How To Plan The Perfect Home Bar: A Step-By-Step Guide

Imagine it. You walk in after a hard day. Your home bar is waiting for you, inviting you to make yourself a cool drink. If you long for the ability to pull up a chair with a glass of your favorite suds enjoying time with family and friends right in your own home, you should know that it’s easier than you think. With this step-by-step guide, you can build the home bar of your dreams.

Select a Location

Before you can start designing your home bar, you must choose a location in your home that will accommodate everything you need. Think about what you want to have in the bar. Do you want a small space for mixing drinks in your dining room? Or would you rather have a dedicated entertainment space for the bar, perhaps in the basement or on the patio? Make a list of furniture and appliances you’ll need. Consider using an augmented reality app to help you test out different configurations and confirm that you have enough space for everything you want.

Create a Functional Layout

Once you have the location, you can start to create a floor plan. Although a home bar could be a work of art, it should also be functional. Set a reasonable bar height, 42 inches for most people. If you want seating at the bar, be sure to leave at least 24 inches per seat. Avoid overcrowding the countertop, as you’ll need room to mix drinks (and possibly prepare snacks). Don’t forget about storage. If you’re going to keep your appliances below the counter, consider shelves or upper cabinets for the barware.

Identify Your Style

With a general layout in mind, you can brainstorm the best style for your bar. Think about the aesthetic that you’re hoping for. Do you long for a design that reminds you of a Victorian country home? Aim for lots of wood and gentle curves. Would you prefer to keep it simple? Consider open shelving and clean lines. Dying for a maximalist style? Go wild with wallpaper and intricate tilework. Just make sure that the design works with the rest of the space, using a cohesive color palette or other common design elements.

Choose Equipment and Barware

Now that you have a layout and general style for the bar, you can start to choose equipment and barware. Consider appliances that will keep your bottles and cans at the perfect temperature for serving, such as a beer cooler or wine fridge. Install a sink with a hot water line for easy cleanup. For barware, make sure that you cover bases with bar tools, such as a blender or shaker. Add glasses for your favorite drinks, including wine glasses, beer mugs, and highball glasses.

Stock the Bar

With everything in place, you just need to stock the bar. Depending on your tastes, filling out the bar can be a budget-buster. Measure the space, and plan to make multiple trips to the store. Cover the bases, including the most common spirits, a few bottles of wine, and your favorite beers. Remember to include mixers and garnishes, like cola or cherries. Aim for a smaller selection of your favorites instead of trying to get everything at once. You’ll need to be able to grab the bottles without causing the others to topple. 

Building a home bar can give you a great space to relax or entertain, with everything you want for a wonderful night. By following this guide, you’ll know what you need to make the perfect bar for your home.

Author bio: Trevor Crivello is the founder and President of Iron Mountain Refrigeration and has a decade of experience in commercial refrigeration. Iron Mountain Refrigeration supplies commercial refrigeration equipment to fast-casual restaurants ranging from small operations to large national chains. Crivello leads Iron Mountain Refrigeration with a passion for quality and a devotion to providing the highest level of customer service.

SOURCES

https://www.luxlampshades.com/blogs/lux-blog/designing-your-home-bar-a-step-by-step-guide

https://homegamesroom.co.uk/blogs/home-bar-setup-and-essentials/setting-up-a-home-bar-a-step-by-step-guide

Elevate Your Entertaining: How To Craft the Perfect Deck for Hosting Events

Creating a space where you can entertain guests while simultaneously enjoying the great outdoors is a dream for many homeowners. A well-designed deck not only adds value to your home but also serves as an extension of your living space, merging the comforts of indoors with the beauty and openness of outside. Whether you're planning intimate gatherings or extravagant parties, crafting the perfect deck requires thoughtful planning and design. In this guide, we will explore key elements that contribute to creating a sophisticated and functional hosting venue right in your own backyard.

Design With Purpose

The first step in crafting the ideal entertaining deck is to define its purpose. Consider how you plan to use the space — will it be primarily for family dinners, large social gatherings, or perhaps both? This will guide decisions on size, layout, and features. For example, if you anticipate hosting large parties, you'll need ample seating areas and possibly multiple levels or zones for different activities. Conversely, an intimate dining setting might prioritize cozy nooks with built-in seating or a fireplace feature.

Choose High-Quality Materials

Investing in high-quality materials will ensure longevity and minimal maintenance for your deck over time. Hardwood options like ipe and teak offer durability and a sophisticated aesthetic but come at a higher price point. Composite materials are increasingly popular due to their resilience against weather conditions and ease of care without sacrificing style. Regardless of choice, selecting materials that complement the architectural style of your home will create a cohesive look that enhances overall curb appeal.

