Wet Bar vs. Dry Bar: Choosing Your Home Bar

Thinking about adding a home bar to your living space? If you’re looking for a relaxing social space for your friends or a hopping hub for parties, you’ve come to the right place. 

In this article, we will discuss two popular types of at-home bars: wet bars and dry bars. Keep reading to determine which option is best for your kitchen, basement, game room, man cave, or lady lair.

What is a Wet Bar?

A wet bar is an in-home bar traditionally used for mixing and serving alcoholic beverages. But a wet bar can be used for more than just booze, like coffee and cocoa or mocktails and hors d’oeuvres. It’s different from other types of home bars because of its access to plumbing and running water. Wet bars always include a sink and sometimes a dishwasher, dishwasher drawer, or a mini-fridge.

Wet bars are usually located in or near the kitchen so that plumbing can be easily accessed. It’s common to find a wet bar in a finished basement, where there may already be a half bathroom. 

A main advantage of wet bars is the ability to clean up during and after your event. With a sink, glasses and drinkware can be washed quickly, spills can be wiped up, and post-event cleanup is effortless. It takes even less time to tidy up if a dishwasher is installed.

What is a Dry Bar?

A dry bar, on the other hand, is like a wet bar but does not have access to running water and, therefore, no sink. Since a dry bar is not limited by plumbing, it has more flexibility regarding installation location. It can be installed essentially anywhere in your home, like the attic game room or the man cave in the spare bedroom. Even smaller spaces like corners or nooks can house a dry bar since there is no sink or dishwasher taking up extra space.

Dry bars are relatively cost-effective because they eliminate plumbing work, a sink, and a dishwasher. Since they are generally more affordable to install than wet bars, dry bars can be especially appealing to homeowners on a tighter budget.

Must-Haves for Any Home Bar

All home bars have essential features to make your wet or dry bar functional and stylish. Be sure to include the components below in your design.

Refrigeration: Whether you choose a full-size fridge, mini fridge, or beer or wine cooler, you need to have something to keep your drinks cold and your guests happy.

Cabinets: Wet and dry bars alike should have updated cabinets. Whether you go classic or chic, choose modern cabinetry to avoid an out-of-style, wood-paneled basement look.

Countertops: Enough counter space with durable countertops is a necessity. You’ll need room for glassware, bottles, and other ingredients as you prepare cocktails and entertain guests.

Flooring: The right flooring can go a long way. Vinyl tiles are a great option as they are scratch-resistant and waterproof. Avoid carpet, which is hard to clean spills and stains out of.

Home Bar Ideas

Now that you have the critical components handled, here are a few more tips to consider before installing your home bar.

Shelves or Glass Cabinets: Include enough shelving or glass cabinets to highlight your classy glassware, an array of liquor bottles, or a selection of fine wine.

Lighting: Soft, warm lighting creates an inviting ambiance, while sleek pendants or chandeliers bring out elegance. Consider smart lighting control systems to adjust the brightness of your lighting during your event.

Backsplash: Tile or stone backsplashes are popular additions. Tile backsplashes can add a pop of color, while a stone slab backsplash can provide a luxurious tone to your home bar.

Storage: No matter what, your wet or dry bar will require storage. Should you choose not to display your glassware and bottles, you will definitely need an area to store them. Plus, you’ll need a space for other equipment like blenders, muddlers, cutting boards, and even napkins.

Plumbing Fixtures: If you opt for a wet bar, choose your sink wisely. Bar sinks come in various shapes and sizes and are generally smaller than a typical kitchen sink. If your wet bar is in or near the kitchen, opt for a style and finish similar to the kitchen sink to ensure a cohesive design. Consider your faucet and other fixtures carefully for design purposes, too.

Kitchens by Oaks: Quality You Can Trust

At Kitchens by Oaks, we’re here to help you with all your kitchen design and installation needs. Book a free consultation with one of our designers to help you decide whether a wet bar or a dry bar is right for your home. We’ll discuss all the aspects of your project and help you choose the perfect style and functionality for you and your guests.

Author | Sierra Zaremba, General Manager