A wet bar is a practical addition to your entertaining space. Whether it’s big or small or you use it as an extra prep area or a cocktail-mixing station, there are certain elements that remain important to create a functional wet bar.

Location

Wauwatosa Family Room and Wet Bar

Wet bar between the kitchen and family room

Where do you spend most of your time entertaining?  In the kitchen?  Outdoors?  In your finished basement?  It’s important to insert the wet bar in an area where people tend to gather, so you can socialize while you mix drinks, and your guests can easily grab a beverage as they mingle.  “The wet bar is often the home’s entertaining hub, so many homeowners opt to put it between entertaining spaces, such as the kitchen and family room,” explains Matt Retzak, designer at Bartelt.

Wet Bar StorageStorage

There are a lot of tools that go along with a wet bar, so make sure you plan your storage accordingly.  Open shelves or cabinetry keep everything in order.  Consider incorporating cabinetry with glass doors, so you can show off your glassware and collectibles.  You may also want to include wine cubbies and deep drawers for storing your spirits and other alcoholic beverages.

Appliances

Fox Point Butler's Pantry Wet Bar

Butler’s pantry wet bar with wine and beverage refrigerators and an ice maker

It’s important to keep your libations at the proper temperature.  Beverage and wine refrigerators are a great option to ensure your beverages stay chilled.  They also keep beer, wine, and soda out of your main refrigerator, so you can reserve that space for everyday groceries and party food.  If space permits, an ice maker is a small luxury, so you never have to worry about running out during your gatherings.  Custom panels are an option for all of these appliances to help them blend with the cabinetry to create a furniture look.

Wauwatosa Wet BarWater

A bar sink is a smart addition to your wet bar.  Not only does it make cocktail prep easier, but it also serves as another spot to do some light clean up, keeping the kitchen work triangle from becoming congested.

Style

A wet bar can come in all shapes, sizes, and colors.  Whether you’re fitting it into an empty corner or creating a whole butler’s pantry, the options for countertops, cabinetry, backsplashes, and other selections are endless.  It’s a great opportunity to show your style and get creative!