Building a built-in bar cabinet is a great way to introduce additional storage space, functional surfaces, and stylish accents to any home. The process of customizing, designing, and building a bar cabinet into a room can take a little bit of time and effort, but the results are worth it.
Here is a step by step guide to follow if you want to build a built-in bar cabinet:
1. Collect Plans & Design the Cabinet: Begin by researching similar projects and gathering a few designs or plans that you may want to base your own design off of. Consider the specific space, purpose and desired aesthetic of the bar cabinet and adjust these plans as needed.
Once you have a plan chosen and laid out, use a tape measure to determine the exact dimensions and account for any irregularities in the shape or nooks that the bar may fit into.
2. Choose the Wood & Stain: Lay out the plans of the cabinet and determine the best quality grade of wood that is within your budget. The most popular options include hardwood, birch plywood, and particle board.
Plywood is the best choice for a base as it is more durable and resistant to moisture, but particle board is better for curved or angled shapes. Once you have selected the wood, you will need to select a finish or stain to add character, color, and durability.
Consider the décor of the room where the bar will be placed and choose a stain that complements the rest of the room without being too overpowering.
3. Build the Cabinet: Follow your blueprint and begin by assembling the main parts of the cabinet. Use quality wood glue and/or craftsmanship nails or screws to join the pieces. Be mindful of the weight of the wood and use heavy duty screws or brackets to reinforce the structure.
Plywood is the best choice for a foundation and you may want to use a bit of spackle and sanding to create a seamless finish. Once complete, the cabinet will either consist of a full-length one-piece unit, or two separate pieces that frame the cabinets on two sides.
4. Attach the Cabinet: Once built and sanded, you can begin attaching the cabinet to the wall. Start by measuring the placement of the cabinet, and then drill screw holes into the studs for attaching.
Remember that the weight of the cabinet will be heavier once the shelves and bottles are loaded, so make sure that the mounting brackets and screws are properly secured. Take your time and use quality hardware and fasteners so that your bar cabinet is steady and safe.
5. Install the Shelves & Add Accessories: After mounting the cabinet securely to the wall, you can begin installing adjustable or fixed shelves. Many cabinets also come with doors and drawers, so you may want to adjust the height of the shelves to accommodate any doors or drawers that may need to be hung.
Keep in mind that you will need room to open the doors and drawers, so make sure that the shelves are spaced properly. Finally, add any additional accessories such as a wine rack, decanter, glasses, lighting, and more to give your bar its own unique feel.
How much does it cost to build a bar counter?
The cost of building a bar counter depends on several factors, such as the materials used and the size and complexity of the bar. Generally speaking, if you are going to build a standard bar counter with simple materials, you can expect to spend between $500 and $2,000.
However, if you want a higher-end build with more elaborate materials, such as granite countertops and stainless steel finishings, the price is likely to be much higher. In addition, you will also need to factor in the cost of labor, which can range from $50 to $100 per hour depending on the complexity of the project.
What kind of wood should I use for a bar top?
The type of wood you choose for a bar top depends on your personal tastes and preferences; however, there is a variety of woods available that can be suitable for bar tops. Woods such as hardwood, including oak, mahogany, cherry, and walnut are both strong and aesthetically pleasing and are popular choices for bar tops.
Even though they stand up well to daily use and wear and tear, they can also be easily refinished to retain their beautiful appearance. Pine and cedar are also good options for bar tops, particularly if a more rustic or distressed look is desired.
As a bonus, pine and cedar are often less expensive than hardwoods. Bamboo is another great option for bar tops, as it is both renewable and highly durable. It is also easy to maintain and clean. Ultimately, the decision is personal, and it is important to think about the style and look you want for your bar space before selecting a material.
Can you make a bar top out of plywood?
Yes, you can make a bar top out of plywood. Plywood is a strong and cost-effective material that can make a great bar top when covered with a protective coating. Building a bar top out of plywood requires the plywood cut to the desired size and shape.
