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Design Dilemma
msjames021

Basement Bar Design

11 years ago
last modified: 11 years ago
We are renovating our unfinished basement and it will include a bar (108x87). The bar will include: 1) a wall of cabinets (124x108) with a fridge, sink and 2 wine racks stacked one on top of the other, 2) a nook (12x30) with shelving above for bottles, and 3) a peninsula (33x73).

The first and second attachments are a design I created based on inspiration from Urban Abode (
May Basement Renovation · More Info
). The upper cabinets are 27x44. Should I increase this size to 30x44, which is the width of the cabinets in the inspiration bar? The inspiration bar is 8' long. Mine is 9' long. I am worried about not enough counter space. My husband does not want shelving over the sink.

The sink and faucet are another Houzz inspiration (
Lincoln, RI - Kitchen Remodel · More Info
).

Instead of the 2 tier traditional bar, we are opting for a 33x73 peninsula with a waterfall on the side (
Projekt Keil · More Info
). Counter top will be whitish quartz and supported by a bank of vanity cabinets (21x71). What are your thoughts on a 1 level bar instead of a 2 tier bar? The third attachment is an aerial view, which includes the peninsula, wall of cabinets and nook.

Cabinets will be salem solid maple thunder (
Elite Kitchens · More Info
).

I appreciate any comments or ideas regarding layout, color or cabinet style!
Featured Answer
  • 11 years ago
    I would not put in a peninsula that has two levels. And, I would leave it open, no cabinetry under it...that makes it look too much like a kitchen.

    I recommend a bar hight solid surface..that continues on the side...waterfall style...no legs. It would accommodate the leaning or seated guests..and plenty of counter space. It would look more high end...and not so much like a kitchen.

    Countertops granite or marble=mirrored, glass tile or complimentary stone and glass combo. If your fridge is stainless steel, it would be beautiful to have the stainless steel tile as a modern option (the more you stay with similar finishes, the less busy it will look and will stay in style). Keep the grout in same tone...do not choose high contrast grout. If you choose glass or stainless tiles, make sure you take the one with "no sand" or it will ruin your surface. Also, if you are using a clear or frosted glass, make sure to paint your wall the colour of the adhesive because the grooves of the trowel will show through.

    I personally would not use a mirror for a backsplash...it will show every minute bit of dirt...and the ugly side of whatever appliance you might want to put on there.

    Get your wall wired up asap if you think you will be putting a TV above the sink. I think the countertop space around the sink is sufficient....you don't want to have your small bar sink look lost on a larger surface. Further, a 1/2 dishwasher is a must! So is a microwave for popcorn...or heat up a slice of pizza etc. Put the microwave in a cabinet..or make it look built in.

    Wire up the glass enclosed shelving to offer lighting on the counter for drink prep.

    I would get ride of the wine rack at the bottom. These are usually used to show off your wine collection, or at least have easy access to the bottles...both of which if in that location will not do it for you. Maybe above the sink from the top sides of both cabinets..2 or 3 rows...and that would give you a spot to have lighting under the wine rack....and you still would have space for a TV.

    From an opinionated friend

    Comments (20)

    • 11 years ago
      Gray and black color with modular kitchen....looks good
      msjames021 thanked bobby 099
    • 11 years ago
      Design looks great. I really like the two level peninsula. What are you putting above the sink instead of shelves?
      msjames021 thanked mick50

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    • 11 years ago
      mick50, we are stilling trying to decide on what to put above the sink (TV, mirror, glass tiles). Do you have any suggestions?
    • 11 years ago
      A few thoughts:
      1) the X style wine racks are rather difficult to use. If you need the bottle in the middle or bottom of a section, you're left with having to move all others - noisy, not great for the wine, and a possible hazard. I'd recommend the cubbie style.

      2) you don't show any drawers (even top drawers) in your cabinets. Keep in mind the need to have things like corkscrews, bottle openers, utensils etc accessible.

      3) 44" height is generally non-standard in kitchens. Most likely you'll be able to find 42" cabinets, unless they will be completely custom built. Or you could get cabinets that are a bit taller, with drawers at the bottom...great place for those corkscrews!

      4) there are advantages and disadvantages to either kind of bar. With one height, you have a larger, smooth expanse of countertop, but it can be awkward for people to hang out there without sitting. Having the upper level is good elbow height, but would eliminate the possibility of doing the waterfall edge. It's really a matter of personal preference.

      Good luck with the project!
      msjames021 thanked annmarie2
    • 11 years ago
      Annmarie2, thank you for your ideas and input! 1) I couldn't agree more with the X wine racks. I suggested the change to my husband, but he prefers to X. 2) The island cabinets will have drawers. 3) Only the upper cabinets will be custom at 44". My husband does not like the tall upper cabinets with the drawers at the bottom. 4) Good point about the elbow height counter. We will have to reconsider this.

      Thank you once again!!
    • 11 years ago
      Thank you Vallieres! Based on your suggestions, we are adding a dishwasher, backsplash to match the appliances, and shelving with pot lights above the sink. We are also thinking about the 1 level bar height counter without cabinets underneath. I need to find a picture to get a visual. Thanks again for your suggestions!!!
    • 11 years ago
      How about a wine fridge?
    • 11 years ago
      We won't have any room for a wine fridge. Instead of the "X" wine storage unit, we are going to use the metal wine pegs.
    • 11 years ago
      Vallieres, I found some pictures of bar height solid surface countertops and my husband likes the idea! Thank you!!
    • 11 years ago
      last modified: 11 years ago
      I thought you might not have room but I was wondering if it can go under the peninsula.
      msjames021 thanked suzanne_m
    • 11 years ago
      Hi Suzanne_M, we purchased a Danby Silhouette DPC6012BLS (can't find a picture in Houzz), which has an ice maker and 2 separate compartments (1 for cans/bottles, 1 for wine). Thank you for the suggestion!
    • 11 years ago
      This is a picture of the bar fridge.
    • 11 years ago
      Having the ice-maker is a very good idea. Will you be able to insert it under the peninsula?
      msjames021 thanked suzanne_m
    • 11 years ago
      The ice maker is built into the fridge (bottom left).
    • 11 years ago
      last modified: 11 years ago
      I meant, will you be able to insert the fridge under the peninsula or is it going to replace the fridge you had initially mentioned in your dilemma that you plan on installing it on the wall?
    • 11 years ago
      Based on a suggestion from Vallieres, we keeping the space open under the peninsula open. Similar to
      Penthouse · More Info
      and
      Contemporary Home Bar · More Info
    • PRO
      11 years ago
      Looks fantastic! Don't forget affordable LED Lighting!
    • 11 years ago
      It's going to look like a classy bar. Countertops you found are beautiful.
      All the best.
    • 11 years ago
      Has anyone seen a Seura vanishing TV mirror? If so, what are your thoughts? I would like to put one between the 2 upper cabinets. [houzz=
      The Art of Balance, Séura Entertainment TV Mirror · More Info
      ]
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