• Basement bars add a functional, stylish and entertaining space to a home. They make good use of basement space and give adults a place to relax. To get the fullest enjoyment out of your basement bar, take some time to consider the design of the bar and choose the style that is right for your home. By taking some time to plan your bar perfectly, you will have a wonderful basement bar space to enjoy for years.
  
  

Consider the Space

• How will you use the bar? If you have a large wine cellar nearby and are primarily serving wine, you may want to choose a more upscale and elegant design with rich woods and fancy hardware. For a more casual bar with a focus on liquor or beer, you can choose something less traditional.
  
  

Consider Resale Value

• If you plan on selling your home in the future, consider the resale value. Your specific taste may not match the taste of prospective buyers. You will probably want to choose a design that reflects the style of the entire home and will appeal to the largest number of buyers. You can consult a local real estate agent to determine what will get you the most resale value.
  
  

Choose a Theme or Style

• Whether you choose a specific theme, such as a tiki bar or British pub, or not, you should ask yourself what you want the overall feeling of the bar space to be. Do you want it to feel warm and inviting or sleek and modern? What types of parties would you like to have? This will help you choose fixtures, colors and other elements to get the look you are trying to achieve.
  
  

Decide on Furniture

• Choose a furniture company that specializes in home bars. You will have a larger selection of bars and bar furniture to choose from in a variety of different styles and materials. In addition, the furniture will be made to stand up to constant bar use---particularly spills. When buying stools, choose a stool with a high back because it is far more comfortable for you and your guests. You an also choose a custom bar maker to build a bar to your exact specifications, taking into account the space and your budget.
  
  

Choose Lighting

• Lighting can transform a space, make it warmer and more inviting and showcase the hard work you put into the bar. General overhead lighting is important, but accent fixtures add style. Accent lighting under the bar rim, lights facing upward under bottles behind the bar and spotlights over the bar will make the bar feel complete.
  
  

Choose the Right Accents

• Don't place too many neon signs, pieces of sports memorabilia or other accent pieces around the bar. You want visitors to be able to focus on the areas you want attention---the the bar itself, the liquor selection and the glasses. The back wall is where all of your guests will face. Focus on that area.