If you’re usually the host with the most, you might be thinking about ways you can create the perfect place to entertain guests in your home.
Some will opt to entertain their guests in the living room or kitchen, but if you’re looking to go one step further – you could elevate your current set up by implementing a garden bar.
But, it can be difficult to know where to start with designing yours when you’re struggling for inspiration. That’s why we’ve highlighted our top five garden room bar ideas, so you can start planning yours as soon as possible. Read on to find out how you can design yours, as well as things you should consider before you do…
- Add a games and activity corner
No pub, bar, or other drinks area is the same without a bit of light-hearted fun. And if you’re looking to be the perfect host, you need to make sure you have the means to keep your guests entertained – especially if you want them to come over again.
One way to make your garden bar stand out with friends and family is to add a games and activity corner. For example, you could hang a dart board on the wall. Or, you can add a small table where you and your guests can play your favourite board and card games.
Remember to have fun with it and pick activities you know you, your friends and family would love.
- Opt for a cosy pub or fancy bar theme
When designing your garden room bar, make sure you choose a theme that best reflects your personality. For example, if you’re someone who loves a pub setting, create a decor that encompasses this aesthetic. Whereas, if you love the sophistication of a bar, opt for a more clean cut, sleek design.
For a pub-theme, choose warmer colours and patterns that are inviting and evoke this feeling. Think warm reds, browns and earthly tones, as well as gold accents – like gold taps and light fixtures. If you’re interested in colour theory, read our blog to apply it to your garden bar.
If you’d rather implement a bar aesthetic, focus on your accessories. Mahogany countertops and vibrant artwork can elevate the space, whilst high-quality glassware will provide an even more refined look.
- Choose insulation for use all-year round
There’s no point implementing a garden room bar if you can’t make use of it all year round. With some outdoor living structures, they might not be as comfortable to sit in when the colder months roll around.
And when it comes to seasonal events like Christmas and New Year’s Eve, you’ll likely want to make the most out of your garden room bar. That’s why it’s important to ensure yours has the right amount of insulation.
Ensure you choose a garden room that has double-glazed windows and doors, as well as insulated floorboards. For example, our bespoke glass rooms use high quality materials to ensure insulation and longevity. You can even pick infra-red heating as an added feature.
- Introduce a mini fridge and drinks cabinet
No garden bar is complete without the drinks to go with it. That’s why you should add a mini-fridge and drinks cabinet to yours. This way, you can have your drinks on display as a real bar would, and also keep white wines, roses, and mixers cool.
Ensure you consider several factors when choosing your mini fridge, such as:
- Available space: How much space does your garden room have for a mini fridge?
- The amount of guests: How many guests will you need to store drinks for?
- Added features: Would it be helpful to include added features – such as a built in ice-maker?
When it comes to your drink storage, choose cabinets with display windows so guests can see the drinks you have on offer. Consider adding shelves as well to combine the perfect mix of floating and fixed features.
- Pick comfy seating
Now you’ve designed your bar and have established your theme, you need to think about garden seating arrangements. Your guests will likely be over for an entire evening, so they need a place to be comfortable.
As such, it’s important that your seating reflects a place where they can relax and put their feet up. If you’ve chosen a pub-look, comfy fabric couches can further support the aesthetic.
If you’ve chosen a bar theme, add bar stools to provide a higher level of sophistication. But, ensure you have a place where guests can sit back comfortably, such as a leather armchair.
Is it legal to have a bar in your garden?
Yes, it is completely legal to have a bar in your garden, and distribute alcohol to guests, friends, and family.
However, you cannot sell alcohol at your bar, as this requires a premise and personal license – even in your own home.
If you’re also wondering whether you need to acquire planning permission for your garden room, read our blog where we discuss it all.
What is the best size for a garden bar?
The best size for a garden bar is entirely dependent on the space you currently have. Furthermore, you should also consider the following factors when you add one to your garden:
- The number of guests: Ask yourself how many guests you’ll likely have over when you host. If the answer is several then you might need to opt for a bigger space.
- Functionality: Assess what features you’ll want to implement into your bar. Do you want to add a drinks’ fridge, a sink, or extra storage? If so, you might need a bigger space.
- Budget: The most important factor to consider when scoping out your garden bar is your available budget. If you have a smaller amount dedicated to the project, it might be best to create a smaller garden bar instead.
Open Space Concepts can help you implement the perfect garden bar
Adding a bar to your outdoor space is an exciting project that can elevate your garden. At Open Space Concepts, we know garden structures are a great way to make a mark on any home.
Whether you’re looking to design a rustic-looking pub, a sophisticated bar, or simply a place where you can relax and have a drink at the end of a long day, we’re here to help.
With over 30 years of experience, you can count on us to deliver a sophisticated and practical structure that meets your every need.
To make an enquiry, simply get in touch via our online contact form or give us a call directly on 0808 168 0043.
