Goldie Hawn's French-style home bar is a 'sophisticated alternative' to a traditional bar cart

Grace Guck, clubhouse manager at the Edgartown Yacht Club, and her fiancé, Josh Cotterill, transformed an old Kingston horse trailer into a mobile upscale bar named "The Rolling Bar" for special events. This innovative solution addresses the common issue of makeshift bar setups at outdoor weddings and other events, particularly in scenic locations like the Vineyard where traditional facilities may be lacking. Guck, with her extensive experience in wedding and event planning, recognized a need for a more organized and aesthetically pleasing beverage service option, akin to the growing popularity of food trucks. The conversion process involved significant work. Josh Cotterill, an electrician, handled the wiring to establish a low-voltage lighting system powered by a battery, making the bar operational even in areas without electricity. He also incorporated low-voltage bistro lights to enhance its festive appearance. His cousin, Eric Toole, contributed carpentry skills, crafting a back bar from live-edge oak sourced from a Vermont mill, which was then beautifully finished. This custom back bar includes backlit shelving for bottle displays and a countertop for mixing drinks. The interior of the trailer retains some of its original charm, with crackle paint on the walls, which was preserved and sealed. The original wide plank wood floors were also kept; after pulling up the mats, they discovered children's handwriting of horse names, which they chose to refinish but leave visible, adding a unique personal touch. The overall aesthetic of the converted trailer, with its burnished wood and indirect lighting, is described as charming and elegant, reminiscent of a luxurious 'tiny house'. Construction of The Rolling Bar was completed in February 2020. Despite the initial launch plans being disrupted by the pandemic, the team adapted. They managed to rent the bar for two small weddings and it was utilized by the Barn Bowl and Bistro as an outdoor service station. These initial uses helped them to refine operations and address any logistical challenges, ensuring it was fully prepared for a relaunch in 2021. Grace remains optimistic about the venture, with bookings already scheduled for late summer and fall, including her own wedding. In addition to The Rolling Bar, Grace Guck also operates another entrepreneurial project called MV Ponies, where she and her pony, Popcorn (dressed as a unicorn), attend children's birthday parties with Grace dressed as a princess. This venture highlights her creative and versatile approach to event services. The Rolling Bar is available for rental, with renters responsible for supplying liquor and bartenders, though Grace offers guidance on local suppliers. The project stands as a testament to creative problem-solving and repurposing, transforming a functional but outdated item into a stylish and practical asset for the event industry. #MobileBar #HorseTrailerConversion #EventPlanning #Martha'sVineyard #SmallBusiness #WeddingServices #DIYProject #CreativeDesign #Entrepreneurship

This article explores ten distinct home bar designs, showcasing a range of styles from minimalist to opulent, suitable for various residential settings. The featured designs demonstrate how home bars can be integrated into diverse living spaces, serving as functional and aesthetic focal points for entertaining or personal enjoyment. Each example highlights unique design elements, material choices, and spatial considerations that contribute to the overall ambiance and utility of the home bar. The first design focuses on a Manhattan apartment, where the founder and principal designer of The Whistling Well, Milena Bica-Shibata, created a tranquil kitchen with a minimalist home bar. This design caters to a family's lifestyle centered around hosting and connecting over homemade meals, transforming an outdated apartment into a modern sanctuary. The bar seamlessly blends into the kitchen, emphasizing multifunctionality and a calm atmosphere. Another example from a two-story villa in Knokke, Belgium, owned by real-estate investor and art collector Hubert Bonnet, features a chic bar cart. The villa, restored by Fronton Architecture, incorporates Bauhaus-inspired rugs and classic furniture pieces, alongside minimalist and conceptual art. The mobile bar cart adds a touch of flair and flexibility, complementing the artful and sophisticated interior. In Mumbai, a 1,250-square-foot apartment designed by kaviar:collaborative for an extroverted family incorporates a magnificent home bar and lounge. Given creative freedom, designers Kasturi Wagh and Vineet Hingorani crafted a space that reflects the homeowners' outgoing personalities, making the bar a central element for entertaining. A large 12,000-square-foot house in La Quinta, California, underwent a remodel by Lucas, which included a striking home bar adorned with collectible art. This residence, ideal for hosting extended family and friends, demonstrates how a home bar can be a focal point for artistic expression within a spacious home. A London apartment belonging to a famous British singer features a built-in bar with fluted MDF doors, designed by Owl Design. The bar, which can be discreetly tucked away, contributes to the apartment's transformation into a vibrant party spot, while also accommodating the owner's passion for art, specifically a portrait of David Bowie. A historic Pelham, New York, house, renovated by Dufner Heighes, includes a custom bar in ribbed oak in the lower-level family room. This renovation modernized the 7,100-square-foot dwelling while preserving its historical essence, incorporating bold patterns and a sophisticated bar design for a growing family. An Aspen, Colorado, residence, designed by CCY Architects with interiors by David Kleinberg Design Associates, features a cozy rec room home bar. The design emphasizes a limited, neutral palette and natural materials, allowing art and nature to take center stage, with the bar complementing the serene and art-filled environment. In Bilbao, a blue-hued kitchen island doubles as a chic home bar in an apartment designed by Tenka Arkitektura. The design, inspired by nautical themes, uses sinuous walls and a continuous flow to create a compact yet multifunctional space, where the bar seamlessly integrates into the open-plan living area. A Miami condominium, home to Interior Design Hall of Fame member Lee F. Mindel, features an updated kitchen and home bar as part of a renovation by SheltonMindel. The design optimizes the ocean-view unit, creating a refined and functional space for the residents. Finally, a Dublin home designed by DesignLed features an expansive kitchen island that doubles as a home bar. The project, which involved tearing down a 1970s house to build a modern home with Georgian architectural influences, showcases how a central island can serve both culinary and social functions, becoming a showstopping element in the theatrical interiors. #HomeBarDesign #InteriorDesign #ResidentialSpaces #KitchenIslandBar #LuxuryHomes #ModernLiving #EntertainingSpaces #ArtfulInteriors #RenovationProjects

