Bespoke Home Bar in Southampton and Hampshire

Choosing the kind of home bar

Bars are already included in the bespoke-joinery service. The panelled bar unit shown here is existing VIP Walls work. Its photograph is a useful starting point for discussing a finish, rather than a fixed design that must be copied into a different room.

Counter layout and seating

Allow space to move behind the counter and to pass any stools in front of it. A serving counter and a preparation surface may need different heights. Decide which side will be used for pouring drinks and where glasses will be placed before choosing the depth. A mock layout on the floor makes tight spots easier to see.

If stools are part of the plan, choose them alongside the counter height and overhang. Check knee space and the room needed to move a stool back. Keep the bar clear of doors and the main route through the room. A shorter run with useful storage can work better than a long counter that makes the room difficult to use.

Bottles, glasses and hidden storage

Shelves should be set against the bottles and glasses you actually keep. Tall bottles need clear height, while smaller glassware can use more closely spaced shelves. Open shelving puts things within reach, but doors keep less tidy supplies out of sight. Deep cupboards need an access plan so items at the back are not forgotten.

Think about weight as well as appearance. Bottles and glassware together can be heavy, so the shelf span, supports and wall fixings matter. A mirrored or panelled back can be considered once the shelving positions are agreed. Lighting should make the storage usable without leaving cables visible across the work surface.

Appliances, power and water

A drinks fridge needs the clearances and ventilation stated by its manufacturer. An appliance designed to stand alone is not automatically suitable for a closed cabinet. Confirm the model before setting the opening and leave access to its plug and any service points. Ice makers and other appliances may add further requirements.

A sink changes the job because water supply and drainage need planning. The room location may limit where those connections can go. Electrical and plumbing work should be agreed with the appropriate trades before the joinery is built. A dry bar avoids those connections but still needs a sensible place for preparation and cleaning.

Finishes and home bar cost

A painted panelled front can match other joinery in the house. Timber finishes and worktops should suit the way the bar will be used, including spills and regular wiping. Samples help show the difference between a photograph and the material in the light of your room. Check how exposed edges will be finished.

Home bar cost depends on the cabinet size, shelves, doors, counter material and appliance openings. Plumbing, electrical work and appliances can change the overall budget substantially. Ask for the joinery and any other work to be identified clearly. Compare the same storage layout and finish rather than treating every bar cabinet as an equivalent piece.

Planning the next step

Use the enquiry form on this page to describe the space and the work you are considering. Include the main dimensions, the finish you prefer and anything that needs to stay accessible. A photograph showing the whole wall is more useful than a close-up alone. You can also call VIP Walls to talk through the room before choosing materials.

See also: Related joinery and fitting.