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17 Easy Homemade Basement Bar Plans

Image: Lucky Belly

Basement bars can be a cozy hideaway, providing an oasis of calm and somewhere to escape the stress of the daily grind. They can also be fun to build, and if you’re interested in taking on a challenging but rewarding project, here are 17 plans for DIY basement bars to show you how.

Table of Contents

1. How to Build a Basement Bar with Man Cave Advisor

To begin with, here’s a detailed blog post with all the information you need about installing a bar in your basement. Building a bar can be a large and challenging project but one that’s worth all the effort, and in this plan, you’ll find details of everything from choosing the layout and deciding on a theme to buying furniture and constructing the bar itself. When it comes to basement bars, the possibilities are endless – so reading this blog will help you get your ideas together before you start working on yours.

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2.

Custom Basement Bar Build DIY

If you’re looking for inspiration for the kind of basement bar you want to construct, this video is well worth a watch. It takes you through the building process from start to finish – which was almost 100% DIY apart from setting the granite – so you get to see as the bar takes shape. We love the way it looks when it’s finished, and we’re sure lots of people will want to build something similar – check it out to see if you’re one of them!

 

3. How to Build a Basement Bar with This Old House

If you have a basement, instead of letting the space go to waste and not using it for anything other than storage, why not turn it into your perfect bar? If that sounds like something you might be interested in, this blog will help you get started. What we like about this tutorial is that it goes into lots of detail about the planning stage – so that when you come to building your bar, you can avoid making mistakes. It includes a guide to budgeting too, so this is a plan that will also help you avoid spending more than you can afford.

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4. Our DIY Basement Bar

If you’re fortunate enough to have a large basement like these YouTubers, you can really let your imagination run wild about the kind of bar you can turn it into. These guys decided to go for an old-fashioned gentleman’s club-style décor, and the result looks fantastic. This is the kind of basement bar that anyone would be thrilled to own, and if you want to build one yourself, their plan will show you how.

 

5. How to Build an Epic Basement Bar

Here’s a high-quality basement bar plan from The Spruce that is essential reading if you are considering building one yourself. It discusses all the major decisions you’ll have to make, including things like having a wet or a dry bar, the type of lighting you’re going to install and the theme you choose. The plan also has a section containing useful tips for ensuring your project is a success, making it a valuable resource for anyone thinking of building a bar of their own.

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6. Homemade Bar for Your Mancave

Not every basement bar needs to be complicated or expensive, and building a simpler, more affordable option can also be a great choice if your space or budget is limited. That’s the kind of bar this YouTuber builds, and using only basic DIY techniques, he constructs a functional bar that forms the centerpiece of his mancave. We especially like the way he demonstrates everything clearly, making it easy to copy. This is the first video in a series of three – so check out the other two to see what it looks like when it’s completed.

 

7. How to Build a Home Bar – DIY Step by Step Guide

As this blogger writes, she couldn’t afford to pay someone to build her bar for her, so she decided to make one herself. We think she made the right decision too because what she created looks amazing. There’s loads of useful information about how to plan your basement bar, so it’s worth reading before you start building your own – and if you want to build one exactly the same as hers, you’ll find the detailed plans and diagrams on the site too.

Check the Tutorial Details

 

8. DIY Budget Bar Build – Under $100$

If you read the plan in #1, they told you the magic number for a basement bar is $20,000, and if you have that much money to spend, you can expect to be able to build something incredible. However, not everyone has that kind of cash to spend, and if your budget is more modest, this is a plan that should appeal. In it, this YouTuber shows us how he built his bar for less than $100. Sound interesting? Then give it a watch to see how he did it!

 

9.

DIY – How to Build Your Own Oak Home Bar

The bar in this plan is one of our favorites because it looks just like the real thing, which just goes to show what’s possible if you have the vision, the skills and the dedication to see the project through to the end. And for anyone who wants to copy, this plan also includes detailed instructions for how to recreate something similar in your home. This is a highly impressive plan that we enjoyed reading a lot – why not check it out to see if you agree?