Fifth Group Restaurants, known for establishments like La Tavola and Ecco, is set to transform its Midtown seafood restaurant, Lure, into Lure Saltwater Kitchen and Bar. The original Lure will close on September 2nd, with the new concept opening just a week later. The renovation reflects changes in the dining scene and habits within Midtown, aiming to inject new excitement and energy into the space that has been operational for 13 years. Lure Saltwater Kitchen and Bar will maintain its focus on sustainable seafood, but with a revamped approach centered around small plates prepared on a newly installed wood-fire grill. The interior will undergo a refresh, and a new patio bar is being added to enhance the dining experience. The beverage program is also being updated to complement the new culinary direction. To lead this transformation, the team has brought in chef de cuisine Olivier Reedholm, formerly of The Grey in Savannah and the Michelin-starred Under in Norway. Reedholm will collaborate with Fifth Group's vice president of culinary, Mark Jeffers, and director of culinary, Brandon Chavannes, who was involved in the initial opening of Lure. This culinary trio is partnering with Farmers & Fisherman Purveyors to ensure that all seafood items adhere to the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch List, promoting sustainability. A key feature of the new menu will be the daily-to-weekly changing “Fleeting Moments” selection, offering fresh oysters, aguachile, crudo, ceviche, and tartare. This ensures a dynamic menu, encouraging repeat visits. A unique shared plate option, the “Tackle Box-Chef Assortment,” will present raw bar items in a vintage tackle box. The small plates section will feature imaginative dishes such as mussels in Thai coconut broth, blue crab tamale with pumpkin mole, and crispy shrimp with Chinese chili garlic crunch, peanuts, and seaweed. For diners preferring more traditional entrees, five options will be available, including pork shank, wood-grilled chicken, wagyu steak frites, and a filet of fish in brown butter sauce. These dishes aim to provide a classic yet approachable dining experience, distinct from a formal chop house. The wood-fire grill is expected to impart unique and dynamic flavors to these offerings. To cater to health-conscious guests, Lure Saltwater Kitchen will offer “Breadless Service” with house-made kimchi, pickles, and spicy condiments, alongside gluten-free anchovy garlic bread. Salads and vegetables will be available from the “From the Soil” section of the menu. A notable dessert item will be wood-fired, slow-roasted pineapple in rum caramel, served with house-made ice cream. The beverage program, curated by Fifth Group head of beverage innovation Ian Mendelsohn, will feature cocktails designed to complement the kitchen’s bright and exotic flavors. Options will include a frozen “creamsicle” cocktail and drinks incorporating shochu, yuzu, lemongrass, and chili. The wine list will expand to about 50 sustainable, biodynamic, or organic varieties, and eight beers will also be on offer. The aesthetic changes, guided by design team ai3 (who also designed the original Lure), will introduce new pops of color, including red and green, throughout both the indoor and outdoor spaces. New patio furniture and murals by a local artist will contribute to the refreshed ambiance. The new patio bar will host a happy hour from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily, featuring half-price oysters. Beyond culinary and design enhancements, Lure Saltwater Kitchen emphasizes environmental sustainability. The restaurant will collect rainwater for toilet flushing and plant watering. It has also partnered with Shell to Shore, a nonprofit organization that repurposes oyster shells to rebuild reefs, thus contributing to marine ecosystem restoration. The new Lure will soft-open on September 10th, with its official grand opening slated for September 16th. #FifthGroupRestaurants #LureSaltwaterKitchenAndBar #MidtownAtlanta #SustainableSeafood #RestaurantRedevelopment #WoodFireGrill #SmallPlates #EnvironmentalSustainability

The '90s aesthetic is experiencing a significant resurgence in interior design, with elements once considered outdated now making a comeback. This trend is particularly evident in the renewed popularity of French country style, a look exemplified by Goldie Hawn's dining nook from an archival image in 1992. The space showcases wooden furniture, a blue linen tablecloth, and white lace curtains, creating an atmosphere of ultimate coziness and lived-in luxury that feels surprisingly contemporary and aligns with popular styles predicted for 2025. This French country aesthetic, referred to as 'Châteaucore' by Dayna Isom Johnson, Trend Expert at Etsy, is identified as a major trend for summer 2025. Johnson notes a substantial increase in searches for 'France cottage decor' on Etsy, indicating a strong consumer interest in this old-world aesthetic. Châteaucore is characterized by a romantic and storied ambiance, moving away from previous trends like the 'Tomato Girl vibe' towards a more countryside-inspired charm. It encompasses elements such as airy cotton dresses, embroidered textiles, and vintage glassware, creating a setting reminiscent of a French novel. To achieve this look, individuals are encouraged to incorporate eclectic, antique, and storied pieces with a variety of textures. Specific recommendations include embroidered linens, vintage floral ceramics, and touches of gold, alongside a fresh baguette in a chic bread bag to fully capture the French countryside charm. The article highlights that the cyclical nature of trends means the return of '90s styles points to a broader shift towards more characterful and comfortable interiors. The enduring appeal of Goldie Hawn's dining nook serves as a prime example of how these elements can be combined to create a space that is both inviting and stylish, suggesting that this cozy, lived-in aesthetic will continue to gain traction in upcoming design trends. #GoldieHawn #FrenchCountryStyle #90sInteriorTrends #Châteaucore #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #VintageStyle #CelebrityHomes #DiningNook

