How to Build a Bar: 13 DIY Bar Plans
Who wouldn't want the luxury of drinks and cocktails on-demand in their own home? Once reserved to the rich, there are now easy and cost-effective ways to bring that dream to life.DIY bar plans are simple, easy-to-follow, and often don't require special skills to complete. Ours in particular could be completed in just one weekend with basic tools. Read on to learn how to build a bar that'll be the envy of your friends and family.
Why Build a Bar?
Before we get into explaining how to build your own bar or complex bar blueprints, it's worth addressing the hesitation some might have before committing to a project like this. Why bother building a bar in the first place? Is it really worth it? The short answer is absolutely. DIY bars are a really fun side project that can deliver long term value to passionate drinkers. Commercial establishments also stand to reap literal rewards by investing in a build of their own. In either case, doing it yourself saves time and money while offering a degree of customization that can be hard to come by with prefabricated bars.
Considerations Before Starting Your DIY Bar Plans
Building a home bar is a multistep process that involves lots of planning and many special considerations. Here are a few important things to keep in mind:SpaceWhile determining the size of your build with bar blueprints, measure the size of space you have available and consider how many people may use or hang around it at once.BudgetIt can be very easy to get carried away with bar building plans. Try to keep a level head throughout the process by identifying what you want from the beginning and sticking with it. Set a budget for yourself in advance to keep costs low.TimeMake sure to plan out how much time it will take for each step of your bar build before beginning work. This may look different depending on the type of bar you decide to build, whether you already know how to make a bar, and what tools you have available to you.MaterialsLastly, what materials, tools and supplies will you need? Knowing these in advance is essential to being able to budget things properly while also ensuring that you have the right stuff to get the job done.
How to Build a Bar: Step-by-Step Guide
Amped up and ready to get to work? This section will run you through the basics of how to build a home bar in just a few simple steps.
1. Planning Your DIY Bar
Whether you're confident that you know how to make a home bar on your own or not, taking the time to plan things out ahead of time can save a lot of headaches and potential mistakes down the road. Start by determining the bar's intended location in your home or business. Size, shape, and aesthetics should all be taken into account here. The internet has plenty of inspiring ideas to work off of, although you may find the help of an interior designer beneficial.
2. Gather Materials and Tools
Building a bar at home doesn't have to be a matter of rocket science. It starts with something as simple as picking up basic materials like lumber, plywood, screws, nails, paint, countertop materials, and plumbing fixtures. These items, along with other tools such as saws, hammers, drill bits and screwdrivers are all necessary pieces of the home bar puzzle.
3. Building the Frame
Now for what you first imagined upon reading about the concept of building home bars - hands-on work. This stage will look different depending on your plans, but usually begins with the construction of the bar's frame and internal shelving. Be sure to take precise measurements as you go!
4. Installing the Countertop and Shelves
Next up comes the countertop - plant it on and screw it in. Making a bar goes beyond the surface level though, with shelves and backsplashes also needing to be added as well. These are both relatively easy: the shelves just need some brackets and screws, and for the backsplash you can use tile adhesive to lay out tiles in patterns of your choosing.
5. Add the Bar Front
This is probably the trickiest part of building a home bar. You want to get that front right, as it will be the first people see. Plywood is a good base material. From there, you can add anything from a nice veneer to an attractive tile.
6. Finishing Touches
WIth the majority of your bar design plans complete, now it's time for the finishing touches. Have fun painting, staining, and adding accessories to your homemade creation.
13 DIY Bar Plans
1. Simple Rolling Bar Cart
If you're looking for inspirational home bar ideas, we've got plenty to share. Like this one - a simple rolling bar cart that's as sleek as it is functional.Here are a few reasons why it's worth considering:Space Optimization - Compact designs like this are a must for anyone who plans on using their bar in tight spaces or between indoor and outdoor settings.Ergonomics - Keeping things simple often means keeping them comfortable.Functionality - The straightforward design is easy to replicate and can be adapted for a variety of purposes.Aesthetics - The rustic look is great for people who want to give their bar a timeless elegance.Customization - This concept's simplicity makes it easy to add custom logos and branding messages as needed for your use case.
2. Backyard Bar Plan
Some people choose to build home bars in their backyard to save space indoors. This idea is a great example of that approach done well.Here's why you should consider it:Space Optimization - Clearly divided spaces with designated areas for storage are great for small spaces.Ergonomics - Not too big or too small, the height of this bar ensures comfort while both serving and accessing beverages.Functionality - With multiple storage solutions, shelves for glasses, and a designated space for a cooler box, this bar gives you access to everything you need in one place.Aesthetics - The rustic charm is perfect outdoor settings such as gardens or patios.Customization - The visible sides of the bar give ample space for branding, whether it be a painted logo or engraved message.