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10. Building a Bar from Scratch Using Epoxy for the Countertop

There are lots of different styles you can choose for your basement bar, but this is one we particularly like. It features a stylish epoxy bar top along with lights that change color to match your mood. The bar is also relatively small, so you won’t need loads of space to build one of your own. A great option for anyone who wants to build a classy modern-style in their basement – we approve!

 

11. How to Build a Basement Bar with Hunker

As this plan explains, depending on the scope of your project, building a basement bar can be a major undertaking. If your plan is to convert a large basement into an authentic bar-style area, there is a lot you’ll need to think about before you even start buying materials or begin construction. However, to make sure you don’t get in over your head, this tutorial has all the information you need to make sure you do things right. It gives you a simple and logical plan to follow, and if you do it right, you may be able to build something similar to the lavish basement bar in the photo at the top of the page.

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12. How to Build Your Own Basement Bar at Home

Here’s a plan for anyone looking to build a complete bar in their home. As the blog explains, the budget you’re looking at for a major project like this will be in the $10k-30k range, so this is not a plan for people looking to do things on the cheap. However, if you want to go all in, you’ll find plenty of information about everything you need to think about during the planning stage to ensure you end up with the basement bar of your dreams.

Check the Tutorial Details

 

13. 4 Tips to Build Your Own Bar

As you have probably realized, building a basement bar is no simple task, and since there are so many options for customizing the bar to exactly the way you want it, there’s a lot of things to think about before you get started. This means that any hints and tips before you begin your project are sure to be welcome, and this blog gives you advice about four important aspects – bar molding, refrigeration, lighting and the back bar – so check it out before you build yours.

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14. How to Build a Bar – With Woodworking Plans

Here’s a useful video that teaches about constructing the actual bar. It consists of a time-lapse video demonstrating the process, and it also includes downloadable pdf for the build. A valuable resource for anyone who wants to try anything similar.

 

15. Building a Basic Home Bar

This is another great plan for anyone who wants to build an inexpensive bar in their home. It comes from the Instructables website, a veritable treasure trove of DIY plans for just about anything you can imagine, and this one doesn’t disappoint. You’ll find a list of materials, simple instructions and lots of useful photos, all of which will help you reproduce this plan in your own home.

Check the Tutorial Details

 

16. DIY Home Bar in 8 Easy Steps

If you are looking for a detailed plan you can follow to build a bar in your home, this one should be worth a look. It teaches you how to build a compact regular bar with one difference – it has an aquarium built into the front. We think this is a fantastic idea, and we’re sure lots of people will agree. And if you like it too, why not have a go at building one yourself?

Check the Tutorial Details

 

17. Ultimate Mini DIY Mancave

This video is not so much a plan as a source of ideas. In it, this YouTuber shows us round the mini home bar that he built, and what he created is spectacular. The thing we love most is his attention to detail – everything is just perfect – and if you want something similar, this is a video that’s sure to give you plenty of inspiration.

 

Plenty of basement bar options

As you can see, there are loads of ways to build a basement bar, with plans for budgets ranging from just $100 to $30,000 and more. We hope you’ve enjoyed reading and watching these plans as much as we have finding them for you – and above all, we hope you’ve found the inspiration you needed to build a basement bar of your own.

How to Build a Basement Bar

A bar can be the perfect addition to anyone’s basement. Here’s what you should keep in mind when planning your subterranean entertaining oasis.

What’s Your Dream Bar Like?

When you get past the daydreaming phase of basement bar construction, start making your dreams a reality by making a plan.

Begin by formulating your bar element wish list. Do you want a place to just refill beers? Or would you like it to be an entertainment center in its own right, with a mounted TV (or TVs!) and dedicated sound system? What are your favorite beverages? What are their storage requirements? You’d need to treat a big wine collection differently than you would a few rotating taps.

