Imagine transforming a corner of your living space into a stylish, speakeasy-style home bar that transports you back to the roaring 1920s. It’s a space where you mix and serve classic cocktails, from a Gin Rickey to a Rum Runner, at the end of a long day. Sounds enticing, doesn’t it?
In this article, we will guide you through designing a compact home bar that reflects the clandestine charm of the Prohibition Era. We’ll discuss the necessary items and how to incorporate them into your room without overcrowding your space. From the right kinds of glasses to which cocktails to serve, we’ve got you covered.
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Choosing the Perfect Spot for Your Home Bar
A home bar doesn’t require an enormous space. You can install a small and stylish bar in a dining room corner, a kitchen nook, or even a renovated closet. The trick is to optimize your available space and choose a spot that is both functional and visually appealing.
Consider the proximity to electrical sockets if you plan to add a mini-fridge or other electrical appliances. Ensure the selected space is away from areas where children often play. You also might want to pick a spot near a sink for easier clean-up after a great night of cocktail mixing.
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When you have identified the perfect spot, measure the space thoroughly. These measurements will guide your purchasing decisions for the bar furniture and accessories.
Selecting the Essentials for Your Bar
To design a home bar, you’ll need a bar cart or a small table, bar stools, a variety of glasses, and of course, alcohol. The Prohibition Era style will be reflected in the choice of each item.
A bar cart is a great space-saving solution. Opt for a metal or wooden cart with vintage style, reminiscent of the 1920s. The cart should have a flat top for mixing and serving drinks, and shelves or racks below for storing spirits and glassware.
The stools should complement the style of your bar. For a speakeasy-style bar, choose stools with a vintage flair, perhaps featuring leather seats and wooden or metal frames.
Your glassware collection should include whiskey glasses for straight pours and larger glasses for cocktails. Consider adding a few unique, vintage glasses for visual interest.
As for the alcohol, whiskey, gin, and rum were popular during the Prohibition Era. Investing in two or three types of each spirit will allow you to mix a variety of cocktails.
Incorporating Prohibition Era Style
The Prohibition Era was marked by an undercurrent of rebellion against the liquor laws. Speakeasies – secret bars – were lavishly decorated to distract from their illicit activities. You can incorporate this opulence and mystery into your home bar.
Consider using a color palette of black, gold, and deep reds or greens. Art Deco patterns, vintage posters, and antique accessories can enhance the 1920s feel.
Don’t be afraid to go bold with your lighting. Vintage pendant lights or a small chandelier can give your bar a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
Finally, add some Prohibition Era art. Framed vintage photos or prints can create a feeling of authenticity and add to the charm of your space-saving home bar.
Crafting Cocktails with a Prohibition Era Twist
To fully enjoy your speakeasy-style bar, you need to learn to make a few classic cocktails. The Prohibition Era was a time of creativity as bartenders had to mask the taste of poorly made alcohol. Some of the most popular drinks of the time were the Whiskey Sour, the Gin Rickey, and the Rum Runner.
Each of these cocktails requires different types of glassware. The Whiskey Sour is best served in a rocks glass, while the Gin Rickey requires a highball glass, and the Rum Runner, a hurricane glass.
Investing in a good cocktail recipe book will help you explore these and other classic cocktail recipes. You can also find many cocktail recipes online.
Stocking Your Bar with the Right Tools
No home bar is complete without the right tools. A cocktail shaker, a jigger, and a muddler are must-haves. Other useful tools include a bar spoon, a strainer, and a citrus peeler.
These tools will make it easier for you to mix your drinks and add a professional touch to your cocktail making. Make sure to choose tools that reflect the Prohibition Era style.
Remember, designing a home bar is a personal project that should reflect your style and meet your needs. By following these guidelines, you can create a space-saving home bar with a Prohibition Era twist that will surely impress your guests and allow you to enjoy your favorite cocktails in style.
Adornments to Aid the Aesthetic
To enhance the atmosphere of your Prohibition Era inspired bar, consider adorning the space with elements that echo the 1920s. The use of Art Deco design principles is a great way to do this. Art Deco was a popular design style during the 1920s and 1930s, characterized by rich colors, bold geometric shapes, and lavish ornamentation.
Consider adding an Art Deco mirror above the bar cart, providing both a nod to the era and a practical element for the space. Additionally, a vintage clock, a gramophone, or an antique telephone can serve as a unique decorative touch and conversation starter.
Carry the theme further with an ice bucket or a cocktail shaker featuring Art Deco design. Remember, the aim is to create an immersive experience that transports you and your guests back to the United States in the 1920s.
Furthermore, the use of period-specific fabrics for curtains, rugs, or bar stool coverings can enhance your space. Look for patterns and materials that were popular during the Prohibition Era, like velvet and tassels.
Don’t overlook the power of scent in creating a mood. Try burning candles or oils with a smoky or woodsy aroma to simulate the smell of a speakeasy bar.
Hosting a 1920s Inspired Cocktail Party
Once your Prohibition Era themed home bar is fully set up, throw a cocktail party for your friends and family to showcase your new space. Encourage your guests to dress in 1920s-style attire for a fun home experience.
Consider serving tiki drinks, which became popular in the United States in the 1930s as a response to Prohibition. These provide a fun and tropical twist on the classic cocktails of the era. Remember to garnish with lemon juice or a cherry to add an extra touch of authenticity.
For a fun activity, host a cocktail-making class. A good fun home idea is to print out a cocktail recipe for each guest to follow, whether it’s a classic Prohibition Era drink or a tiki cocktail.
And don’t forget the entertainment! Play some jazz or swing music, which was popular during the Prohibition Era, to set the mood.
In Conclusion
Designing a Prohibition Era inspired home bar is an exciting project that blends functionality, aesthetics, and historical charm. With careful attention to detail, you can transform a corner of your living room into a stylish, space-saving wet bar reminiscent of a 1920s speakeasy.
From choosing the right spot, selecting essential furniture and accessories, incorporating Art Deco design principles, to hosting a 1920s inspired cocktail party, you can create a timeless and unique entertainment space.
Finally, remember to enjoy the process as much as the result. Creating and using your home bar should be a fun way to express your personal style, explore cocktail recipes, and spend quality time with friends and family. Cheers to your speakeasy-style home bar!