How To Style A Bar Cart

Did someone say shots? 

Have you ever walked into someone’s home and seen a bar cart in the corner? All of a sudden, the air feels richer, the ambience more sophisticated, and you think to yourself “This is one hoity-toity, pish posh home.” However, that's not always the case. In reality, it simply means they appreciate the finer things in life. And, to be completely honest, bar carts rank high on that list.

Bar carts are more than just every alcoholic’s dream come true of a mobile drink station. They’re a statement of style in the most provocative manner. An invitation to unwind if you will. And whether you’re an aficionado of fine wine, a cocktail connoisseur, or someone who simply enjoys with sweet sophistication of a single malt, a bar cart is the quintessential decor object that keeps our spirits high both literally and figuratively. 

Choosing The Right Bar Cart For You:

If you don’t already have one, then the first step is choosing the right bar cart. But it’s not as simple as picking the first option that pops up online. You see dear reader, a bar cart is just as much a part of your home decor as a vase or a candle stand. Therefore, choosing your bar cart needs to be done in the same manner as choosing the rest of your decor by considering two crucial elements - style and functionality.

Start by asking yourself the right questions. Is it too big for the space? Will the bar cart work with my existing colour palette? What about the textures? Do they complement the vaataavaran of the room or is just going to throw completely off balance? These are all style features you must consider before hitting the checkout counter.

Next, think about how much storage space you’d require. How many drinks would you like the cart to accommodate? Will you be moving it around a lot? You see, bar carts have specific designs that meet specific requirements. For example, someone who loves wine would opt for a bar cart with the space and necessary apparatus to hand wine glasses. So you can see how the function is just as important as style in such matters.

Essential Bar Tools:

Like our most beloved areas of the house, i.e., bars, bar carts also have certain essential bar tools that make them as functional as they are stylish. After all, it’s a bar on wheels.

Bar Tools:

Bar tools are the umbrella term that encompasses all the cool gizmo gadgety stuff we see bar tenders pull out to concoct all our favourite cocktails. Items like bottle openers, jiggers, and ice buckets are the fundamental must-haves that every bar cart should have. 

However, if you want to take it up a notch, a good quality cocktail shaker, stainers, and muddlers are nice to have, especially if you’re more of a cocktail person than someone who likes it neat.

Glassware:

Glassware is an entirely different ball game. The type of glassware you showcase on your bar cart speaks volumes about the aesthetic you're aiming for. For instance, elegant and dainty crystal stemware such as wine glasses and champagne flutes are perfect for glamorous interiors, while coloured glassware fits seamlessly into retro spaces. Conversely, clean and simplistic designs are best suited for minimalistic rooms. Therefore, the selection of glasses you choose to display is of utmost importance.

Furthermore, it's crucial to ensure you have enough glassware to accommodate the number of guests you’ll be hosting. Nothing dampens the spirit of a gathering like running short on glasses, so stock up adequately to keep the drinks and the conversations flowing smoothly.

Styling:

Now we’re getting to the good part. We’ve covered all the essentials you’ll need to make the bar cart functional. But how do we make it stylish enough so your bar cart becomes the piece de resistance of your home decor? 

Ingredients to Decor:

Ingredients don’t just have to lie there aimlessly waiting to get used. Rather you can use them as part of your decor, the same way we do for our dining tables. A bowl of citrus and snack bowls filled with nuts and candies, all add pops of colour and character to the bar cart.

Balance:

You need to ensure you balance the top and bottom. 

This goes beyond merely arranging items in a balanced manner. The colours, textures, and specific items you choose for both levels must be thoughtfully balanced to create a cohesive and well-rounded look.

Make Way For Florals:

You can never go wrong by adding fresh or artificial flowers to your bar cart. Adding living things to your bar cart feels intentional and adds a certain je ne sais quoi that makes the cart feel like it’s a part of the room rather than the odd man out.

Less Is More:

If you’re trying to achieve a look that exhibits truly opulent wealth, adhering to the 'less is more' philosophy is key. By removing the clutter and focusing on high-end, essential pieces that add elegance and sophistication to the bar cart, you can achieve a high-end look.

Books:

While books may not be the obvious choice, it is this very reason that makes them a brilliant addition to your bar cart decor. You see, when it comes to interior design, limiting yourself is the worst thing you can do. Incorporating unexpected elements like books adds a unique touch and sets your space apart.

Seasonal Styles:

Seasonally styling your bar cart according to festivals or the time of year adds a dynamic and festive touch to your home decor. For instance, during the winter holidays, you can adorn your bar cart with twinkling fairy lights, sprigs of holly, and a selection of rich, warming liqueurs. In the spring, fresh flowers, pastel-coloured glassware, and light, fruity spirits can bring a sense of renewal and cheer. By adapting your bar cart to reflect the seasons or upcoming celebrations, you create an ever-evolving centrepiece that keeps your space feeling fresh and inviting, and your guests eagerly anticipating what’s next. 

The Bottom Line:

Bar carts are the luxurious necessity we all need in our homes. They are the perfect blend of style and functionality, providing a versatile and elegant solution for entertaining and showcasing your personal taste. So, why not indulge in this stylish trend and elevate your home decor with a bar cart that speaks to your unique sense of style?