Setting up a home bar can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor, influencing the atmosphere of a home, whether it's for quiet evenings or lively gatherings. This article showcases eight distinct home bar ideas designed to inspire impressive and playful spaces, ranging from vibrant color schemes to unique material choices and thematic designs. One concept features a home in Hyderabad that masterfully uses an all-grey aesthetic as a backdrop for vibrant art. The bar area, however, breaks from this muted palette with a bright orange PU-finished bar and electric blue bar stools, complemented by a monochromatic floral monkey wallpaper and a yellow Smeg refrigerator, adding a lively burst of color. Another design highlights an outdoor monolithic bar in Chennai, where a private terrace is transformed. Unique slabs of royal Balkan marble with sinuous grains form a freestanding curved partition, enclosing a monolithic bar. This 7,000-square-foot home embodies a mid-century revival aesthetic, blending traditional and modern elements with pops of color, all while catering to family life. An ode to its hometown is seen in a Jaipur home, where every corner, including the bar, pays tribute to the city's blush tones. The bar is subtly placed in an elevated corner, benefiting from a skylight. Custom-made bar stools adorned with clown faces add a personal touch, alongside a blush pink carpet that reinforces the home's main theme. A three-bedroom villa in Bengaluru presents a tropical bar adjoining a terrace. The bar's walls are covered in black tropical-themed wallpaper, with the bar and terrace door made of teakwood. A countertop of black Saint-Laurent marble with gold accents floats, supported by brass rods. For those seeking a blend of old and new, a Noida penthouse features a fluted home bar with a rustic charm. Its warm colors and vintage elements create a cozy corner suitable for hosting parties, reflecting the fashion designers' journey and their resort wear label's qualities through nostalgic and modern integration. A basket-like lamp above the bar enhances its character. A private terrace in Hyderabad's Banjara Hills is transformed into a sundowner-ready rooftop bar. The bar counter is an interplay of limestone, copper, brass, and mild steel, set against a Corian marble kitchenette. Solid walls and breezeblocks ensure privacy and create dynamic light and shadow effects, with the bar positioned to offer views of the sunset. Oolitic limestone on circular brass legs, a sand-textured limestone counter with copper stits, and a fluted mild steel storage unit contribute to its unique appeal. Finally, a Mumbai home belonging to a TV actor offers a whimsical take on Parisian design with a bar cabinet adorned with Channapatna figures. These lacquered wooden dolls serve as both decorative elements and cabinet handles. The soft peach ceiling and cabinet interiors contrast with white walls, creating an inviting, brightly colored bar area. Another Mumbai home showcases an emerald-toned bar with an angular backdrop and a rich emerald-colored pillar. It features a terrazzo countertop with fluted legs, a brass artifact, and exposed light bulbs, creating a luxurious and inviting space perfect for entertaining guests. #HomeBarIdeas #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #PartyReadyHomes #LuxuryBars #OutdoorBars #ModernRustic #ThemedDecor #ResidentialDesign

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered daily life, leading many individuals to spend more time at home. This shift prompted a renewed focus on enhancing home environments, particularly by integrating home bars as a dedicated space for entertainment and relaxation. Designers such as Jean Liu noted an increased demand from clients to incorporate home bars, often transforming existing spaces like coat closets or overlooked areas of the house into vibrant social hubs. The trend was driven by a desire to recreate the ambiance of public establishments, like New York City's Bemelmans bar, within the safety and comfort of one's own residence. This allowed for bold design choices, with clients opting for bright, dark, or moody paint colors and unique materials like cast-pewter bar tops, which they might not have considered for other parts of their homes. Beth Diana Smith emphasized the importance of creating a feeling of being 'not at home' when entertaining, even within one's own house. J. Randall Powers observed that clients, who previously maintained active social lives outside the home, began to direct their attention to underutilized parts of their houses. Bars, once an overlooked feature, gained prominence as people sought new ways to engage with their living spaces and entertain guests. Powers cited an example of creating a bar for a bourbon enthusiast on a 19th-century Portuguese table, showcasing bottles on a shagreen tray, highlighting a shift from displaying antique book collections to curated liquor selections. Michelle Nussbaumer further demonstrated the versatility of home bar placement, integrating them into unexpected areas like home spas and dressing rooms, creating intimate 'vacation-like' settings behind Moorish arches, and adorning them with eclectic collections of vintage glasses and swizzle sticks. This approach underlined a preference for smaller, more personal gathering spots. For those with limited space, a classic bar cart became a popular solution during the pandemic. Beth Diana Smith noted her own adoption of a bar cart, emphasizing that liquor stores being deemed essential businesses underscored the growing importance of at-home drinking. She suggested styling bar carts with textured pieces, like ovoid baskets for bottles, and encouraging splurging on elegant accessories to elevate the experience. Powers also observed a return to the British tradition of dry bars, which are bars without plumbing, suggesting a renewed interest in the art of cocktail making itself, rather than just the act of consuming drinks. Modern home bars incorporated various high-tech amenities and design elements. Nussbaumer integrated specialized dishwashers for crystal barware, abundant refrigerator drawers, and even smoke machines for drinks. Liu designed a hidden bar behind jib doors in a family room, featuring shamrock-green floating shelves against an antiqued-mirror backsplash, creating a visually expansive display for crystal. However, Powers expressed a more practical view on displaying glassware, preferring everyday glasses over delicate crystal to avoid anxiety over breakages and dust accumulation. He argued that if crystal is to be displayed, it should be behind glass doors. Liu countered this by humorously pointing out that in 2020, people were unlikely to let dust accumulate on their frequently used glasses, reflecting the increased use of home bars during that period. The article, produced by Laurel J. Benedum, originally appeared in the December 2020 issue of ELLE Decor, highlighting the contemporary relevance of home bar design during a time of significant social change. #HomeBarDesign #InteriorDesignTrends #CocktailHourAtHome #PandemicImpactOnDesign #LuxuryHomeFeatures #EntertainingAtHome #CreativeSpaces #HomeEntertainment

