20 Basement Bars That Make Staying In Something To Cheers To

Basement Bar Ideas — Design: EMILY HENDERSON AND BRADY TOLBERT Photo: SARA TRAMP

As much as we miss being able to pop into our local pub and purchase an overpriced drink, the ritual of going out for cocktails has actually never been completely foolproof. From the cover charge to the lines and limited seating, the truth is, your favorite drink tastes much better in the comfort of your own home. Instead, we suggest creating the ambiance of your neighborhood watering hole (minus the spilled drinks) with your very own, fully-stocked basement bar.

Whether you're working with tons of square footage or looking to convert the unused space in your dark corner, here's how to create the perfect place to hold the necessary liquor, spirits, and accouterments. Ahead, 20 basement bar ideas that make staying in something to cheers to.

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The Corner Pub

We bet you didn't think you could transform your basement into the best corner bar in town, did you? Working on a corner space, like this basement setup, allows your to maximize space without taking up too much room. Some wraparound shelves, a sink, mini fridge, and some stools is all you need to set up your at-home cocktail lounge.

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The Basement Bar Makeover

If you have the money and space to build a full-on wet bar in your basement, this is the inspiration you need. The black-and-white palette, center island with wooden bar stools, and emerald cabinets look upscale and modern. You'll never need to hit the hottest bar in town again — because it's in your basement.

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The Renter-Friendly Bar

Believe it or not, a gorgeous bar like this one doesn't always require the work of a professional contractor. Some clever peel-and-stick tiles on your backsplash and floor will give you the look of a high-end cocktail lounge without the expensive renovations.

The Home Depot Metro Campagnola White Peel and Stick Decorative Mosaic Wall Tile Backsplash $27.00

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The Island Bar

If you have the space, installing an island with barstool seating will make all the difference in the ambiance of your bar. Plenty of seating and standing room, paired with tons of counter space for setting your drinks down will ensure you can entertain without worrying about accommodating your guests.

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The Upscale Hangout

If you're committed to transforming the better half of your basement into the hangout of your dreams, this is the image you'll want to show your contractor. From the full-size wine fridge to the hanging TV and plenty of space to sit, this is where you'll spend most (if not all) of your time entertaining your friends and family.

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The Built-In Cocktail Nook

Every basement has that narrow nook with just a bit of cabinet storage. A fun wallpaper print, shelves stocked with a new set of drinking glasses, and a mini fridge is all you need to give this underserved space a whole new function.

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The Simple Snack Bar

If you have a spare wall in your basement, you can install stylish pit stop for drinks, snacks, and sweets. Install some built-in cabinets with a sturdy countertop, and install some shelves for tons of storage. Display drinkware, candy jars, and cocktail essentials for a space that satisfies your eyes and your taste buds.

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The Stylish Watering Hole

If you're concerned filling the space in your basement with a bar will look like a masculine man cave, think again. This storage space with a faucet and drinkware feels more like a glamorous spa than a basement bar, thanks to the neutral color palette and modern accents.

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The Colorful Cantina

Basements don't need to look dark and dingy and this colorful wet bar is proof. Hang wallpaper in a bright print on your back wall and paint cabinets in an equally cheerful hue. Additions of gold and brass accessories and shiny marble makes even the darkest, most outdated basement look like a colorful cantina.

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The Well-Lit Underground Pub

When you're working in an underground space, lighting makes all the difference. This home bar utilizes all sources of light for an upscale feel. From the overhead industrial chandelier paired with recess lighting, and the under-the-bar accent light to the neon sign on the wall, this space shines a light on all the ways you can brighten up your dark basement.

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The Built-In Wine Cellar

At-home wine cellars aren't just reserved for mansion dwellers. This built-in setup, featuring an L-shape bar and modern bar stools is just the place to enjoy your cabernets and moscatos. The back wall, complete with hooks to display all your favorite vinos, makes you feel like you're tucked away in your very own wine cellar.

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Under-The-Stairs Minibar

There's almost always an awkward space under basement stairs that's difficult to transform into a useful space. Luckily, this is just the inspiration you need to make use of every square inch on your ground level, even the nook under your stairs, and turn it into a mini watering hole.

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The Secret Speakeasy

Most basements have a tiny closet to hide even more clutter. Instead of using it as a junk closet, clear it out and transform the inside into a beautiful bar.

Install mirrors, hang up some shelves, and plug in a mini fridge before stocking up on a variety of wines and liqueurs.

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The Closet Cocktail Lounge

If you're lucky enough to have a large closet (probably one with sliding mirror doors), you have an opportunity to turn it into your very own closet cocktail lounge. Add a counter space, storage cabinets, and of course a mini fridge to keep your spirits cool. An overhead shelf is just what you need to display your favorite liquors. Get extra points when you dress it up with a marble print contact paper.

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The Carry-All Bar Cart

This one goes out to all you dwellers with tiny basements. A fully stocked bar doesn't need to cost a fortune or take up a lot of room. You can source a rolling cart at a flea market or second-hand store or buy a plain one for cheap. Keep it stocked with gilded barware, gorgeous glasses, wine options, and sparkling mixers, and roll it out when guests pile in.

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The Bookcase Minibar

If you have a basement packed with unused furniture waiting to find new purpose, chances are you have a bookshelf hiding in a dark corner. Clear off those shelves and stock it with your favorite spirits. And voilà, you have yourself a bar.

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The Cocktail Credenza

Basements were made to act as a storage space, but that doesn't mean it has to be cluttered. A credenza is a perfect place to organize and hide all your seasonal decor, sports gear, and more in a pretty way. Plus, the surface is the perfect place to set up a tray, a collection of drinks and handy barware for the do-it-all space you go to when entertaining guests.

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The Classic Bar Setup

This minibar decorated in a neutral color palette and granite countertops feels clean and classic. The cabinets with windows displaying a variety of cocktail glasses just adds to the ambiance.

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The Floor-To-Ceiling Cantina

If you're lucky enough to have a wet bar in your basement, don't stop there. Instead, install some hanging shelves for even more liquor storage. Display your martini and cocktail glasses along with some beautiful carafes and your basement will beat any bar in town.

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The Bar Shelf

The sprawling marble counters and navy island in this wet bar are gorgeous, sure, but the wall-and-ceiling-mounted shelf displaying a variety of liquors is a centerpiece all its own. Whether you have tons of square footage or a single wall to spare, a vertical shelf is turning out to be one of our favorite ways to store bottles.

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