Homemade Wet Bars

Decide what kind of wet bar you want. Wet bars can come in all sizes and several different shapes. Some are like a butler's pantry, a wall of cabinets equipped with bar snacks as well as an array of alcohols, while others are more akin to closet spaces with a waterline installed. Factor in your preferences, the space available in your home, and your budget.

Identify the spaces where you might want to install your wet bar. Once associated with basement spaces, wet bars are now more common in high-traffic areas like the kitchen or in a space just off the living room, dining room, or family room. Home-built wet bars are usually 42 inches tall and 24 inches deep.

Consider the type of bar you want. A free-standing bar space with a counter is a versatile option because it can double as an additional dining space or even extra counter space, especially if you plan to install the wet bar in or near the kitchen. Weigh the benefits of a free-standing island bar or a peninsula shape.

Consider the electrical capacity of your home and the area you want to install your wet bar. If you want to equip your wet bar with appliances such as ovens and blenders, you'll need to have an adequate number of outlets and enough power not to overload your circuit breaker.

Consider your waterline. A sink is a useful feature of a wet bar. It's not strictly necessary, but it makes clean-up much easier and more efficient than running back and forth to the kitchen sink. If you want only a very small wet bar, you could convert a closet or small space next to a bathroom or laundry room, because you would be able to use the existing plumbing to install a sink.

Plan what accessories or equipment you want to stock your wet bar with. You'll need sets of glassware and stemware, for starters, and a few extra corkscrews. You'll need drawers and cabinets to store your new items as well.

For an elaborate wet bar, you might want an additional oven, toaster, or other cooking appliance for preparing food to go with the drinks. Choose a blender and other equipment such as a martini shaker.

Plan to stock your wet bar with your choice of alcohol, but have a variety of options available to accommodate your guests' preferences.