3. Simple Coffee Bar
Simple bar plans like this one don't go overboard, instead delivering their value through practical means.Standout features include:Space Optimization - The design makes space for all things coffee, from mugs and machines to filters.Ergonomics - The countertop is high enough to make service and brewing easy.Functionality - The shelves are divided up according to what should be stored where, with a light installed inside for better visibility.Aesthetics - A rustic and industrial vibe makes this bar timeless and gives off a cozy feeling.Customization - Chalkboard panels let you make the bar your own by writing special promotions or daily specials, as well as displaying your brand name.
4. Basement Corner Bar Plan
This is one of our favourite DIY home bar ideas by far. Corner bars are great for so many reasons, and the design featured here isn't an exception.Highlights:Space Optimization - Corner bars like these make great use of space by fitting snugly into squared spaces.Ergonomics - Not only is it cool, but a flip-up liftgate in the bartop provides easy pass-through access for bartenders.Functionality - It's safe to say that this design is decked out, featuring everything from base cabinets and laminate countertop to refrigerator.Aesthetics - Glossy black MDF aprons adorned with decorative cherry appliqués add a visual appeal.Customization - The grid pattern seen in the design can easily be adapted to incorporate your own branding elements.
5. Basic Wet Bar Plan
Maybe you don't want to get into all-out custom bar ideas. In that case, why not go with something like this?It's got lots of great characteristics, including:Space Optimization - Compact and efficient, the bar's simple layout can be tailored to fit various spaces.Ergonomics - All necessities within arm's reach make this a comfortable and convenient workstation.Functionality - Plumbing connections provide running water for drink preparation and clean-up.Aesthetics - The bar's design is versatile and can be customized to fit individual preferences.Customization - The surface and front panels of the bar provide a great opportunity for custom logos, decals, and promotional messages.
6. The 6-Foot Home Bar Plan
When in search of big and comprehensive home bar ideas DIY enthusiasts should definitely consider this six-foot bar plan.Here's just a bit of what it has to offer:Space Optimization - With a length of 72"", a height of 42.5"" and a depth of 24"", it packs all the necessary features into an efficient and compact design, perfect for any home space.Ergonomics - The height is comfortable for most adults, while an added armrest and footrail make it easier to relax and socialize.Functionality - You can never go wrong with lots of storage shelves, counter space, drawers, and sliding wine racks.Aesthetics - This design boasts a classic and elegant look with its solid oak armrest, brass foot rail, and oak plywood construction.Customization - Have a decal or logo to show off? There's plenty of room for it on the front of this bar.
7. Cabinet Bar Plan
Looking to build a bar that's both unique and functional? Look no further than this original Pottery Barn-inspired Chesapeake Bar Cabinet.This bar is sure to be a hit at your next gathering, featuring:Space Optimization - The shelves will easily house your beverages and other bar essentials while taking up minimal floor space.Ergonomics - The smooth-glide drawers and shelves provide easy access for serving drinks or retrieving stored items.Functionality - You'll find plenty of room to store bottles, glasses, ice buckets and more within this bar's well-organized compartments.Aesthetics - The classic design is perfectly suited for traditional settings, while the neutral color palette creates a timeless look.Customization - The sides and front of the bar provide great locations to showcase logos, decals or other promotional messages.
8. L Shaped Bar Plan
If you're planning on building a bar for multiple patrons or an intimate setting, this L-shaped bar plan offers plenty of room to accommodate.Here are some of its best features:Space Optimization - The bar top is designed to spread people out, giving each patron their own space.Ergonomics - The bar is designed with ergonomics in mind; it’s tall enough to stand at and has plenty of counter space for mixing drinks.Functionality - Built with pine 2x4 pieces and plywood, this bar is strong and stable. It also includes a liquor cabinet with shelves, a mini-refrigerator, and an integrated fish tank.Aesthetics - The combination of plywood and redwood give the bar a rustic yet refined look.Customization - The front and sides of the bar are both fair game for logos, decals, and promotional messages.
9. Portable Bar Plan
We've been over a couple simple bar plans at this point, so let's move onto a portable one.This design has lots of great things going for it:Space Optimization - Measuring in at 60"" (w) x 21"" (d) x 48” (h), this bar is great for a variety of places and spaces.Ergonomics - A height like this is perfect for both reaching down and up. Plus, you can easily move the cart around with its wheels.Functionality - The bar is constructed from basic lumber, paneling, trim, stock cabinets and prefab countertops that will stand the test of time.Aesthetics - From traditional to modern, this design can fit a variety of contexts.Customization - With its front and side panels, you can easily place logos, decals or even promotional messages if need be.
