But What If I Don't Want a Bar Cart?
Five boozy set ups that don't require a trendy furniture purchase.
Yeah yeah, we get it. Bar carts are the jam. There's no denying the Draperian cool that comes with sidling up to a little brass number and pouring some Canadian Club into a silver-rimmed tumbler, or the Brooklynian cool of sidling up to a little reclaimed-wood number and pouring some Bulleit into a mason jar. But, if you find yourself in the predicament of not having the square footage or the budget to invest in the flashy furniture purchase, there's no need to store your liquor out of sight, or, heaven forbid, atop your kitchen cabinets. (Real talk: don't do that.)
Here, a few worthy spots to create a bar set up, whether permanent or party-ready, that are just as cool as a cart.
1. A Center Table. This living room gives us all the feels for a few reasons. The atypical furniture setup, featuring a cozy daybed and a Saarinen-style pedestal table is perfect for entertaining. The quirky combination feels like a bold (and intentional) decorating choice and serves a multitude of purposes in a small space. The table's round shape and central location make the piece a perfect spot for mixing drinks.
2. The Bookshelf. Reading is overrated. Clear out some of those dusty tomes (they belong on your coffee table anyway) and make room for some bottles. Lonny contributor Cat Dash knew what she was doing when she made over her dining room to incorporate a little cocktail nook.
3. A Console Table. This slim piece is well-suited to small spaces and can serve multiple purposes from desk to vanity to entry table, should the allure of the bar setup ever fade. We particularly love this posh scene, found in the New York City home of power broker Emily Beare, designed by Robert Passal.
4. A Floating Shelf. We've all got a little wall real estate to spare. Why not put it to a suitable use, holding gorgeous glassware, objets, and choice bottles as Studio Four founder Kate Temple Reynolds did in her playful townhouse. Backing them with mirror makes things extra moody.
5. In a Tray. This cute corralling option has the same effect as a bar cart—it's even mobile—with none of the commitment. Go for a simple woven piece for a casual summer house vibe, something mirrored with a note of glam, or silver-plated for an old-world feeling.
Still pining for that on-trend trolley of libations? Check these out, but you didn't hear it from us.
