Imagine winding down after a long day or hosting friends for a fun weekend—right in the comfort of your own bar, nestled inside your stylish barndominium. With the open-concept architecture and rustic charm of a barndominium, adding a custom bar area creates the perfect mix of relaxation and entertainment. Whether you’re envisioning a cozy corner pub, a sleek wine bar, or a full-blown sports bar setup, a barndominium bar is the perfect way to enhance your lifestyle.
In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about building a bar in your barndominium—from design inspiration and essential features to practical considerations and budgeting tips. Let’s dive in!
Why Include a Bar in Your Barndominium?
Barndominiums are all about blending function and comfort with unique style. Adding a bar makes the most of your open floor plan and creates a welcoming social hub. Here are a few reasons why a bar is a great addition:
- Entertainment Hub: Great for parties, family gatherings, or casual nights in.
- Added Home Value: A well-designed bar can increase your property’s appeal and resale value.
- Space Customization: Easily adaptable to your style—rustic, modern, vintage, or farmhouse.
- Utilize Extra Space: Bars fit beautifully in underused corners or lofts.
Step 1: Choose the Type of Bar
First, determine what kind of bar fits your lifestyle and available space:
- Dry Bar
No plumbing involved—just storage, shelving, and countertop space for mixing drinks. Ideal for small spaces and those who prefer minimal maintenance.
- Wet Bar
Includes a sink, running water, and sometimes even a dishwasher or ice maker. Requires plumbing but adds major convenience.
- Outdoor Bar
Perfect for barndominiums with patios or decks. Outdoor bars can include grills, fridges, and weather-resistant countertops for hosting summer gatherings.
- Basement or Loft Bar
Use the vertical space in a barndominium to create a tucked-away entertainment area. Great for wine cellars or speakeasy-style bars.
Step 2: Decide on the Location
The placement of your bar is crucial for flow and functionality:
- Open Living Area: Integrate the bar with your kitchen and living room.
- Corner Nook: Create a cozy and space-saving bar in an unused corner.
- Bonus Room: Use a dedicated room as a full-scale bar and game room.
- Outdoor Porch or Deck: For entertaining under the stars, consider building a bar outdoors with weatherproof materials.
Step 3: Plan the Design & Aesthetic
Your bar should reflect your personal taste and complement the barndominium’s architecture. Popular barndominium bar styles include:
Rustic Bar
- Reclaimed wood, corrugated metal, and exposed beams
- Barn doors, industrial lighting, and stone countertops
- Whiskey barrel tables or stools
Modern Industrial
- Polished concrete or quartz countertops
- Matte black fixtures and sleek cabinetry
- Minimalist lines with metal and wood finishes
Farmhouse Chic
- White shiplap walls
- Butcher block counters and vintage-inspired accessories
- Open shelving with mason jars, vintage signs, and hanging plants
Sports Bar or Pub Style
- Multiple TVs, sports memorabilia, neon signs
- Brick walls and dark wood
- High-top tables and a stocked mini-fridge
Step 4: Essential Features to Include
No matter the style, certain elements will make your bar functional and enjoyable:
✔ Countertop
Choose a durable and stylish surface—granite, butcher block, stainless steel, or concrete.
✔ Storage
Include cabinets, drawers, and open shelving for glassware, bottles, and bar tools.
✔ Seating
Bar stools or built-in benches help define the area. Choose styles that match your overall theme.
✔ Lighting
Use pendant lights over the bar and LED strips under shelves. Dimmer switches help set the mood.
✔ Appliances (for Wet Bars)
- Mini fridge or wine cooler
- Ice maker
- Small sink
- Kegerator or tap system (for beer lovers)
✔ Entertainment Features
Add a mounted TV, Bluetooth speakers, or even a projector for game nights or movie parties.
Step 6: DIY or Hire a Pro?
DIY Approach:
Great for those with construction skills or if you’re building a simple dry bar. You can assemble cabinets, install countertops, and handle the decor yourself.
Hire a Professional:
Recommended for wet bars requiring plumbing, electrical, or structural changes. Also ideal if you’re creating a large or elaborate entertainment area.
You might also work with an interior designer to get the perfect balance of function and visual appeal.
Step 7: Don’t Forget Permits
If your bar requires plumbing or electrical updates (like a wet bar), you may need permits depending on your local building codes. Always check with your city or county building authority before starting construction.
Bar Safety Tips
- Install GFCI outlets near sinks and water sources.
- Ensure alcohol and glassware are stored safely, especially if you have children.
- Use slip-resistant flooring (especially in outdoor or wet bar areas).
- If adding a kegerator or beer tap, ensure CO2 tanks are stored and ventilated properly.
Final Touches: Decorating Your Bar
The fun part! Personalize your bar space with:
- Wall Art: Vintage bar signs, chalkboards, or metal wall decor
- Glassware Display: Hang stemware racks or use open shelves for display
- Plants: A few succulents or trailing vines add life to the area
- Bar Tools: Shakers, strainers, muddlers, and stirrers displayed on a tray
- Beverage Menu: Create a chalkboard menu of your favorite drinks
Conclusion
Building a bar in your barndominium is more than just a cool idea—it’s an investment in lifestyle, comfort, and home value. Whether you’re mixing drinks for friends or enjoying a quiet glass of wine, your bar can be the heart of your home’s social life. With thoughtful planning, a dash of creativity, and some functional features, your dream barndominium bar can come to life.
So grab your design notes, pour a drink, and start sketching ideas. Cheers to your future barndominium bar!