Incorporate Functional Features

To truly elevate your entertaining experience, consider incorporating functional features such as built-in bars, grilling stations, or even outdoor kitchens equipped with refrigeration units and prep spaces. These additions allow hosts to prepare meals effortlessly while remaining engaged with guests — a must-have for any serious entertainer. Moreover, integrating technology such as sound systems or ambient lighting can add another layer of sophistication and ensure events transition seamlessly from day to night.

Create Ambiance With Lighting and Decor

When it comes to outdoor entertaining, lighting and decor play a crucial role in setting the mood and ambiance of your space. Consider incorporating various lighting elements such as string lights, lanterns, or even subtle LED fixtures strategically placed throughout the area. These lighting choices not only provide functional illumination but also add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your outdoor gatherings. Additionally, carefully selecting decor items such as stylish furniture, cozy cushions, and vibrant outdoor rugs can elevate the overall aesthetic appeal while ensuring utmost comfort for your guests.

Plan for Weather and Privacy Considerations

When designing your deck, it's essential to take into account weather conditions and privacy considerations to ensure a comfortable and intimate outdoor experience. Incorporating elements like pergolas or retractable awnings can provide shade during hot days or shelter from light rain. Utilizing outdoor curtains or decorative screens can add an extra layer of privacy, creating a cozy and secluded ambiance. Additionally, integrating features like outdoor heaters or fire pits can extend the usability of your deck during cooler evenings or seasons.

Designing a remarkable deck that seamlessly blends style, functionality, and purpose is an art form worth investing in. By envisioning how you intend to use the space and carefully considering the needs of your gatherings, you can tailor your deck to accommodate everything from intimate dinners to extravagant celebrations. A company like Timberbuilt Rooms can provide more information on building a custom deck. With each element meticulously selected and harmoniously integrated, your deck will not only enhance the value of your home but also become a remarkable extension of your living space — an enticing outdoor oasis for hosting memorable moments and embracing the beauty of the great outdoors.

From Intimate Dinners to Grand Galas, Find the Perfect Table for Every Occasion

We partnered with a home design company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

Are you in charge of planning a corporate event, or is it a friendly get-together party you’re hosting? In any case, you will need suitable table pieces that perfectly match the theme of the occasion. Nowadays, you can manage this task easily, thanks to the online services that rental furniture companies offer. There are various choices available, so you will surely find the one that you’re looking for. From intimate dinners to grand galas, there are tables for rent in different styles and sizes. Depending on the space, whether the event takes place outdoors or indoors and what the occasion is, you can make the final decision. 

A Wide Variety of Choices to Fit Every Occasion

As we have already stated, rental furniture companies offer a wide array of tables that cater to every occasion. From the sleek, sophisticated cocktail glass tables to the vintage trestle tables, anything you need is out there. Are you looking for elegant Hoxton tables, or is it the beer tables that you need? You can find these pieces online, and the special crew will get it to you in no time. Coffee tables, side tables, cafe tables, dining tables - you just name it. Whatever your event, whether it's a lavish gala or an intimate dinner gathering, you and the group of professionals will make it work.

How to Choose the Suitable Table for the Event

When selecting the table for your event, you need to carefully consider various aspects to ensure it is ideal for the occasion. Factors such as the venue size and layout, the type and theme of the event, the number of guests expected, and the desired atmosphere all play a crucial role. Still, this is not all. Practical aspects like the functionality of the table, its durability, and ease of setup should be weighed. By assessing these elements thoughtfully, you can choose a table that meets your aesthetic preferences.

Taking Space into Account

Before you select tables for the event, it is crucial to assess the spatial dynamics of the venue. Whether the space is expansive or intimate, wide or narrow, indoors or outdoors, enclosed or open-air, each aspect profoundly influences the choice of table. For instance, in a compact indoor setting, opting for sleek, space-saving designs like cocktail or cafe tables can maximise space and encourage guests to mingle. On the other hand, in vast outdoor locales, more durable and weather-resistant options such as picnic or trestle tables may be preferable to accommodate larger gatherings. By considering these variables, you can choose the model that harmonises with the event's setting.

Considering the Theme of the Event

Selecting the style of table for an event depends greatly on aligning it with the theme of the occasion. You don’t want to mess up with furniture that is totally out of it. Thus, to create a harmonious, tasteful atmosphere, you need to think twice. For instance, if you’re hosting a formal affair, such as a black-tie gala, elegant and refined options like round or banquet tables draped in luxurious linens can exude sophistication and grandeur. Conversely, for a rustic outdoor wedding, charming farmhouse or picnic tables can evoke a relaxed vibe. By meticulously matching the style of the table to the theme of the event, you can create an elegant look and leave a lasting impression on attendees.