The plywood should be sanded down to remove any imperfections before applying a sealer. Next, a protective coating such as marine grade finish or varnish should be applied. Depending on the finish you choose, several coats may need to be applied for a lasting finish.
Finally, a damp cloth should be used to buff the bar top and then the bar top is ready for use. However, to ensure durability, it is advised that regular maintenance be performed on the bar top to keep the protective coating in perfect condition.
What can I use for an outdoor bar top?
Outdoor bar tops can be made from a variety of materials, depending on your preference and budget. A popular option is concrete, as it is durable, affordable, and easy to maintain. You can also choose natural stone, such as granite or sandstone, which will provide a luxurious look to your bar top and will last years in any climate.
Alternatively, composite decking materials, like Trex and Seven Trust, offer a low-maintenance, long-term choice, and come in a variety of colors and textures. For a more rustic style, wood countertops are a great option, and if you’d like something more modern, stainless steel counters can provide a sleek and stylish finish.
How do you make a 2×6 bar top?
To make a 2×6 bar top, you will need to gather the necessary supplies and materials. First, select the type of 2×6 board material you want to use for the bar top, such as spruce, pine, oak, or birch.
Once you have selected the board material, you will need to measure and cut the boards to the desired length. When cutting, it is important to make sure you are using a saw that is suited for the material you are using (such as a handsaw, circular saw, chop saw, or miter saw).
Additionally, you may wish to use a jigsaw, joiner, or router to make cuts and edges to create the desired look.
Once the boards are cut, you will need to prepare the surface of the boards by sanding and/or staining with a chosen finish. This will will not only enhance the appearance of the bar top, but also provide durability and protection.
If you are planning on adding a sealant to the bar top, you may want to apply a wood conditioner first. Depending on your desired finished look, you may wish to use a more specialized sealant such as beeswax, linseed oil, or teak oil.
The next step is to assemble the boards to form the surface of the bar top. If you are creating a flat bar top surface, you can simply use wood glue or a construction adhesive to attach the boards together at the edges.
You may also opt to use 13mm or 19mm pocket hole screws to attach the boards from the underside of the bar top. Screws are recommended if you plan on creating a more unique design for the bar top, such as a rounded or curved shape.
Once the boards are assembled and secured, you may want to complete a final sanding to address any areas where glue may have seeped out of the joints. You may also want to use a more fine-grit sandpaper to give the bar top a smoother finish.
Once the bar top is complete, you can then add any desired features or decor that you’d like, such as a foot rail, tray rail, or a custom logo!.
Does adding a basement bar add value?
Adding a basement bar can be a great way to add value to your home. Not only does a basement bar provide an inviting and cozy environment for entertaining guests, but it also adds extra usable living space to your home.
This is an attractive feature for potential buyers as well as renters if you plan to rent out your basement bar.
Basement bars can add to the aesthetics of the home, too. Creative and modern basement bars can range from a restaurant-inspired setup to a quaint and cozy home bar. Adding a custom bar to your basement immediately adds character and style to the home.
Such an addition can be a great conversation starter with friends, family, and potential buyers.
Adding a basement bar can be a great value-adding idea, provided it is done in the right manner. For example, one should choose the right materials and fixtures to last for years while still matching the overall theme of the home.
This can be an important selling point for potential buyers, so take time to choose quality materials that are durable and attractive.
Also, research local zoning laws and regulations that could limit your options for adding a basement bar. Depending on the state, city, or county you live in, you could face strict zoning and licensing laws that restrict the size and type of basement bar you are allowed to build and use.
In conclusion, adding a basement bar can be a great way to add value to your home if done in the right way. Not only is it attractive and inviting, but it can also add extra living space and unique aesthetic to your home.
To make the most out of this value-adding project, choose quality materials while making sure to follow local regulations and laws on building a basement bar.
What adds the most value to a home?
