In this custom illuminated onyx bar topped with three-dimensional open cage-like pendants Equilibrium Interior Design created contrast and a focal point using richly colored oil painting.

Pirate's Cove

Black Ink Interiors

Under the fort is the bar. Marble that looks like the map of the world was used on the countertop, island and backsplash. The Union Jack hides the t.v. when not in use. The opening to the right of the photo is a tunnel from the pool to the bar area. On your swim through, you can take a break on the ledge inside and admire the aquarium. Misters and fans provide relief on hot summer days. Jenny Slade photography

Unique backsplash

Photos by Dana Hoff

SGDI - Sarah Gallop Design Inc.

The objective was to create a warm neutral space to later customize to a specific colour palate/preference of the end user for this new construction home being built to sell. A high-end contemporary feel was requested to attract buyers in the area. An impressive kitchen that exuded high class and made an impact on guests as they entered the home, without being overbearing. The space offers an appealing open floorplan conducive to entertaining with indoor-outdoor flow. Due to the spec nature of this house, the home had to remain appealing to the builder, while keeping a broad audience of potential buyers in mind. The challenge lay in creating a unique look, with visually interesting materials and finishes, while not being so unique that potential owners couldn’t envision making it their own. The focus on key elements elevates the look, while other features blend and offer support to these striking components. As the home was built for sale, profitability was important; materials were sourced at best value, while retaining high-end appeal. Adaptations to the home’s original design plan improve flow and usability within the kitchen-greatroom. The client desired a rich dark finish. The chosen colours tie the kitchen to the rest of the home (creating unity as combination, colours and materials, is repeated throughout). Photos- Paul Grdina

The Foundry is a locally owned and operated nonprofit company, We were privileged to work with them in finishing the Coffee and Bar Space. With specific design and functions, we helped create a workable space with function and design.

Secluded Retreat

Holden Design Group

secluded family retreat

Brewster contemporary meets Mediterranean mix

At Home Design LLC

Wet bar custom designed to fit hall space between living room and parlor.

Contemporary Kitchens

Canyon Cabinetry & Design

Manufacturer: Wood-Mode & Brookhaven Door Style: Vanguard Plus, Vista Veneer Plus Wood: Rough Sawn Euro Oak Veneer; Cherry Finish: M102 Foundry; 47 Dark Lager

Back lit onyx countertops in home bar

Denise Quade Design

Lighting plays a key role in this home bar. LED tape lighting was used in the wall cabinets behind the leaded glass panels, in the toe space of the base cabinets, under neath the onyx countertops that were inlaid into the wood frame that features the bar rail.

Home Basement Bar

Pamela Singer & Associates

Beth Singer

Liberty Bell

329 Design

Bavarian Mountain Transitional

Balance Point Construction

LED Mesh Backlit onyx bar. Native Trails hammered tin sink.

Mediterranean Estate

HoneyBee Designz

Shelby Halberg Visuals

Transitional Home Bar

Great Falls Basement - Fireplace

Synergy Design & Construction

A striking onyx countertop becomes the focal point of the basement bar. Combined with with natural stone, rich woods, and bold colors, the basement has a transitional feel.

Gettysburg Hunting

Grassland Granite

Home Bar Design Ideas with Limestone Benchtops and Onyx Benchtops

A home bar can provide a spot of indulgence for one, or be a central hub you gather round when entertaining. Whether you’re thinking of planning a wine bar, outdoor bar, or just making room for a bar cart, browse these images for inspiration, and ask yourself the following questions.

Where should you position your home bar?

The most popular location for a home bar is in or near the kitchen or dining room. If you prefer entertaining outdoors, however, an outdoor bar can be a dream addition to any Aussie backyard – and imagine the luxury of swimming up to your very own pool bar! If you're building from scratch, a landscape architect can help you work out the ideal design for your space.

What type of home bar is best suited to your needs?

Home bars come in all shapes and sizes, and with an array of practicalities. Utilise an awkward corner with a cabinet bar; maximise floor space with a trunk bar, which unfolds to create a bar counter; or conveniently turn any space in your house into a bar room with a mobile bar such as a fun bar cart. If you prefer a more grandiose option, or all the amenities of a real bar, you can’t go past a built-in home bar.

What home bar functionalities do you want to include?

Decide how you will use the bar and whether you will need sinks, storage and refrigeration. Including a sink in your home bar design is a practical addition if you choose a location far from your kitchen. If you’re a wine connoisseur, you may want to include additional wine storage, whereas a mini bar fridge within the kitchen may need no extra storage at all. Home bars that will be used infrequently – perhaps an outdoor bar in the cooler months – may not need refrigeration and could suffice with large ice buckets.

What bar furniture will you need?

Seating is essential to any home bar and will impact the style of your home bar design. Bar stools, for example, come in an array of materials and styles, from traditional wooden bar stools, to resort- and industrial-style stools. Storage is another important element, so look for a liquor cabinet and wine racks. Next, if you are creating a freestanding station, you will need a bar table, which are taller and shallower than regular dining tables. Check that your stools and table height work together before you finalise any home bar designs.

How can you personalise your bar design?

Bar tools and accessories are an easy and interchangeable way to personalise your bar design. You may want to create a wine bar, tavern-style bar or retro bar, so look for wine glasses and tumblers, for instance, that will help carry this style. Coasters, bar mats or signage will help you to further achieve your desired look.