Get Set for Happy Hour With a Stylish Bar Closet
These 10 hidden bars keep the liquor under wraps and then open up for entertaining
Bar carts and bar cabinets are great, but if you really want to add a splash to your happy hour, perhaps a bar closet is right for you. Whether you convert an old closet or have a new one built, bar closets can be designed across the style spectrum. Let these 10 hidden gems provide some inspiration.
1. Studded success. Designer Lisa Stone created this bar closet for a family room in the suburbs of Philadelphia. The door frame and doors are covered in Old Navy paint from Benjamin Moore. Stone outlined the doors with silver nailheads to add a little panache.
2. Retro chic. Bar closets were a popular feature in many midcentury homes, so designer Ann Lowengart gave a shout-out to Mad Men style by covering the walls of this bar closet in Tiburon, California, with a vintage-inspired wallpaper.
Wallpaper: Scrubs on Gold Pony Skin Foil, Flavor Paper
Wallpaper: Scrubs on Gold Pony Skin Foil, Flavor Paper
3. Golden ticket. This London home is mostly minimalist in decor with white walls throughout, but open up the bar closet and you’ll find a golden surprise. Designer Matt White lined the inside of bar with gold leaf sheets over a vivid pink paint.
4. Hallway hangout. A coat closet for heavy winter outerwear isn’t necessary in Miami’s warm climate, so this sleek entry hallway features a bar closet instead. Designed by 2id Interiors, the bar features a stunning wall of backlighted onyx.
5. Traditional charm. It might sound obvious, but interesting architectural features make for interesting bar closets. This traditional New Orleans home designed by Cockfield Jackson Architects has arched doorways throughout. The addition of vintage doors to the bar closet creates a handsome spot for mixing cocktails.
6. Recessed radiance. This minimalist Washington, D.C., apartment designed by Jacobsen Architecture includes clean lines and custom high-end cabinetry throughout. The sleek bar closet features two doors that pivot and recess into the wall.
7. Cowboy hot spot. If you like the rustic Old West aesthetic but think that adding your own private saloon in your home is a step too far, consider a bar closet decked out with reclaimed wood doors and wire-covered windows instead.
8. Office party. The living room in this San Francisco high-rise apartment includes an entire wall of built-in cabinets designed by Sutro Architects. One of the doors opens to reveal a desk and chair, while another opens to a chic little bar.
9. Reflection point. This elegant penthouse in Milwaukee features stunning city views from every room. Even when you open up the bar closet, the skyline is reflected in the antiqued mirrors covering the doors and back wall of the bar.
10. Open sesame. While a bar closet can do a good job of keeping your liquor out of sight, adding a secret door disguised as a bookshelf will really do the trick.
Using a hardware system from Rixson, the team at Siemasko + Verbridge created a hidden bar behind a bookshelf for this elegant Boston home.
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How to Create a Built-In Home Bar
Photo Flip: Bar Cart Bonanza
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How to Create a Built-In Home Bar
Photo Flip: Bar Cart Bonanza