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Happy hour is closer than you think.
Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or a wine aficionado, it's time to indulge in your own home bar. It's an achievable decorating project that will make your home the envy of family and friends. In fact, a recent study by Rated People revealed that 1-in-13 UK based homeowners want to build a bar – so you might inspire your social circle to do the same.
A genuinely decadent home bar is all about creating a sumptuous experience akin to the real thing: opt for luxe textures, maximalist wallpaper and eye-catching finishes. Whether you want to unwind alone or create the perfect space for entertaining, you can craft a home bar to suit – it's all about creating a sense of luxury.
Award-winning interior designer, Matthew Williamson, agrees: 'Think glamorous, moody, and decadent with luxurious velvet and jacquard upholstery, deep green tones, luxurious wallpapers, and tabletop brass lighting to set the cocktail chic mood at home.'
Keep reading to discover how you can create an opulent bar at home...
You don't need a lot of space to create a home cocktail bar. In fact, small and awkward spaces offer the perfect opportunity to slot in a petite drinks cabinet or trolley.
Work with the space you have and make a visual statement by incorporating eye-catching details, like maximalist prints, jewel tones and metallic finishes.
Image: Eve Gold and Teal Upcycled Drinks Trolley, Webb & Gray
Plain glassware and a decadent home bar do not mix, so it's crucial to opt for pieces that emphasise the luxurious look you're going for.
Choose glasses that are as ornamental as they are practical, so they can be displayed as well as used.
Image: Set of Two Pink Twirl Coupe Glasses, Rockett St George
A minty shade and retro shape give this pair of coupe glasses an elegant look that is ever-on-trend. Simply add some fizz.
When it comes to creating a home bar that is much like the real thing, don't be shy with prints, patterns and detail. This is your opportunity to go bold and create a maximalist look.
Image: Monique Table Lamp, Pooky
Get the ambience just right by forgoing your ceiling light in favour of a more subtle glow. Lamps and candles add a cosy and intimate feel that will resemble the mood of your favourite watering hole.
Image:Humble Two Linen Table Lamp, Lime Lace
Make a statement with this showstopping lamp, consisting of a leopard-like base and rich black shade. This is guaranteed to make an impact whether it's turned on or not.
Forget your kitchen chairs, a home bar needs dedicated comfy seating – how else will you while away the hours with a drink in hand?
We recommend choosing chairs that don't compromise comfort for style. Opt for curved silhouettes, plump seats and plush upholstery (velvet is always an excellent choice).
Image: Davey Lighting Narrow Pillar Wall Light, Original BTC
With a scalloped, shell-back design, this smart cocktail chair has a glamorous, art-deco-inspired look. It's available in a range of sumptuous shades.
Sleek, light-bouncing metallics and mirrored surfaces give your space a party-like atmosphere. Plus, they up the luxurious look.
If you don't own a disco ball, a mirrored table is the next best thing.
Image: Fabulous Silver Disco Side Table, Rockett St George
If warm gold metallic accents are more to your taste than silver, then this side table is sure to catch your eye. We love the light and airy pink-tinted glass, the base's tall, tapered conical shape, and the all-round curved edges, which enhances its luxe appeal.
Barware aside, it's the extra details that'll give your home bar the wow factor.
You can dress up your bar cart or drinks cabinet with neon lighting, decorate your walls with prints, or add decorative elements. Personality and decor are what will make your cocktail bar feel tailor-made to you.
Image: Berkley White Drinks Cabinet, Danetti
Just in case there was any doubt, point your guests in the direction of drinks with this stylish neon sign.
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