The article showcases a six-bedroom family home on Long Island designed by Emily Del Bello, which demonstrates how open-concept floor plans can be both practical and comfortable. The homeowners, having moved from New York City, sought a transitional and modern home with elegant spaces for entertaining and kid-friendly zones for their children. Key requirements included an inviting bar area, as the couple collects wine and frequently hosts guests, and dedicated home offices for both spouses, emphasizing the need for private spaces tailored to each family member's style and needs. Del Bello's design aimed to create a livable yet sophisticated environment. The resulting layout features a wide-open floor plan integrated with unexpected, tucked-away areas. The kitchen, clad in Arabescato Corchia marble and custom white oak cabinetry by Marc Piacenti of Highland Organization Corp., is centered around an oversized island with dining stools and sculptural pendants. This space seamlessly transitions into a breakfast area with a large window and then into a family room, which includes a comfortable sectional and a television. A notable feature is the speakeasy-like bar, accessible from the double-height entryway, which boasts a hidden U-shaped banquette and a secret passage leading to the husband's home office. This design approach creates distinct zones within the open space. Other private areas in the home are characterized by minimal color palettes but rich textures. The primary bedroom, for example, is described as a "zen den" due to its luxurious fabrics, including an affordable chambray coverlet from Target. The absence of a formal living room is compensated by the bar and family room, which offer playful and comfortable settings. Del Bello emphasizes that despite its open nature, the home maintains a warm family atmosphere and prioritizes comfort. Details about specific rooms highlight the design choices. The 22-foot high ceilings in the entryway create a grand, fresh, and open first impression, with walls covered in wide shiplap painted in Benjamin Moore's Super White. Furnishings in this area include armchairs by Sean Woolsey, a side table by Cassina, and art by Alina B. The family room, designed for lounging, features a custom coffee table, a sofa from Homenature, a Patterson Flynn carpet, and art by Christopher Yockey, with limewash walls by Heather Jozak Studios and a white oak ceiling. The conversation alcove in the bar room includes a banquette, a cocktail table from Matter, fabric by Pollack, a light fixture from Allied Maker, and wallcovering by Phillip Jeffries. The kitchen's marble, custom cabinetry, Emtek hardware, A-N-D pendants, and Thomas Hayes barstools further emphasize the blend of luxury and functionality. The breakfast area features a dramatic Anony light fixture and Wentz Tela chairs from Matter. The bar room is equipped with an XO ice maker and refrigerator drawers, with Phillip Jeffries wallpaper and Calacatta Vagli marble from BAS Stone. The primary bedroom showcases custom bedding with Holly Hunt fabric, a Studio Van Den Akker pendant, and Phillip Jeffries wallpaper. The primary bathroom uses Studium NYC tiles, custom cabinetry, a Victoria + Albert bathtub, Kallista fixtures, and Kravet fabric drapery, designed for a timeless, bright, and fresh aesthetic. The Q&A section with Emily Del Bello reveals that the project was a new build initiated post-COVID, allowing her to be involved from the architectural planning stages to selecting interior details to meet the family's needs, overcoming challenges such as material delays. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #OpenConcept #LuxuryLiving #CustomHome #LongIsland #EmilyDelBello #TransitionalDesign

Integrating a bar into a home introduces a sophisticated element, serving as a focal point for entertainment and aesthetic enhancement. The creation of a home bar, whether a full wet bar or a more modest standalone setup, involves careful consideration of both functionality and style. These spaces, much like miniature kitchens, require durable and attractive materials, such as glass cabinetry for showcasing elegant glassware. While wet bars can increase a home's value, they represent a significant undertaking. Alternatively, standalone bars or even bar carts offer versatile and attractive solutions for those seeking a less intensive project. Designing a home bar presents an opportunity for making a distinct design statement. The choice between dark and light color palettes can significantly influence the ambiance, with sleek black paint lending a high-end feel. Incorporating reflective surfaces like mirrors or mirrored backsplashes can further elevate the sophistication of the space. The strategic placement of the bar is crucial; it should be situated in an area where guests commonly gather, ensuring accessibility and encouraging social interaction. Efficient use of space is also paramount, necessitating design choices that maximize both horizontal and vertical areas, such as the inclusion of wall shelves for additional storage. Beyond practical considerations, the aesthetic details are key to making a home bar stand out. This can involve unexpected accent colors, metallic finishes, or unique decor elements that inject vibrancy and personality. The article highlights several examples of home bar designs, showcasing a range of styles and configurations. One example features a custom kegerator within a basement bar, complemented by decor from Target and fixtures from Sinkology and Pfister, illustrating how personalized touches can create a distinct space. Another instance describes a basement bar from Classic Bars, designed with a sleek aesthetic and integrated appliances like a fridge, dishwasher, and microwave, emphasizing seamless functionality within a stylish environment. Further examples include a wet bar ingeniously placed under a staircase, demonstrating creative use of often-overlooked spaces. A “lady’s cave” with a full bar, complete with Z Gallerie stools and sports-themed decor, exemplifies how a home bar can reflect personal interests and create a dedicated recreational zone. Other illustrations feature a built-in china cabinet doubling as a coffee bar with leathered granite countertops, and a bar integrated into a dining room with Amazon stools and steampunk-inspired wall gears. The article also presents examples of renovated spaces, such as a basement transformed from a mother-in-law suite into an entertainment room with new cabinets and granite countertops. A 19th-century ice chest repurposed as a bar in a bungalow, along with a collection of pewter in a bar niche, highlight the integration of vintage and decorative elements. Practical designs like a breakfast nook serving as a coffee and wine bar, equipped with dual wine storage and a Miele coffee system, demonstrate multifunctional approaches. A rolling bar cart displaying crystal decanters and a repurposed carved armoire functioning as a wine and coffee bar in a master bedroom underscore the versatility of portable and adaptable bar solutions. Lastly, an indoor pool and spa area featuring a custom bar, a small home bar with simple cocktail ingredients for guests, and a dry bar with arabesque tile extending storage in a townhome illustrate diverse settings and scales for home bar integration. Each example reinforces the idea that a home bar, regardless of its size or complexity, can significantly enhance a home's appeal and provide a unique space for enjoyment and entertaining. #HomeBars #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #EntertainmentSpaces #RenovationIdeas #CustomBars #WetBars #BarCarts #DesignInspiration