Next, consider your basement’s space and note the locations of any existing plumbing and electrical hookups. You’ll save time and money adhering to your home’s infrastructure and not running lots of lines all over.

Once you have a wish list and a location, think of your budget. How much can you spend on this project? What are you willing to do yourself and what will necessitate a professional to take on?

Finally, check with your local planning and building boards to make sure you have the necessary permits to complete the project. Some locales may require licensed electricians or plumbers to perform or sign off on the work.

Key Components for a Basement Bar

Time to sketch out your plans! If you keep things standard in terms of spacing, you’ll be able to easily source materials like stools and under-counter appliances. For design help, consult pre-designed plans from professional sources online or enlist the help of a designer.

Countertop/bar: The standard height and depth of a bar counter is 42” from the floor and 24” deep. Don’t try to go too much wider than 16-20” wide on your bar top (which includes the overhand) or you’ll have trouble passing drinks over.

Stools: Most bar stools are 28 to 32 inches from seat to floor, with dimensions chosen in relation to countertop height.

For comfort, aim to allow 12 inches from the top of the seat to the bottom of the counter. Make sure your plans provide for enough space between the counter’s edge and the back of the stool to allow people to easily get into and out of the seats (around 18 inches). Also provide for 2 to 3 feet of clearance behind the stool back and any wall or other obstruction.

How many do you want to fit at your bar? A minimum 24” (or a more generous 30”) of bar space for each seat is standard.

Foot rail: For resting tired feet, a foot rail about 7-9 inches above the floor adds a professional touch to a basement bar. Alternatively, look for barstools with footrests that are comfortable to use.

Bar molding: To keep drinks from sliding off, or just to rest your elbows, a curved lip at the countertop’s edge can add a practical and attractive touch to your bar design.

Work counter: From prepping garnishes to mixing drinks, a back-work counter makes for a more comfortable bar experience for all. If you’re building a wet bar, this is where your sink would typically be located.

Taps: If you plan an extensive beer tap system, you’ll need room for taps, a drip tray, and your keg lines, with easy access for regular line cleaning (ideally every 2 weeks). Plus, consider a kegerator to keep that keg cold.

Get an Economical Head Start with Pre-Fab Bar Parts

No need to re-invent the wheel here. Kits are readily available, and your local home brew supply shop should be happy to help set you up.

Keg tap kits: Full keg tap kits run about $200-$300 and include every bit of tube and tap you’ll need to get beer from your cooler to your glass. Talk to your home brewing experts whether you want to buy a kit or buy parts separately.

Kegerators and Refrigerators: Kegorators (a mash-up of the word “keg” and “refrigerator”) can be bought ready-to-go or made from converting a small fridge. For cooling beverages besides beer, plan for a second refrigerator—and for ice at a the ready, consider a freezer with ice maker.

Beer: This is the most important ingredient for a basement bar. Kegs of beer come in several sizes. For a home bar, a 5-gallon keg is plenty. There is no universal keg tap system, however, different breweries in different countries use distinct setups. Always check with your keg provider to ensure you have the right equipment to tap your keg at home.

Pre-Fab Bar: If you’re inclined to go the ready-made route, home bars are available for purchase online and in large home improvement stores. They’ll run anywhere from $300 to $3,000 (and up), depending on how big and grand you want to get.

Materials and Tools You’ll Need

Your bar building plan will dictate the materials you’ll need. Bars are typically framed in wood and are often finished in a finer grade wood or veneer, and sometimes stained or painted.

For countertop materials besides wood, consider stone, granite, metal, or just about anything you can repurpose into a flat bar top. Want an industrial vibe? Try galvanized metal for the sides of your bar. Money no object? Get some brass rails for your footrest or bar molding.

