ultimate home refresh.

Choosing the Perfect Wet Bar Location

When deciding where to build your wet bar, consider high-traffic spaces that are easily accessible when entertaining. Areas like the kitchen, living room, and basement are ideal for wet bar placement. You want guests to be able to circulate to the bar without congestion or obstruction.

Pay attention to the existing plumbing and electrical. Situate the wet bar near water lines for installing a sink or appliances. Having accessible electrical outlets eliminates the need for extension cords when adding lighting or a refrigerator.

Designing a Functional Wet Bar Layout

A good rule of thumb is to allow 6-8 feet of counter space for a functional wet bar. This provides plenty of room for bar stools, mixing different cocktails, and hosting multiple guests. Below the counter, incorporate cabinets and appliances for storage and convenience.

Consider including some bar stools, around 16-20 inches deep, allowing guests to sit and congregate around the wet bar. Undercounter refrigerators keep cold beverages and ice within arm's reach without consuming precious counter real estate.

If possible, installing a sink greatly improves the utility of your wet bar. An undermount sink creates a seamless look. Opt for a compact size, around 16 inches wide, to conserve space in smaller wet bars. The sink provides water for making cocktails, cleaning up, and keeping chilled drinks icy cold.

Selecting Gorgeous Countertop Materials

Choose a countertop material that is water-resistant and easy to clean. Quartz stands up well to condensation rings and accidental spills. Opt for a style with pattern or veining to conceal wear. Other options like granite and marble also work, though quartz is most durable.

Standard countertop height is 36 inches. Include a 2-3 inch overhang past the front bar faceframe for a place to rest feet or bags. Consider going slightly lower, around 34 inches, for a more comfortable seated bar experience.

Further Storage with Floating Shelves

While the cabinets below handle major storage needs, floating shelves add lovely open display space. Stagger the shelves at varying heights for visual appeal. Place them above the back counter near eye level to easily access drinkware.

For a seamless look, choose floating shelf brackets lined with LED lights. This illuminates the shelf contents indirectly. Carefully gauge the thickness needed to avoid sagging under bottle weight.

Vary the shelf depth based on their purpose. Shallower ledges around 4 inches deep are great for displaying decor. Deeper shelves around 10-12 inches securely hold bottles of spirits and wine.

Showcasing Glassware and Bar Tools

Open shelves allow you to exhibit your impressive collection of glassware and barware. Arrange stemmed wine glasses, chilled pint glasses, and seasonal cocktail ware. Display your favorite bar tools like shakers, strainers, and muddlers.

Elevate simple glassware displays by adding props and decor. Slice citrus fruits and display in glass containers for garnishes. Incorporate bar signs or coasters to label featured drinks. Lanterns, vases, and trays inject visual flair.

Essential Appliances for Entertainment

Undercounter refrigerators keep beer, wine, mixers, and garnishes chilled without monopolizing space. Opt for an 18-24 inch wide fridge with glass shelves and LED interior lighting. If entertaining wine aficionados, add a slim wine fridge showcasing the labels through a glass door.

For smaller wet bars, consider compact cooling systems that make ice and chill up to five bottles. These stow away easily but offer full-sized entertaining functionality.

Incorporate Lighting for Ambiance

Proper illumination transforms a wet bar from drab to dramatic. The ideal lighting plan includes task lighting, ambient lighting, and accent lighting. Pendants are a popular choice to spotlight the wet bar workspace.

Opt for adjustable height pendants that allow you to place lights precisely where needed. Position pendants about 30-34 inches above the counter to directly illuminate mixing and prepping areas. Choose stylish globes or geometric shapes to enhance your bar's aesthetic.

If possible, install lighting under floating shelves to showcase glassware displays. Rope lights or LED strips emanate a soft glow for accenting without glare.

Infusing Personality With Decor Touches

Thoughtful decorating elevates your wet bar from purely functional to an entertaining focal point. Incorporate meaningful art pieces, prints, or even vintage maps on the back wall. Floating shelves allow you to spotlight cherished souvenirs, statues, or other decor.

Pepper the countertop with greenery like succulents or air plants. Sculptural vases filled with faux botanicals add organic texture against sleek surfaces. Essential oil diffusers scent the air with lovely aromas like eucalyptus and lemongrass.

Keep bar tools and glassware organized with woven baskets, ceramic canisters, or bins. This conceals clutter while adding an artisanal touch.

Caring for Your New Wet Bar

With proper care and maintenance, your gorgeous new wet bar remains in top entertaining shape for years. Prevent stains and buildup by promptly wiping up spills on countertops and shelves. For deep cleaning, use a gentle soap and water solution avoiding harsh chemicals.

Regularly inspect floating shelves to ensure brackets are secure. Avoid overloading shelves past recommended weight limits. This prevents sagging and possible collapse.

Clean bar appliances like refrigerators following manufacturer guidelines. Replace water filters and clean condenser coils every six months. Take care of your beautiful new wet bar and it will be a joy hosting friends and family.

A thoughtfully designed wet bar opens up possibilities for memorable evenings sipping cocktails surrounded by loved ones. Follow these tips to create your own inviting space complete with gorgeous open shelves ideal for displaying glassware collections.

You can build the ultimate wet bar with some careful planning and smart design choices. Fill your glasses with your favorite spirits, sit back, and toast to your new home hangout.