Acquiring a bar cart signifies a notable step into adult entertaining, moving beyond informal spirit storage to a more refined presentation of beverages. It represents a mature appreciation for both spirits and home decor, with an emphasis on creating an inviting display rather than a hidden liquor cabinet. Bar carts offer a versatile solution for serving drinks, allowing hosts to engage with guests without retreating to the kitchen. While traditional bar carts were designed for mobility, modern interpretations often function as stationary furniture pieces, enhancing living spaces with an aesthetic touch. Historically, bar carts gained popularity in the 1950s in the United States, evolving from the earlier tea cart. This era saw a peak in their use, leading to a vibrant market for vintage mid-century designs that collectors still seek today. For those preferring new additions, a diverse range of contemporary bar carts is available, catering to various styles and functional needs. Among the featured selections is the Urban Outfitters Esther Bar Cart, priced at $169. It features black, rough-hewn wood and an A-frame shape, designed to add personality without overpowering a room's existing decor. Another option is the Serena & Lily Parisian Bar Cart, costing $1,298, which is distinguished by its antiqued brass, ebony frame, and silver-leaf backed glass shelves, aiming to evoke a Parisian bistro ambiance. Its top shelf is also removable for use as a serving tray. The Blu Dot Longday Bar Cart, at $599, highlights its bold wheel design as a key aesthetic and functional element. For outdoor entertaining or space-saving solutions, the Cosco Indoor/Outdoor Folding Serving Cart is available, with prices starting from around $75. It comes in various colors and can be folded for compact storage. The AllModern Edinburgh Bar Cart, currently 47% off at $277, is suitable for those who value mobility, featuring high, raised edges and industrial pipes for hanging towels, suggesting a fully functional bar setup. The Nathan James Carter Rolling Bar Cart offers an alternative for those seeking a rollable cart without the industrial aesthetic, providing high rails on its top shelf for secure bottle transport. The Serena & Lily Monaco Bar Cart, priced at $548, is designed to evoke a warm, tropical atmosphere, ideal for rums, tequilas, and mezcals. A more budget-friendly option, the Novogratz Helix Utility Cart, offers a touch of gold for under $50, suitable for a striking yet affordable addition to any home. IKEA's RÅSKOG Utility Cart, at $40, is presented as a highly versatile and affordable solution, capable of being used in multiples for larger gatherings. For a more durable and long-lasting investment, the USM Haller Bar Cart, made of chromed steel by a Swiss modular furniture company, is available for $1,075. The Urban Outfitters Selene Bar Cart, at $199, combines thin lines with a bold shape for an elegant and timeless design. The Serena & Lily Larkin Bar Cart, priced at $1,498, offers a compact solution with brass, glass, and wood elements, fitting well into smaller, chic spaces. Lastly, the Crate and Barrel Noir Round Bar Cart, at $599, is suggested as an elegant accent for small nooks or room corners. #BarCarts #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #Furniture #Entertaining #Lifestyle #HomeAccessories #ModernDesign #VintageStyle