Final Thoughts

whether you're organising a corporate event or hosting a casual gathering, finding the perfect table is pivotal to setting the stage for a memorable experience. Thanks to the convenience of online rental furniture services, today, a diverse array of options is available to suit every occasion and theme. By carefully considering factors such as the space of the venue and event theme, along with practical considerations, you can select the ideal table that perfectly goes with your vision. We hope our recommendations will help you find the perfect furniture for your event and wish you luck with your plans. 

The Essential Bathroom Inventory Checklist For Hosts

We partnered with a home design company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.

The journey to a memorable guest experience begins with a bedroom and a bathroom ambiance. Every Airbnb host knows the key to happy guests is a stocked home and a flawless bathroom. 

Learn about the bathroom essentials rental hosts must provide for a more fulfilling guest experience. This article covers the bathroom essentials checklist, including cleaning supplies and waste management. 

So, read the ultimate guide for every Airbnb host just starting and say hello to superb guest experiences!

Bath Towels & Linens

Here is a list of bathtub accessories Airbnb hosts should provide for a refined guest experience. 

1. Bath Towels:

Good-quality towels efficiently wick away moisture from the skin after the shower. Bath towels with antimicrobial features combat unpleasant odors, bacteria, and mildew, ensuring your guests maintain cleanliness and health throughout their stay. 

Don’t forget to try Sferra bath sheet. These Turkish bath towel sets are designed to keep guests comfortable after a bath.

2. Face Towels:

Face towels are necessary bathroom essentials in a vacation rental home, providing guests with a dedicated solution for refreshing faces. These also promote cleanliness and incite a positive guest experience.

3. Beach & Pool Towels:

If your property is close to a beach or recreational area, offer beach and pool towels for your guests. These high-quality towels are perfect for drying off after a swim in the ocean. Providing top-notch beach and pool towels at your Airbnb can impact guests' experience.

4. Bath Slippers:

Bath slippers offer a secure, anti-slip solution for guests on wet bathroom floors, ensuring comfort and cleanliness.

5. Hand Towels:

Hand towels can quickly absorb excess water from the hands and let your guests dry off their hands after washing. Hand towels have high utility in the kitchen and bathroom to enhance hygiene. For premium hand towels, look no further than Turkish hand towels for bathroom. They are soft, lightweight, durable, and perfectly wick away moisture from the skin.

Toiletries

Some of the must-have countertop bathroom accessories include

1. Shampoo & Conditioner:

Shampoo cleanses hair and scalp, providing a lighter and voluminous feel, while conditioner nourishes and smoothens hair strands, offering a silky texture. These bathroom essentials revitalize guests' hair at your short-term rental, washing away accumulated dirt and oil after a day of adventure. 

Once you've stocked up on enough shampoo and conditioner bottles for your rental homes, opt for refill packets to minimize environmental impact by reducing the use of single-use plastic.

2. Bar Soap & Body Wash:

Bar soap and body wash are essential for cleansing the body. Bar soap is solid and keeps the skin clean, while body wash, like Dove nourishing milk body wash, is a liquid that gently cleanses and moisturizes all skin types, providing a wholesome bathing experience.

3. Body lotion:

Let your guests pamper themselves with a premium body lotion. It moisturizes & rejuvenates their skin, leaving them feeling refreshed throughout their stay.

4. Hand lotion: 

Pamper your guests with a high-quality hand lotion to ensure clean and hygienic hands throughout their stay.

5. Tissues: 

Tissues are must-have bathroom essentials at every vacation rental home. From wiping hands to cleaning spills and everything in between, tissues enhance overall hygiene for a refined guest experience.

6. Makeup Remover:

Provide a makeup remover in your rental home to let guests easily cleanse their skin, removing makeup and keeping it clean and clear throughout their stay.

7. Tooth Paste & Toothbrush: 

Toothpaste and toothbrush are essential for oral care, working together to remove plaque, prevent cavities, and maintain fresh breath. These vital tools contribute to your guests’ daily dental care routine, promoting healthy teeth and gums for guests at your short-term rental.

8. Mouth Wash:

Provide a good mouthwash for your guests for a refreshing breath and enhanced oral hygiene throughout their stay and beyond.

9. Shaving Kit:

The kit includes shaving cream, gel, razor, and other Airbnb bathroom essentials, ensuring a shaving experience that is both clean and hygienic for your guests.

10. Hair Dryer: 

Encourage your guests to explore various hairstyles by providing a convenient hair dryer. Enhance their experience by offering this useful amenity, allowing them the flexibility to style their hair to their liking throughout their visit.

Cleaning Checklist

For a clean & shining vacation rental home: 

1. All-Purpose Cleaner:  

An all-purpose cleaner are crucial bathroom essentials, elevating hygiene standards in your short-term rental. 