10. Wine Bar Plan with Cooler
If only all bar blueprints were as versatile as this one. It's obviously been designed with a great deal of forethought.Highlights and features include:Space Optimization - The bar offers plenty of storage and counter space, plus an opening for a wine cooler or mini-fridge in the centerErgonomics - Its counter height is perfect for easy access to wine bottles, glasses, and the wine cooler.Functionality - The glass holder and diamond wine rack can store up to seven bottles, while three shelves on the left offer extra storage.Aesthetics - This bar's sliding barn-style doors give it a chic and rustic charm.Customization - There are plenty of places to incorporate your logo or name into the bar's front and side facades.
11. Outdoor Tiki Bar Plan
Now for the last of our inspirational home bar plans, the outdoor tiki bar. This fresh take on a classic concept is sure to get guests smiling.Here's a quick overview of what it has to offer:Space Optimization - A smart layout makes this stand practical enough to use as a backyard bar, outdoor kitchen station, and even lemonade stand on weekends.Ergonomics - Like having things within arms reach? Then you'll love how this bar feels as you get to work mixing drinks.Functionality - Removable panels make it possible to transform your bar into a multipurpose shed for supplies and decorations.Aesthetics - Embracing the Tiki theme without going overboard, the design showcases a classic tropical feel that will be sure to make your next party stand out.Customization - The wooden surface is super versatile and spacious enough to accommodate logos of all sizes.
Add-ons to Your DIY Bar Ideas
Nitro Cold Brew Machines
Even following these DIY bar plans to a tee, there's still a chance that your final creation comes off as mediocre. BROOD can ensure it stands out by adding bells and whistles like a nitro cold brew machine. Our professional-grade systems are a sight to behold, with a tankless build and chic design making them a great choice for any homemade bar project. Plus, you get a perfect pour every time - who wouldn't want that?
DRNX
Simple bar plans are brought to the next level by BROOD's DRNX. The base of our series, it hones the power to craft and dispense up to five nitrogen-infused cups of goodness per minute.
DRNX DUO
Even the most impressive DIY home bar ideas can benefit from having DRNX DUO on their countertop. This high-capacity machine comes with not one, but two taps for increased output. Ideal if you plan on serving lots of people at once!
DRNX BRW
If you want a nitro cold brew machine that lives up to your home bar ideas innovation, try DRNX BRW. Sitting at the top of our collection, this self-contained unit comes fully loaded with the ability to brew coffee, as well as dispense nitro-infused and still beverages at the same time.
Mixology Station
Home bar ideas DIY or not deserve great tools and ingredients. We've got the best bartender kit for your bar here at BROOD - it's packed with all of the basics you'll need to mix quality cocktails at home in minutes.
Stock on Cocktail Premixes
Building a bar on your own can be an overwhelming project. From choosing the right materials to finalizing the layout, every detail counts. BROOD's premixed cocktails can guarantee that every drink to come out of your homemade creation is up to par with the hard work put into making it.
Maintaining Your Homemade Bar
So, you've made a homemade bar. You're ready to enjoy it and all the perks that come with DIY bars, from the convenience to the extra space. But before you can kick back with a cold one, it's important to remember a few important things. Take a look at these best practices:Regular CleaningSet aside time every few weeks or so to thoroughly clean the surfaces of your home made bar, including its shelves, glasses, and other utensils.Proper StorageAll of those spirits, mixers, and glasses need to go somewhere. That's at least if you want them to last. Store items in a proper manner to prevent breakage or damage.Maintain Cleanliness During UseIt's a good idea to keep your homemade bar orderly as it's used, washing glasses and putting waste in the trash to avoid unruly messes.Routine Check-ups and MaintenanceDIY bars should be checked for signs of wear and tear regularly. This includes looking for loose screws, splinters or cracks in the wood, scratches on metal surfaces etc. Getting on problems early is essential to preventing them from getting worse down the road.
Conclusion
Do you have what it takes to build bars? Considering the simplicity of the DIY bar plans covered in this article, your answer should be a resounding yes. Just remember that home projects are as complicated as you want them to be. Planning ahead and getting all of your houses in order prior to starting is key. And if all else fails, having a BROOD cold brew machine on hand will surely make up for any missteps made in the construction process.