This article explores a diverse collection of luxurious home bar designs, highlighting how these often small spaces can be transformed into significant design statements. It emphasizes that home bars, whether a sophisticated bar cart or a custom-built installation, offer an opportunity for bold aesthetic choices. The article presents various examples from top designers, showcasing how different materials, colors, and patterns can create distinct moods and functionalities. Several design concepts are detailed, illustrating how to infuse personality and elegance into home bar areas. The "Rattan Bar" in a Charleston Georgian home features a 1930s English rattan bar, printed linen wallpaper, and leafy mirrors, creating an informal yet chic tavern atmosphere. The "Tucked-Away Bar" cleverly integrates a bar into a living room closet in a Katie Ridder-designed Birmingham home, utilizing a 1940s photogram-inspired wallpaper and folding doors for concealment. The "Farm Bar" at Blackberry Farm exemplifies rustic luxury with a simple bar table adorned with a La DoubleJ tablecloth and wildflowers, set against the backdrop of Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains. The "Contemporary-Meets-Classic Bar" from the Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Palm Beach combines architectural moldings, Silestone Le Chic stone, and sleek Kohler fixtures, complemented by earthy-colored art. The "Brushed Brass Bar" in a New York City townhouse uses brushed brass cabinetry and marble to create a warm, ember-like glow. The playful "Monkey Bar," inspired by a New York City landmark, features de Gournay wallpaper with dapper monkeys, poppy orange silk taffeta drapery, and a glowing quartz bar, offering a glamorous yet whimsical vibe. A "Marble Bar" in a Mexico City condo showcases treasured glassware and Eramosa vein-cut marble for a glowing effect. The "Coastal Bar" in another Kips Bay show house blends opulence with contemporary Parisian maximalism and seaside flair, using sandy-toned fabrics and sheer draperies. The "Tabletop Bar" in Lauren Santo Domingo's Hamptons home utilizes a Soane Britain table as a bar, with abstract glassware echoing the home's art. The "Pavilion Bar" at the Palm Beach Kips Bay Show House offers an elegant poolside setup with a games table and a well-stocked bar, perfect for outdoor entertaining. The "Front Porch Bar" at Jan Showers's Colonial-style home features a 1940s garden table for serving drinks, emphasizing hospitality. The "Moody Bar" in the Dallas Kips Bay Show House connects seamlessly with a family room, designed for sophisticated entertaining with cohesive styling. Further examples include the "Groovy Orange Bar" in a New York City townhouse, featuring a vibrant wet bar and spherical ottoman, making the pool lounge a social hub. The "Velvet Bar" from the Dallas Kips Bay Show House transforms a hallway into an inviting space with a green velvet banquette, playful artwork, and a unique light fixture. The "Jewel Box Bar," also from the Dallas Kips Bay Show House, is a compact yet luxurious space with custom wallcovering, mirrored draperies, wood grain cabinetry, and a boldly veined marble countertop. The "Wicker Tray Bar" in Melissa Rufty's Charleston pied-à-terre uses an 18th-century portrait and an early 19th-century console table to create a makeshift, artfully arranged bar. The "Screened Porch Bar" in a Martha's Vineyard home offers a bar cart for easy outdoor entertaining, inviting guests to linger with ocean views. The "Weekend Bar" in Katie Leede's former New York loft highlights an island that functions as a dining area, workspace, or bar. Finally, the "Jazz Era Bar" in a 1920s New Jersey estate animates its details with a neon sign and deep teal shades, connecting it to the neighboring library, while the "Apartment Bar" in Garrow Kedigian's Manhattan apartment features a sleek, curvilinear design with leather stools and stylish wallpaper, perfect for sophisticated gatherings. These examples collectively demonstrate the versatility and creative potential of designing a home bar. #HomeBarIdeas #LuxuryDesign #InteriorDecorating #EntertainingAtHome #BarDesign #CustomBars #DesignInspiration #SmallSpaceDesign #ResidentialDesign

The Sonoma-based interior design firm Hommeboys, led by Alex Mutter-Rottmayer and Austin Carrier, has opened a new studio and launched three new capsule collections for their furniture line, Haus of Hommeboys. The firm is known for its thoughtful design approach and hands-on craftsmanship, blending classic Wine Country aesthetics with a modern, refreshing twist. Mutter-Rottmayer and Carrier, who have been married since 2019, have previously garnered acclaim for their designs in projects such as Healdsburg’s Marine Layer tasting room and Sonoma’s Valley Bar + Bottle restaurant. The new studio, which also houses a woodshop and cabinetry studio, is situated just off the plaza in downtown Sonoma. This expansion represents a significant step for the Hommeboys, fulfilling a long-held ambition to establish their own showroom. Mutter-Rottmayer expressed a mix of excitement and apprehension about the venture, acknowledging the risk involved in showcasing their unique design vision to a wider audience, but emphasizing their consistent desire for a dedicated space. The Hommeboys’ design philosophy is characterized by an emphasis on mixing materials and incorporating organic and natural elements. They experiment with various shapes in plaster, stone, and wood, aiming for a look that is both earthy and deeply connected to the Californian landscape. This approach is reflected in their furniture line, which features organic and natural materials. One of their new capsule collections for Haus of Hommeboys draws inspiration from rustic themes. This collection includes dark, ebony-stained, hand-notched cedar furniture, designed to evoke a raw, rustic, and edgy feel. The shapes within this collection are described as anthropomorphized, influenced by the golden hills of California. The design process at Hommeboys is driven by creativity and a desire to have fun. Alex Mutter-Rottmayer highlighted an instance where green velvet from a photo shoot was spontaneously used to cover a bedroom’s walls, illustrating their adaptive and playful approach to design. This method emphasizes utilizing available resources and embracing unexpected inspirations to shape their distinctive interiors. #InteriorDesign #Sonoma #DesignStudio #FurnitureDesign #HausOfHommeboys #WineCountryDesign #OrganicDesign #Craftsmanship

This article highlights six distinctive home bar designs created by local designers in New England, showcasing innovative solutions for incorporating stylish and functional bar areas into various home settings. Each design emphasizes both aesthetics and practicality, ranging from concealed units to open, statement-making installations. The first example, a Seaport penthouse by Planeta Design Group, features a bar area that is ingeniously hidden behind wall panels. These panels lift to reveal a bar equipped with an illuminated onyx slab and mirror-polished stainless steel, suitable for both cocktail and tea service. The space, which can be privatized by Shoji-inspired sliding doors, includes heated limestone floors, cove lights, and a cast-glass table, offering a warm and intimate contrast to the apartment's more open areas. Kelly McGuill Home transformed an unused storage space under the stairs of a 19th-century Portsmouth home into a modern bar. This renovation utilized low-maintenance quartz countertops designed to mimic Carrara marble and a white subway-tile backsplash with gray grout, complementing the home's bright interior and the countertop's veining. Koo de Kir Architectural Interiors designed a wet bar for a South End townhouse as part of a gut renovation. The key feature of this bar is its ability to be concealed when not in use, achieved through pocket doors. The design incorporates white-oak cabinetry for glassware storage and below-counter units for a refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, and additional storage. Nina Farmer Interiors introduced a wet bar into a renovated Colonial in Brookline, positioned off the dining room. The design team selected mocha-hued cabinets to harmonize with the striking Cipollino Fantastico marble countertop sourced from Cumar, creating a sophisticated and cohesive look. Andra Birkerts Design created a dazzling bar area off the living room in a Chestnut Hill home. To make the space a focal point and attract guests, the design incorporated gleaming, mirrored mosaic tiling and a collection of decorative Tom Dixon pendant lights, emphasizing a sense of specialness and allure. Lastly, Justine Sterling designed a compact bar within a deeply recessed niche in the dining room of a Queen Anne Victorian. This solution maximizes an otherwise unused space, featuring mounted cabinets with glass doors for barware, which also allows a glimpse of the Farrow & Ball wallcovering, adding depth. White cabinets beneath the counter offer additional storage and house a small refrigerator. Each project demonstrates a thoughtful approach to integrating home bar areas that cater to diverse aesthetic preferences and functional requirements, from concealed, intimate spaces to openly luxurious and inviting setups, enhancing the entertaining capabilities and overall design of the residences. #HomeBarDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryLiving #SpaceUtilization #ModernRenovation #HiddenBar #EntertainingSpaces #DesignInspiration

