For the ambitious mixologist or those with a penchant for sophistication, a home bar cabinet stands as a substantial investment. Diverging from bar carts and racks, a bar cabinet offers abundant storage and surface space, a centralized hub for your liquor, cocktail ingredients, wines, and barware. Though larger than typical bar carts or racks, their centralized nature makes them ideal for smaller spaces lacking storage for all these essentials.
“Bar cabinets are often built into specific sections of living or dining spaces,” notes Raili Clasen, an interior designer based in Newport Beach. “These cabinets provide under-counter storage, permanent shelving for showcasing glassware and bottles, and are often connected to a sink and ice maker.”
While bar cabinets serve multifunctional purposes, they need not be mundane. Many options in the market combine functionality with style, catering to a spectrum of decor schemes. From modern to luxurious to budget-friendly, bar cabinets seamlessly integrate into various home layouts and aesthetics.
1. Best in Luxury: Breton Bar Cabinet by Restoration Hardware
Clasen often recommends West Elm’s Mid-Century Bar Cabinet for those seeking a relatively affordable yet stylish option. It is simple yet chic, optimized for internal storage, featuring two standard shelves, four cabinet doors, a wine rack, and glass storage. Crafted from kiln-dried, sustainably sourced wood, it boasts a retro look suitable for mid-century homes to those blending different eras and aesthetics.
While the straightforward and somewhat masculine design of the bar cart may not appeal to those favoring a more feminine or ornate decor style, the wood veneer might pose challenges in keeping the cart itself clean from drips, spills, condensation, and stains originating from bar tools and glassware.
2. Best on a Budget: Portland Glass Wine Buffet by Simple Living
The Portland Glass Wine Buffet by Simple Living comes in vibrant red (ideal for color enthusiasts) and subtle creamy white (perfect for those leaning towards minimalism). Blending country and Hollywood Regency styles, it provides a serious touch to bar storage spaces. Currently priced under $200, it offers an extremely affordable option for those wanting the benefits of a bar cabinet at the price of a bar cart.
Especially useful for wine enthusiasts, the central shelf of the cabinet is best suited for horizontally storing wine. While the bottom two rows of shelves are available for liquor storage, the top shelves are designated for barware storage. For those looking to utilize a plethora of wine bottles, this option might not be the most suitable bar cabinet due to the central shelf.
3. Best in Luxury (Alternative): Breton Bar Cabinet by Restoration Hardware
Restoration Hardware’s Breton Bar Cabinet is the brand’s interpretation of 1940s French Streamline Moderne style, designed by Charlie Zagaroli. Emphasizing geometric shapes and luxurious materials, this cabinet offers a variety of colors and finishes in textured oak to match any design or room. “Natural oak is an excellent material for crafting bar cabinets,” says Clasen, and the Breton cabinet offers light oak, dark oak, and black oak options.
Most notably, the interior features a pull-out shelf versatile for various uses, from mixing cocktails to storing olives and nuts. The drawer below the retractable shelf is an excellent choice for storing bar napkins and small plates, and the mirrored backdrop adds a touch of sophistication. The main drawback of the Breton Bar Cabinet is its price, which can be significantly reduced by joining Restoration Hardware’s membership program. Discounts surpassing twenty percent off the purchase price provide everyday consumers with advantages similar to interior designers.
Each bar cabinet caters to different needs, offering a blend of functionality, style, and affordability. Whether you prioritize luxury, budget-friendly options, or a balance of both, these bar cabinets are sure to elevate your home bar experience. The recommended purchase platforms ensure a smooth acquisition process, allowing you to curate a bar area that aligns seamlessly with your preferences and requirements.