Tools for Construction:

Tools & Materials

Basement & Home Bar Design Ideas - 55 Best Basement & Basement Photo Ideas

Temptation Gray Bar

Thyme & Place Design LLC

When my client had to move from her company office to work at home, she set up in the dining room. Despite her best efforts, this was not the long-term solution she was looking for. My client realized she needed a dedicated space not on the main floor of the home. On one hand, having your office space right next to the kitchen is handy. On the other hand, it made separating work and home life was not that easy. The house was a ranch. In essence, the basement would run the entire length of the home. As we came down the steps, we entered a time capsule. The house was built in the 1950's. The walls were covered with original knotty pine paneling. There was a wood burning fireplace and considering this was a basement, high ceilings. In addition, there was everything her family could not store at their own homes. As we wound though the space, I though “wow this has potential”, Eventually, after walking through the laundry room we came to a small nicely lit room. This would be the office. My client looked at me and asked what I thought. Undoubtedly, I said, this can be a great workspace, but do you really want to walk through this basement and laundry to get here? Without reservation, my client said where do we start? Once the design was in place, we started the renovation. The knotty pine paneling had to go. Specifically, to add some insulation and control the dampness and humidity. The laundry room wall was relocated to create a hallway to the office. At the far end of the room, we designated a workout zone. Weights, mats, exercise bike and television are at the ready for morning or afternoon workouts. The space can be concealed by a folding screen for party time. Doors to an old closet under the stairs were relocated to the workout area for hidden storage. Now we had a nice wall for a beautiful console and mirror for storage and serving during parties. In order to add architectural details, we covered the old ugly support columns with simple recessed millwork panels. This detail created a visual division between the bar area and the seating area in front of the fireplace. The old red brick on the fireplace surround was replaced with stack stone. A mantle was made from reclaimed wood. Additional reclaimed wood floating shelves left and right of the fireplace provides decorative display while maintaining a rustic element balancing the copper end table and leather swivel rocker. We found an amazing rug which tied all of the colors together further defining the gathering space. Russet and burnt orange became the accent color unifying each space. With a bit of whimsy, a rather unusual light fixture which looks like roots from a tree growing through the ceiling is a conversation piece. The office space is quite and removed from the main part of the basement. There is a desk large enough for multiple screens, a small bookcase holding office supplies and a comfortable chair for conference calls. Because working from home requires many online meetings, we added a shiplap wall painted in Hale Navy to contrast with the orange fabric on the chair. We finished the decor with a painting from my client's father. This is the background online visitors will see. The last and best part of the renovation is the beautiful bar. My client is an avid collector of wine. She already had the EuroCave refrigerator, so I incorporated it into the design. The cabinets are painted Temptation Gray from Benjamin Moore. The counter tops are my favorite hard working quartzite Brown Fantasy. The backsplash is a combination of rustic wood and old tin ceiling like porcelain tiles. Together with the textures of the reclaimed wood and hide poofs balanced against the smooth finish of the cabinets, we created a comfortable luxury for relaxing. There is ample storage for bottles, cans, glasses, and anything else you can think of for a great party. In addition to the wine storage, we incorporated a beverage refrigerator, an ice maker, and a sink. Floating shelves with integrated lighting illuminate the back bar. The raised height of the front bar provides the perfect wine tasting and paring spot. I especially love the pendant lights which look like wine glasses. Finally, I selected carpet for the stairs and office. It is perfect for noise reduction. Meanwhile for the overall flooring, I specifically selected a high-performance vinyl plank floor. We often use this product as it is perfect to install on a concrete floor. It is soft to walk on, easy to clean and does not reduce the overall height of the space.

Naperville Modern Rustic Basement

Christie Kenny Interiors

In this Basement, we created a place to relax, entertain, and ultimately create memories in this glam, elegant, with a rustic twist vibe space. The Cambria Luxury Series countertop makes a statement and sets the tone. A white background intersected with bold, translucent black and charcoal veins with muted light gray spatter and cross veins dispersed throughout. We created three intimate areas to entertain without feeling separated as a whole.

North Ann Arbor Basement Remodel: Home Brewpub

Rochman Design-Build Inc.

