Enjoy impromptu happy hours, drinks with friends, and nightcaps from the comfort of your home.

A well-designed basement bar provides plenty of storage and a functional prep surface to mix drinks.

Double the Storage

If you’re working with a small space, get creative with vertical storage.

close up of bar shelves

Credit: Brie Williams

Floating wood shelves hold copper mugs and dishware; slots on the bottom holdwine glassesto double storage space.

Vintage Meets Modern

Use a vintage dresseras a basement bar idea to add character and timeless elegance.

Stock the drawers with napkins, seasonal barware, and accessories.

dresser bar with artwork

Credit: Brie Williams

That’s what carts are for!

Plus, carts with casters make serving drinks at cocktail hour simple.

Incorporate natural elements likewood cutting boardsinto a neutral color scheme to add warmth.

kitchen island with purple stools

Credit: David Land

They’re also handy if you oughta chop some fruit for a pitcher of Sangria!

An oil painting ties the happy color scheme together.

A small tray holds bottles and napkins; anantique pitchercontains drinking straws.

bar cart with plant

Credit: Jason Donnelly

Framed photos and art personalize the corner bar.

Dark and Moody

Embrace a little drama and go dark with your basement bar paint colors.

Amarble countertop and backsplashbrighten the space and create a stark contrast with the black walls and cabinetry.

black cabinets in kitchen

Credit: Annie Schlechter

Glass-frontcabinets hold spirits and glassware, while the base cabinets feature abuilt-in fridgeto keep drinks and mixers chilled.

Basement Bar Furniture

A two-tone buffet is the focal point of this bright and cheery basement bar.

Arattan divideradds height and texture to the display.

bar with yellow cabinets

Credit: Anthony Masterson

If your basement has ample open space, turn the drinks station into its own private area.

Compact Basement Bar Idea

Utilize an overlooked nook or corner under the stairs byinstalling a built-in bar.

A green pendant light adds vibrant color and provides task lighting.

corner bar with artwork

Credit: Anthony Masterson

Avoid using high-end materials since they won’t increase the overall value of a basement bar.

Afinished basementis often more appealing to buyers than an unfinished one.

For bars with seating, you’ll need much more space.

bar with black walls and cabinets

Credit: Werner Straube

bar table with white shutter doors

Credit: Kim Cornelison

A visual of a bar with a chiller.