The home bar, once a symbol of 1950s and 60s suburban American and British glamour, is experiencing a significant resurgence, evolving from its kitschy 1970s decline and 1980s trolley-only existence into a sophisticated and essential element of contemporary home design. This renewed interest is largely attributed to shifts in domestic habits, particularly the increased time spent at home since the pandemic, leading to a desire for intentional, home-based living and elevated 'home experiences.' The trend is also fueled by a strong sense of nostalgia for mid-century design and retro entertaining styles, which are currently back in vogue. Social media platforms, showcasing beautifully styled bar carts and integrated bar setups, have played a crucial role in popularizing this comeback. Historically, the home bar emerged in the US post-World War II as people spent more time indoors, symbolizing the suburban American dream of a well-appointed home. In the UK, its popularity grew during the 1950s and 60s as families moved to suburban homes and hosting became a prevalent pastime. These early home bars often incorporated wood paneling, mirrored backs, and cocktail glassware, blending British pub culture with American cocktail lounge aesthetics. However, the trend waned in the late 1970s and 80s, with home bars being relegated to less prominent spaces or reduced to simple drinks trolleys. Today's home bar is about more than just a place to store drinks; it's a statement of personal taste and a functional space for entertaining and relaxation. Interior designer Claire Garner emphasizes the importance of practicality in modern home bar design, suggesting features like good lighting, accessible storage for bottles and glassware, and a dedicated surface for mixing and serving. Integrated shelving, drawers, or trays are also highly desirable. From an aesthetic perspective, creating an atmosphere is key, involving the addition of texture, color, and thoughtful details such as statement mirrors, elegant barware, or artwork to personalize the space and make it inviting. For those looking to integrate a home bar without a large initial investment, Claire recommends starting small with a simple drinks tray or bar cart styled on a console table, sideboard, or even a windowsill. This initial setup can include essential spirits, stylish glasses, a cocktail shaker, and decorative elements like a small vase of flowers or a scented candle. This approach allows homeowners to gauge their usage and preferences before committing to a larger setup. As needs and styles evolve, the bar can be expanded with additional shelving, freestanding cabinets, or built-in lighting, offering complete flexibility to grow with the space and personal habits. The modern home bar, therefore, caters to a variety of occasions, from elaborate cocktail parties to quiet evenings with a glass of wine, embodying a blend of luxury, functionality, and personal expression. #HomeBars #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #Entertaining #DesignTrends #MidCenturyModern #HomeRenovation #Lifestyle

The Edinburgh gallery Bard presents a new exhibition titled 'Bardware,' which aims to reframe the perception of craft from an exclusive, high-art domain to an accessible, everyday practice. Founded by Hugo Macdonald and James Stevens, Bard seeks to bridge the gap between craft as a specialized hobby and as luxury objects, instead focusing on items designed for daily use and sensory engagement within the home. The inspiration for 'Bardware' stems from the founders' appreciation for traditional hardware stores, which they view as symbols of optimism and the human capacity to make, fix, build, and repair. The exhibition features works from 20 Scottish craftspeople, designers, and artists, all commissioned to create objects that enhance daily domestic life. The brief encouraged the artists to produce items that could be touched and used regularly, challenging the conventional hands-off approach often associated with gallery exhibits. The display includes a diverse range of functional and decorative items, such as Primitive Arrangement vases by Nick Ross, two-armed candelabras by David Taylor, and architectural toilet-roll holders crafted by Juli Bolaños-Durman from salvaged materials. Other notable pieces include James Rigler’s bronze-glazed ceramic 'Greek Knobs,' Oliver Spendley’s bowls made from polished mountain rock shards, and All About Willow’s hand-turned cherry porridge spurtles. The collection also showcases Clement Knives’ pocket knives made from whisky-barrel hoops, Eve Eunson’s baskets woven from sea plastic collected from Shetland’s beaches, and Studio Viv Lee’s devotional ceramic characters. Additionally, Jess White contributes leather-wrapped boulder doorstops, while Araminta Campbell offers cozy alpaca hot-water bottle covers. Each piece is presented to encourage interaction, emphasizing the tactile and experiential qualities of craft. This exhibition marks three years since Bard opened its doors in Leith, establishing a unique approach to presenting and selling craft. Macdonald highlights the importance of humor and mild irreverence in making craft more approachable and moving it beyond the confines of a museum setting into everyday life. He acknowledges the cost associated with handcrafted items but underscores their inherent value, contrasting this with the societal issue of cheap, mass-produced goods. Since its inception, Bard has observed a significant increase in public engagement with craft, marked by a greater willingness to purchase, utilize, and inquire about the practitioners, materials, and skills involved. Macdonald believes that craft is a fundamental 'life force' that enriches human experience and fosters connections across cultures and time. He posits that craft is not a regressive or counterbalancing force to design and technology but rather a parallel and powerful element that becomes even more impactful when integrated into modern life, indicating a collective awakening to its enduring relevance and value. #CraftExhibition #ScottishArt #HomeDecor #DesignInteriors #FunctionalArt #BardGallery #EverydayObjects #HardwareShopInspiration #ContemporaryCraft