In this project, Rochman Design Build converted an unfinished basement of a new Ann Arbor home into a stunning home pub and entertaining area, with commercial grade space for the owners' craft brewing passion. The feel is that of a speakeasy as a dark and hidden gem found in prohibition time. The materials include charcoal stained concrete floor, an arched wall veneered with red brick, and an exposed ceiling structure painted black. Bright copper is used as the sparkling gem with a pressed-tin-type ceiling over the bar area, which seats 10, copper bar top and concrete counters. Old style light fixtures with bare Edison bulbs, well placed LED accent lights under the bar top, thick shelves, steel supports and copper rivet connections accent the feel of the 6 active taps old-style pub. Meanwhile, the brewing room is splendidly modern with large scale brewing equipment, commercial ventilation hood, wash down facilities and specialty equipment. A large window allows a full view into the brewing room from the pub sitting area. In addition, the space is large enough to feel cozy enough for 4 around a high-top table or entertain a large gathering of 50. The basement remodel also includes a wine cellar, a guest bathroom and a room that can be used either as guest room or game room, and a storage area.

56th Street Project

Restor Homes

Basement reno,
A fresh design idea for a medium sized country style underground basement with a home bar, white walls, carpet, gray floor, wood ceiling and paneling on part of the wall - great interior photo

Timeless Black and White Remodel

Model Remodel

Black and white basement with home gym, bar and concrete floors.
Photo of a medium-sized neoclassical (modern classic) basement with a home bar, white walls, concrete floors and gray floor with

Secret Basement Speakeasy in Barrington

Advance Design Studio, Ltd.

Speakeasy entrance.
Fresh design idea for medium sized neoclassical (modern classic) underground basement with home bar, gray walls, vinyl flooring, wood fireplace front and gray floor - great interior photo

Thames Dr Basement - Livingston, NJ

KraftMaster Renovations

Huge basement in this beautiful home that got a face lift with new home gym/sauna room, home office, sitting room, wine cellar, lego room, fireplace and theater!

Basement with Murphy Bed

Innovative Construction Inc.

Our clients wanted to expand their living space down into their unfinished basement. While the space would serve as a family rec room most of the time, they also wanted it to transform into an apartment for their parents during extended visits. The project needed to incorporate a full bathroom and laundry.One of the standout features in the space is a Murphy bed with custom doors. We repeated this motif on the custom vanity in the bathroom. Because the rec room can double as a bedroom, we had the space to put in a generous-size full bathroom. The full bathroom has a spacious walk-in shower and two large niches for storing towels and other lines. Our clients now have a beautiful basement space that expanded the size of their living space significantly. It also gives their loved ones a beautiful private suite to enjoy when they come to visit, inspiring more frequent visits!

Hotel Inspired Basement Remodel- Ashburn, VA

Lauren Racowsky for Ethan Allen Sterling, VA

Chic. Moody. sexy. These are just a few of the words that come to mind when I think about the W Hotel in downtown Bellevue, WA. When my client came to me with this as inspiration for her Basement makeover, I couldn't wait to get started on the transformation. Everything from the poured concrete floors to mimic Carrera marble, to the remodeled bar area, and the custom designed billiard table to match the custom furnishings is just so luxe! Tourmaline velvet, embossed leather, and lacquered walls adds texture and depth to this multi-functional living space.

Speakeasy Entertainment Basement

Neil Kelly Company

The homeowners had a very specific vision for their large daylight basement. To begin, Neil Kelly's team, led by Portland Design Consultant Fabian Genovesi, took down numerous walls to completely open up the space, including the ceilings, and removed carpet to expose the concrete flooring. The concrete flooring was repaired, resurfaced and sealed with cracks in tact for authenticity. Beams and ductwork were left exposed, yet refined, with additional piping to conceal electrical and gas lines. Century-old reclaimed brick was hand-picked by the homeowner for the east interior wall, encasing stained glass windows which were also reclaimed and more than 100 years old. Aluminum bar-top seating areas in two spaces. A media center with custom cabinetry and pistons repurposed as cabinet pulls. And the star of the show, a full 4-seat wet bar with custom glass shelving, more custom cabinetry, and an integrated television-- one of 3 TVs in the space. The new one-of-a-kind basement has room for a professional 10-person poker table, pool table, 14' shuffleboard table, and plush seating.

