What basement bar ideas are trending in 2025?
Because basement bars are separated from the rest of the house, they offer an opportunity to take a design risk or choose a look that might not meld with your other home decor. “They’re the perfect place to add unique flourishes since basements are self-contained spaces that welcome close family and friends,” says Barber. “And this means a lot of people are leaning into kitsch—personalized spaces that speak to the homeowner’s particular interests.” This might mean giving a nod to a favorite destination (like Tokyo, to show off your Japanese whiskey collection) or going for a full-fledged nautical theme (see number one above).
For more basement ideas, Murphy says that custom shelving (floating shelves, built-in wine racks, and glass cabinets for showcasing spirits and glassware); high-contrast materials (for example, pairing matte black finishes with metallic accents, or natural wood with sleek stone); dramatic lighting (oversized pendant lights, LED strip lighting, and under-cabinet lighting); and dual-purpose bars (a space that doubles as a home office or lounge area) are all popular design ideas for home bars. She’s also a fan of dark and moody color palettes. “Deep, rich hues, like black, navy, and emerald green are popular for creating a cozy, speakeasy-inspired feel, which I absolutely adore!” she says.
How to build a DIY basement bar
Rolling in a bar cart is both DIY friendly and budget friendly. Bouffard suggests adding floating shelves above the cart to create a more substantial bar area with additional storage. To upgrade your shelving, Carman suggests including a large antique mirror glass panel as well. “This adds depth, elegance and a perfect place to show off a collection of spirits,” she says. “And don’t start from scratch on your accessories or glassware either. Search through those long-forgotten boxes of family memorabilia and glassware. Old trophies, antique wine glasses, and vintage photos will add an element of family lore and authenticity (and it would make your family tree proud!).”
How to maximize a small space for a basement bar
“If you don’t have space for a sink and ice maker, consider just a dry bar,” says Barber. “It can create the same vibe but in half the space.” She also encourages being mindful about the use of vertical space in a small basement bar by incorporating glass and brass bistro shelving, which “can add a sparkle while still allowing the space to feel open and not too cramped.”
How much does it cost to build a basement bar?
Of course there’s a wide range in costs depending on whether you’re going with that bar cart or building out a basement bar area in a large space with a kitchenette, custom cabinetry, game room, and media room. “I’d say $25,000 is the entry for decent cabinetry, counters, lighting, hardware, plumbing, and appliances,” says Barber. “But large basement bars with multiple taps, ice makers, fridge drawers, and other bespoke details fall well in the six-figure range—similar to what a high-end kitchen would cost.”
Bouffard echoes that sentiment. “The cost of a basement bar can vary wildly; $5,000 could set the mood for a simple, cozy bar, while $150,000 could transport you straight into the jazziest 1920s watering hole.”