Economical ways to build a bar at home
Adding a bit of 'Cheers' post-pandemic
The worldwide pandemic of 2020 to 2022 changed the way consumers interact in non-essential businesses. According to Fortune, more than 110K eating and drinking establishments were closed in 2020 alone, most of which never re-opened.
The good news is the foodservice industry is forecast to reach $997 billion in sales in 2023. Clearly, one group of consumers is excited to go back to mixing and mingling with the public. Another group under 65 may be on the fence about whether they need a second booster shot before they hang out like it’s pre-pandemic. And remote workers are dodging Corporate America like it comes with a COVID-19 diagnosis regardless.
Either way, all three groups may still be enjoying the do-it-yourself, interior design trends that were all the rage during social isolation. One idea: Building the kind of bar that they used to enjoy lounging in with friends and the public. With or without Sam, Norm and Rebecca, here are a few ideas to create “Cheers” from home.
Where should the home bar be?
In cities like Chicago, sipping on a drink outside and enjoying the lakefront breeze can be comforting. But in hot-climate cities, the bar furniture will matter as much as which patch of grass the bar will be placed on in the backyard. Prioritize a stone-masoned base and a weather-resistant teak or cedar top for hot days outside. Otherwise, those chairs and that bar table will be too uncomfortable to lounge in. Indoor bars have more temperature flexibility. Custom stonework or a copper countertop are both aesthetically pleasing and durable. Consider washable pillowcases and colorful arrangements to make it even more inviting (and clean).
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How much does the home bar cost?
Bar chairs can cost anywhere from $159 to $1.3K, which is largely dependent on chair construction, fabric and style. If built outdoors, choose heat-resistant chairs (ex. polywood) for longer relaxation. Traditional patio furniture (ex. wood chairs or wicker chairs) is another alternative. Professional contractors guesstimate around $350 per linear foot for a basic professional install, but there are a myriad of factors that can reduce or increase that estimate.
Should it be a wet bar or a dry bar?
Because a wet bar has plumbing, using a room with a sink (basement or kitchen) would be an easier option and less costly. If a wet bar is added to a room with no plumbing, add on plumbing expenses. Depending on the county, construction permits may be needed as well. Dry bars are much simpler. Plug in a portable fridge or install a wine rack, get a few bar stools and a table, and enjoy hosting.
Is it legal to have a home bar?
Condo associations may have wording in the rules clarifying that no for-profit business can happen in a condo unit — even if it’s resided in by the owner. As long as the home bar is being used for hosting and not the actual remote job, a home bar should be OK. If the homeowner chooses to install an in-home bar as an Airbnb perk, make sure to follow state laws. (In Chicago, a Special Event Liquor License is not required for a private party. However, if the bar starts being used to entertain the public and as a business investment, look into getting a liquor license beforehand.)
As long as homeowners know how the in-home bar can and cannot be used, this add-on can be a hearty return on investment for the long run. Even better, it avoids worrying about 15% or 20% tips, rude bartenders (hey, Carla!), and weirdos trying to sit next to them at a nearby stool.
Writer’s note: A variation of this story focused on renters, specifically who live in Texas and Florida, can be found here in Go4Rent Magazine.
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