The simplest and most cost-effective way to add value to a home is to make it look and feel more appealing. Simple upgrades such as giving the home a fresh coat of paint, improving the landscaping, and sprucing up the interior with modern, interesting decor, can all go a long way in boosting the home’s appeal.
Additionally, investing in basic improvements such as upgrading or replacing major appliances or adding energy efficiency upgrades can also add value to a home. More costly but often worthwhile investments include remodeling the kitchen or bathrooms, replacing old windows, expanding the living space with an addition, or converting an unfinished basement or attic space into useful living space.
Although these types of projects require more time and money, they typically provide the highest return on investment and add the most value to a home.
Should I put a bar in my basement?
This is a difficult question to answer without knowing more about your basement and your personal preferences. However, in general, putting a bar in your basement can be a great way to entertain guests and create a more festive atmosphere in your home.
If you have the space and the budget, adding a bar to your basement can be a great addition to your home.
Is a wet bar outdated?
The answer to this question varies depending on the context and style of the home. While many people may consider a wet bar to be dated and outdated, others may find it to be an elegant and stylish addition to their home.
Ultimately, the choice to have a wet bar in the home should be based on personal preference as well as the overall decorative style of the home.
A wet bar can be a great benefit for someone who enjoys hosting parties or having guests over for an evening. It provides a convenient area for guests to mingle and mix drinks. Moreover, with today’s modern appliances and technologies, wet bars can be designed to fit with any type of home, from a classic and traditional style to a more modern and contemporary feel.
On the other hand, a wet bar can feel outdated if it does not match the look and feel of the rest of the house. In this case, it can be a good idea to consider other options such as a wine bar or a kitchen island with a bar sink.
Ultimately, whether or not a wet bar is outdated depends on personal preference and the overall design of the home.
How much value does a walkout basement add?
The addition of a walkout basement can add substantial value to your home. The extra living space can be used for an additional bedroom, living room or rec room, or even for storage or an office. Having the extra square footage can increase the market value of the home and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
Moreover, having a walkout basement will make the home more desirable due to the added privacy and easy access to the back yard/outdoor space.
Walkout basements also add increased energy efficiency to your home. The basement will help insulate the house and prevent cold air from entering, allowing you to save money on your energy bills. Many walkout basements also feature large windows, allowing natural sunlight to naturally brighten up the space and further reduce the need for artificial lighting.
Overall, a walkout basement can add a great deal of value to your home. It can provide additional living space for for yourself or for potential buyers, and it can help to insulate your home, reducing energy costs and making it more comfortable to live in.
How deep is a standard bar top?
The standard depth of a bar top is typically between 14 and 16 inches. The optimal depth can depend on the size and layout of the bar, as well as the preferences of the owner. For example, a larger and busier bar may benefit from a deeper bar top to give customers more space for their drinks, glasses, and other items.
On the other hand, a small and quieter bar may prefer a shallower bar top to give the bar a slightly cozier feel. Additionally, some owners may choose to add a foot rest to a deeper bar top to make it more comfortable for customers who are sitting or standing at the bar.
Ultimately, the depth of a bar top is something that should be considered when designing the space, taking into account the specific needs of the bar and the preferences of the owner.
What is the bar top finish?
The bar top finish refers to the type of material used on the top/working surface of a bar. This material is typically applied to give the bar a protective layer and also to enhance the aesthetic look of the bar.
Popular bar top finishes include wood veneers and laminates, copper, stainless steel, stone, synthetic, concrete, and laminate. When selecting a finish for the bar top, it is important to consider the purpose of the bar, the budget, and the durability of the material.
Wood veneers and laminates are typically a cost-effective choice and offer greater design flexibility. Copper and stainless steel are popular options due to their durability and resistance to scratches and stains.
Stone and concrete are a great way to add texture and character to the bar, but they do require significant maintenance to stay looking their best. Synthetic finishes are a great alternate to natural materials, offering an even more durable, but custom look.
Laminate is a great option for budget-conscious projects as it is relatively inexpensive and available in a wide range of colors and styles.
