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f you entertain at home, you should consider installing a bar. In its simplest form it is no more than a place to store all the beverages, glasses and utensils that you may require in one convenient spot. At its best the home bar is the centerpiece of your home entertainment space.

The first step is to think about how you currently use your home for entertaining. Next decide what your vision of how you would like to entertain at home. If you love large parties and long for a space to hold regular gatherings, then consider adding a bar area to an existing rec room. Adding a bar area to a theater room can quickly turn the space into a multi purpose room, ideal for entertaining a crowd for sporting events as well as movie nights. With clever and discrete lighting there wont even be a need for an intermission to refresh drinks and snacks. Try installing under counter lighting, or something unique like an illuminated counter top. Bar stools will also expand your available seating and depending on the quality of your bar snacks they may become the most sought after seats in the house.

With open plan living, and the advent of the great room, the possibilities of large scale entertaining, in even modestly sized homes, has increased. Adding a bar across the room from the kitchen is a great way to instantly improve the flow of a room for a party. Beverages can be kept out of the kitchen area, encouraging people out away from the food, allowing the host or caterers to function more easily.

Once you have decided where your bar will best be located, the next step is to decide on a style. Do you need a fully fledged wet bar? A climate controlled wine fridge? A keg fridge? Soft drinks center and ice machine? Should you include a fully equipped mini kitchen complete with dishwasher, warming ovens or microwaves? Do you have the budget for your dream bar?

For a fully equipped bar it may be worthwhile contacting a professional just as you would with a kitchen remodel. It is a substantial investment of time and money and unless you have the necessary skills, it may be best to at least have a professional design plan to work from.

If after taking a long look at how you use your home, the available funds and space, you realize that your dream bar will have to be scaled back a little, there are still plenty of options available. Many furniture retailers stock freestanding dry bars that work well in practically any space. They are available in a variety of styles and finishes making it easy for you to find the perfect bar for your home. If you only intend to use your bar rarely then opting for something that blends with or compliments your existing furniture or decor may be the best idea. Many have locking doors that make them a great choice for a family home with children.

Regardless of how big or extravagant your bar is, there are a few essentials that you should stock your bar with. Obviously a good supply of glasses in a variety of sizes and types, mixing jugs, cocktail shakers and stirrers are also a great idea. If there is no built in ice machine invest in a good ice bucket and stock it before your party. Keep a good supply of bar towels and napkins to help with clean up in the case of spills. Providing power to run a blender is a great idea if you intend to serve cocktails, and maybe a good recipe book close to hand for those with exotic tastes.

No matter which type of bar suits your style, situation and budget, it is a great way to organize your drinks supplies and to help your next party or gathering go smoothly.

Learn more about this author, Julie Wood.
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