Formulated to effectively remove oil, dirt, and grease without damaging the surfaces, it ensures cleanliness and a well-maintained environment at your Airbnb.

2. Toilet Bowl Cleaner:

It is an essential bathroom cleaning item formulated to ensure your toilet and bathroom are deeply cleaned & smell at their best.

3. Microfiber Cloths:

Microfiber cloths are the ultimate cleaning essentials, perfect for safely cleaning countertops and reflective surfaces without causing any damage. They are versatile, durable, and effective against bacteria, serving as an eco-friendly choice for vacation rental hosts.

4. Broom & Mop: 

It’s simple. Enhance the cleanliness of your rental home with the broom and mop. As guests prioritize cleanliness & hygiene when choosing accommodations, these bathroom essential sets are non-negotiables for every Airbnb.

5. Surface Disinfectant Sprays: 

Surface disinfectant spays are formulated to kill germs on surfaces. It helps Airbnb hosts to maintain a hygienic environment by reducing the spread of infection. Regular use of disinfectant post-cleaning ensures a clean & healthy accommodation for your guests.

6. Shower & Bathtub Drain Catch:

A drain catch, or a hair catcher, is placed in drains to prevent hair, debris, and other particles from clogging the pipes. It helps maintain proper drainage in sinks and showers, reducing the risk of blockages and the need for plumbing maintenance in your vacation rental.

7. Laundry Detergent: 

Laundry detergent is an integral cleaning product in washing machines to remove dirt stains from clothes and linens while preserving the fibers. It helps guests easily preserve their clothing during their stay, promoting convenience and cleanliness.

8. Toilet Brush:

A toilet brush thoroughly cleans your Airbnb bathroom’s toilet bowl. Pair it with a suitable toilet cleaner to remove dirt and germs from your toilet bowl, ensuring a clean and fresh bathroom.

9. Plunger:

In a busy vacation rental, guests might face unexpected plumbing issues. A plunger lets them quickly handle minor clogs, promoting a self-sufficient and fulfilling guest experience.

10. Air Freshener:

An air freshener is one of the most necessary Airbnb bathroom essentials, offering a pleasant and inviting atmosphere. Whether used in bathrooms or bedrooms, air fresheners help eradicate odors and create a welcoming environment for guests.

Waste Management

1. Garbage Cans 

Garbage cans keep your rental home clean & hygienic. Ensure you buy one with a lid to prevent the invasion of insects and mosquitoes and the spread of bad odor.

2. Garbage Covers: 

The trash cover is placed around the garbage can to gather and dispose of all waste, keeping the trash can clean and maintaining overall hygiene.

3. Tissue Box Cover: 

A tissue box is an Airbnb essential that provides quick access to tissues for various needs. A tissue box ensures guests can readily access tissues for wiping hands, handling spills, or minor cleaning tasks. 

Without them, guests may use hand towels for all purposes, potentially increasing your costs.

Miscellaneous 

1. Shower Curtains:

Shower curtains provide privacy in the bath and prevent the water from wetting the bathroom surface. While sliding doors can serve the purpose, they can’t be easily cleaned & maintained. In such cases, shower curtains become the most preferable option.

2. Hooks & Holders:

Hooks and holders are essential organizers in your vacation rental, providing convenient storage solutions for towels, robes, and other toiletries. 

These simple additions enhance the bathroom's functionality, keeping the space tidy and ensuring guests easily access their bathtub accessories. Hooks and holders also contribute to a well-organized and comfortable stay.

3. Bath Mat or Rug:

Absorbs excess water from the feet. Wet bathrooms have slippery floors. In some cases, your guests may slip after bathing and get injured. These mats will prevent them from slipping, absorb excess water from the body, and also regulate body temperature. It is a must-have item in your bathroom essentials checklist to enhance the safety of the bathing space.

4. Soap Dispenser:

Enables users to access fresh liquid with each pump. The liquid soap dispenser offers a convenient handwashing solution, effectively preventing the spread of bacteria and infection.

5. Toilet Paper:

Toilet paper rolls are must-have bathroom essentials for every vacation rental home to ensure your guests a comfortable and hygienic stay.

6. Clear Instruction Manual:

An instruction manual serves as a crucial guide for guests during check-in, providing vital information on property rules, do’s and don’ts, and guidelines for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene. 

It ensures a smooth stay, contributing to a positive and informed guest experience in your vacation rental.

Conclusion 

A well-stocked bathroom is the secret to exceptional hosting. The provided bathroom essentials checklist ensures hosts create a welcoming space with premium toiletry items, lines, and anti-slip bath slippers. 

Attention to cleanliness adds to the positive guest experience. Hosts prioritizing these bathroom essentials leave a lasting impression on your guests. 

Happy hosting!