Irish Pub Basement Bar

Schrock's Woodworking

Pictured: small rustic basement with outside access, home bar, white walls, light parquet floors, double sided fireplace, brick fireplace front, gray floor and brick walls

56th Street Project

Restor Homes

Basement reno,
Original design example of medium sized country style underground basement with home bar, white walls, carpet, gray floor, wood ceiling and paneling on part of wall

Reisterstown Stone Facade Basement

Taylor Made Custom Contracting Inc.

The goal for this 2000+ sq.ft. basement renovation was to create a new area that could be enjoyed by the entire family. An eye-catching three-part custom designed bar area in contrasting colors and natural stone served as the basement’s centerpiece. Wellborn Hancock Onyx cabinetry and crown molding accompanied by white quartz countertops were chosen to fit the bill. The backsplash stone façade on two walls added both texture and warmth. Stainless steel appliances including a bar-sized dishwasher, drawer-style microwave, under-mount sink, ice maker, and wine refrigerator provided a sleek finish throughout. Luxury vinyl plank flooring was installed throughout the entire basement to ensure durability for everyday use. With floating wood shelving,a double-door closet, roomy couch area, and a 70-inch TV mounted to the wall, the family room area will please both our clients, and their teenage children. The two-doored “Jack and Jill” style bathroom was purposely located between the guest/ office area and family room to ensure accessibility and privacy. A custom glass shower with glass tiled floor and wall accents coordinated with the Onyx colored white under-mount sinks. Access to a utility closet was tastefully disguised with a custom built-in shelved door created to look just like a bookcase. We call it their invisible closet door. Now that construction is over, let the fun begin!

Total Remodel (Smart Home)

Audio Video Specialists

Andy Mamott
Stylish design: large modern style basement with exterior windows, gray walls, dark parquet floors, gray floors and a home bar without a fireplace - the latest trend

Minneapolis Transitional

Filament Lighting & Home

Stylish design: medium-sized classic-style basement with exterior windows, gray walls, carpeting and a home bar - the latest trend

Large Lower Level Bar with Built-In Cabinetry

Abruzzo Kitchen & Bath

Large open floor plan in basement with full built-in bar, fireplace, game room and seating for all sorts of activities. Cabinetry at the bar provided by Brookhaven Cabinetry manufactured by Wood-Mode Cabinetry. Cabinetry is constructed from maple wood and finished in an opaque finish. Glass front cabinetry includes reeded glass for privacy. Bar is over 14 feet long and wrapped in wainscot panels. Although not shown, the interior of the bar includes several undercounter appliances: refrigerator, dishwasher drawer, microwave drawer and refrigerator drawers; all, except the microwave, have decorative wood panels.

Basement With Bling

DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen Springfield

This newer home had a basement with a blank slate. We started with one very fun bar stool and designed the room to fit. Extra style with the soffit really defines the space, glass front cabinetry to show off a collection, and add great lighting and some mirrors and you have the bling. Base cabinets are all about function with separate beverage and wine refrigerators, dishwasher, microwave and ice maker. Bling meets true functionality. photos by Terry Farmer Photography

Basement Bar and LEGO room

Board & Vellum

A custom built room for LEGO storage also provides a backdrop for a Media Room and a nearby bar. John Wilbanks Photography
An example of an original design: a neoclassical (modern classic) underground basement with gray walls and a home bar without a fireplace

a bar in a gothic cathedral, the first barbecue of autumn and a new season on Patricky - Afisha-Restaurants

Margarita Zamuraeva

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