Nidhi Kapur, the founder of Maiden Home, established the brand in 2017 to address a perceived gap in the modern home decor market. Her experience furnishing her first home revealed a prevalence of generic designs and subpar craftsmanship among large retailers. Leveraging her technology background, Kapur aimed to offer sophisticated yet affordably priced furnishings directly to consumers. Maiden Home sources its products from artisans in North Carolina, focusing on quality and distinctive design. The direct-to-consumer (DTC) model enables the brand to maintain competitive pricing while delivering high-end aesthetics. In the summer of 2022, Maiden Home launched Tribeca House, a temporary pop-up experience in New York. This initiative aimed to provide clients with a tangible interaction with the brand's aesthetic and demonstrate how Maiden Home's curated approach could be integrated into their personal living spaces. The pop-up was situated in a two-story, 2,500-square-foot loft, offering ample space to showcase a selection of items from the brand's summer 2022 collection. The layout and presentation at Tribeca House were designed to inspire visitors and offer fresh perspectives on contemporary home styling. The featured pieces at Tribeca House included several key designs from the summer 2022 collection. Among these was the minimalist Mulberry ottoman, characterized by its clean lines and functional design, reflecting a blend of modern simplicity and practicality. Another highlight was the Kenmare chair, crafted from ash wood and upholstered in a white tweed fabric, emphasizing texture and natural materials. The Vestry nesting tables also garnered attention; this pair of tables featured asymmetrical forms and were constructed from domestically sourced red oak, showcasing the brand's commitment to quality materials and unique design elements. The pop-up aimed to illustrate the brand's 'collected home mindset,' encouraging customers to view furnishings as cohesive elements that contribute to a unified and sophisticated living environment. By presenting these items in a curated physical space, Maiden Home sought to bridge the gap between online browsing and the tactile experience of selecting home decor. The initiative reinforced the brand's dedication to providing accessible, high-quality modern furnishings that prioritize both design and craftsmanship. While Tribeca House was a temporary installation designed to engage customers and introduce new collections, Maiden Home's core philosophy emphasizes the enduring nature of its products. The brand's focus on timeless design, durable materials, and expert craftsmanship ensures that its furniture is intended for long-term use, contrasting with the fleeting trends often associated with mass-produced items. This commitment to longevity is a central tenet of Maiden Home's identity, promising pieces that will remain relevant and cherished in customers' homes for years to come. #MaidenHome #HomeDecor #NewYorkPopUp #ModernFurnishings #DirectToConsumer #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #ArtisanCraftsmanship

The article explores the growing trend of home bars as an essential feature for entertaining and enhancing home aesthetics, reflecting a shift in social preferences towards intimate apartment gatherings over traditional nightlife. Designers highlight the practicality and visual impact of home bars, noting their ability to consolidate spirits, glassware, and cocktail tools while adding sophistication to any space. The concept of a home bar can range from a simple, well-stocked bar cart to an elaborate wet bar room, complete with counters, stools, sinks, dishwashers, and dedicated beverage storage. The integration of a home bar with other living areas, such as the kitchen, is also discussed as a way to streamline functionality and improve visual appeal, with specific design elements like integrated Champagne buckets and specialized sinks for wine glasses enhancing adaptability and accessibility. The article showcases diverse home bar designs through examples provided by various interior designers. These examples illustrate how home bars can be tailored to different styles and spaces. One design features a low-light bar in a country lodge's game room, incorporating vintage elements and a fully stocked cocktail station for entertainment. Another offers a chic, dark, and moody bar near a kitchen, emphasizing the use of high-quality materials like wood, marble, or granite for countertops and shelving to achieve a luxurious and durable finish. A bright and glamorous bar utilizes bold materials such as marble and brass, complemented by antique mirrors to create a 'jewel box' effect within the home. Tiled home bars are presented as a way to add visual interest and practical benefits through durable and easy-to-maintain surfaces. Creative and space-saving solutions for home bars are also highlighted. For smaller living spaces, a closet can be repurposed into a functional bar, complete with essential barware and decorative elements. Modern home bars are shown to extend beyond traditional kitchen settings, with examples found in dressing rooms, living rooms, and ancillary areas, often featuring high-contrast black and white motifs for a dapper look. Unused nooks, such as under-stair spaces, are transformed into vibrant bars with bold colors, exciting hardware, and detailed millwork. Colorful designs, like a pink bar complementing a living room's midcentury elements, demonstrate how home bars can infuse energy and a sense of luxurious leisure. Art Deco-inspired bars, incorporating mixed metals and unique stone waterfall islands, cater to hosts who frequently entertain. Beach-themed bars, clad in sea-blue finishes and vibrant lava tiles, are designed to evoke a fun, escape-like atmosphere. Warm wood bars that double as bookshelves offer both storage and aesthetic appeal, while outdoor bar carts provide a festive and functional addition to backyard gatherings. Commercial bar designs, like those found in restaurants, serve as inspiration for creating homey, lived-in spaces with layered art and nautical memorabilia. Hidden bars, crafted within multipurpose walls using inset niche shelving and distinctive wallpapers, offer discreet yet stylish options. Finally, examples featuring color splashes, warm welcomes with handmade tiles and raffia paneling, mixology zones with joyful patterns and saturated colors, and bars with hints of blue using repurposed materials, all illustrate the endless possibilities for creating a personalized and sophisticated home bar experience. #HomeBar #InteriorDesign #RoomIdeas #EntertainingAtHome #LuxuryLiving #HomeDecor #DesignTrends