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What’s better than owning your own home? Owning your own home … with a bar in the backyard!
Whether you’re inclined to focus on non-alcoholic refreshers or more adult beverages, few things will make a backyard as comfortable as your own drink station. Not only is it great for entertainment, but it also gives you a perfect spot to get away any time you want.
And it’s literally feet from your backdoor.
If you think a backyard bar has to be expensive, we have good news. There are ways to make it affordable. In this article, we’ll walk you through some of our top tips.
Follow our steps to create a backyard bar, and you’ll be the toast of your neighborhood.
Step One: Prepare the Space
Pick a convenient and comfortable area. There are a few considerations when scoping out your backyard.
- Shade – A covered patio or spot with tree cover will allow a reprieve from the sun and elements.
- Electricity – Pick a spot near an outlet or within reach of an extension cord, if possible.
- Amenities – Make it easy to carry supplies in and out by picking a spot close to the house.
Step Two: Pick Your Surface
There are great bar top options to fit any budget.
If money’s no option, you can spring for a pre-made outdoor unit, which comes in a huge variety of sizes and styles. If you’re trying to stay under budget or want something more unique, try these ideas.
Wine barrels
Scope out online marketplaces or antique shops for two or three used wine barrels. Throw a thick piece of wood on top and you’ve nailed the rustic look.
Pallets
Lots of businesses give these away.
Stand them on their edges to get the greatest height. Nail two to three together in front and one on each side to make it stable. All you need now is a wide plank of wood to attach to the top. Make this even more unique by showing off your painting skills.
Repurposed furniture
Check out secondhand stores for large planters, old hutches and dressers. Look for anything you can refinish with space for the accessories you’ll need.
Step Three: Seating
You don’t have to go with traditional bar stools. You can choose cozy patio furniture, picnic tables to hold a crowd, or hammocks for a tropical feel.
Even finished tree stumps or milk crates with cushions on top are fun!
Step Four: Refrigeration
You have to keep cold things cold. A sleek mini fridge will round out a more modern bar, but there are cheaper (and more charming) routes if you’re on a budget.
You don’t even have to plug in anything. Any container that will hold ice does the trick.
Galvanized tubs can add to both a rustic or industrial look. But don’t limit yourself. Wheelbarrows, small kiddie pools, large plant pots and, of course, coolers, all work.
Just stock up on beer, seltzers, soft drinks and water!
Step Five: Lighting
Create a great ambiance when the sun goes down with easy lighting. You can use string lights, candles, tiki torches or solar lights to set the mood.
Even repurposed holiday lights can work.
Step Six: Finishing Touches
You’re almost ready for a crowd. Just double-check you’ve got all you need for an easy and successful get-together around the bar.
- Bottle/wine opener
- Cups/glasses
- Napkins
- Dishes for limes, lemons and olives
- Trash bin
- Recycle bin
- Bluetooth speaker and your favorite playlist
The Bar Is Open!
Your backyard bar is sure to be the go-to spot for summer, holidays and weekends. Hang your “open” sign and get to work making all those memories with friends and family.