27 Basement Bars That Bring Home the Good Times!

Designing a dream home is much more than just getting the basics right. From stunning poolside retreats to relaxing sunken lounges, contemporary homes are all about creating a gorgeous getaway right at home. While it’s great to spend a beautiful evening next to the pool as you take in the sights and sounds outside, others might prefer an indoor retreat that lets them kick back and enjoy a lazy, relaxed weekend. And a stylish home bar that completes your basement man cave allows you to have all the fun right at home. The best part is that you never need to worry about the drive back home!

Stunning backlit Honey Onyx counter steals the show here [Design: Vonn Studio Designs]

While many of us might have already contemplated creating a stunning home bar, space is often the biggest conundrum. Today we take a look at some inspired designs where homeowners have turned to the basement to find this elusive additional space. Some of these basement bars are extravagant and others are ergonomic, and they all will leave you thinking about a quick basement renovation.

Chic basement bar takes you back to the 70s! [Design: Kitchen Encounters]

Contemporary basement bar with cool lighting [Design: Wood Inc]

Basement bar complete with a wine cellar [Design: Build Cincinnati of Coldwell Banker]

Smart basement bar makes perfect use of the available space [Design: Advance Cabinetry]

Unique basement bar design with smart lighting [Design: M.J. Whelan Construction]

Wool carpet adds an additional texture to the fabulous basement [Design: Bellano Tile Company]

Classic Pub Ambiance

When it comes to shaping home diners and bars, nostalgia always plays a big role. For those with plenty of space to spare in the basement, think about creating a home bar and a man cave that mimics the ambiance of your favorite pub. Maybe it is that little place down the street that was your refuge during your college days or even all those years ago when you were still a party animal! Picking a similar theme is a safe bet, as you will never feel out of place or bored with it. The hot trend in home bars is to embrace the traditional pub style with exposed brick or stone walls, iron embellishments and traditional lighting fixtures.

Pub style basement bar with a beautiful brick backdrop [Design: M.J. Whelan Construction]

UK Pub inspired basement bar in posh New York home [Design: Crisp Architects]

Stone wall and iron detailing give the basement makeover an authentic feel [Design: Crisp Architects]

You do not need a lot of space for shaping this pub-inspired home bar. Even if you are not planning to bring a pool table and a gaming zone, you can still create the right mood with some neon lighting, the right backdrop and furnishings that have a rustic appeal. Be it a UK pub-inspired home bar or one that is all about ‘Americana’, the atmosphere of the basement will add to the vibe.

Classic basement bar design with a pool table next to it [Design: Hendel Homes]

Add some neon lighting to the traditional basement bar [Design: Residential Systems]

Rustic basement bar crafted from reclaimed wood and brick [Design: Artistic Floors by Design]

Wonderful use of space in the unique home bar creates the perfect man cave! [Design: Eskuche Design]

Time for Fun, Games and More

The basement bar transforms into an even more enticing option when you turn it into a fun hangout. How you choose to extend this space and integrate it with the rest of your basement design depends on both your needs and interests. If you love a glass of wine along with your favorite page turner, a cozy basement living area next to the bar is a cool choice. Add a smart entertainment center or even a simple dining space for two, and you have a romantic escape right at home! Those planning for amazing weekend parties with friends and family can bring a pool table or a foosball table, along with some comfy seating to create a basement party zone.

Exquisite basement bar and living idea [Design: Kyle Hunt & Partners]

Great bar stools for the contemporary home bar [Design: U.K. Gill Homes]

Turn the basement into a cool hangout for weekend parties [Design: Moss Building and Design]

Having a basement bar takes care of many of the party essentials that you need, and it makes use of the forgotten basement space. Picking a color palette and materials that are similar to the hangout next to basement bar ensures that it seems like one large, extended area and gives it a spacious appeal. Since basements generally require additional care when it comes to illumination, make sure you have several layers of accent and ambient lighting.

Vapor bar stools for the modern basement bar [Design: Jan Gleysteen Architects]

Trendy use of gray and red in the stylish basement bar [Design: JG Development]

Basement bar with a foosball table and relaxed hangout next to it [Design: Brunelleschi Construction]

Elegant basement hangout with bar and wine cellar [Design: Scott Christopher Homes]

Smart, Space-Savvy Solutions!

Still worried about space constraints when it comes to incorporating a basement bar? Well, we assure you that with the right planning and creative, space-saving cabinets and design solutions, you can turn even the tiniest corner into a snazzy home bar. For starters, make use of all the vertical space that is on offer. Look towards the space under the staircase as an opportunity to shape the stylish bar. Remember that it is often the smaller home bar designs that look far more attractive than extravagant ones with large counters and islands! It is the ambiance, mood, lighting and the accessories that truly define a beautiful basement bar and not its size.

Beautiful basement bar makes use of space under the stairs [Design: Luxurious Living Studio]

Gorgeous craftsman style basement bar with a cheerful ambiance [Design: Board and Vellum]

Small contemporary basement bar design [Design: Urban Abode]

Before committing to any basement additions, always plan for an alternative exit to the basement and other safety features that the space needs. In many regions of the world, you might also need the necessary approvals or permits before you start the project. But once you have these sorted out and the basement bar is in place, expect your weekends to fly by as a dreamy blur…