How to Create a Home Beverage Center
It isn’t surprising that we’re seeing home beverage centers at the top of the wishlist during kitchen renovations. We’ve seen this feature take off in popularity lately, but even before COVID, we received constant requests for it. So…what is it exactly? What are the advantages? Why should you seriously consider it, if you haven’t before? Come take a look…
What are the advantages of a home beverage center?
Entertaining: Having been in homes all over Pensacola and Milton, we’ve noticed that kitchens don’t always accommodate easy entertaining. People want to create a place where guests can congregate and help themselves without traffic to the kitchen. Our clients were eager for this feature even before Covid, but now, popularity has skyrocketed! We are looking for easier and better ways to live and connect at home.
Clear Countertops: Seemingly small appliances like a Keurig, KitchenAid mixer, or espresso machine take up precious counter space in the kitchen. Coffee appliances also come with many accessories, like frothers, pods, syrups, and grinders, which can create a bit of countertop chaos. In addition to commandeering real estate, when the house chef (AKA, Steve) goes into full prep mode, these items are actually in the way. Solution? A home beverage center, where these items can live and be loved without becoming a burden.
Large Beverage Selection: Fun Fact…We have a much bigger selection of beverages than we had 10 -15 years ago. With all the variety, you may be running out of space in your main fridge. You can use a beverage fridge for easy access, and your main fridge won’t be overwhelmed. This is also a great way for family members and guests to help themselves without traipsing through the main kitchen area. Again, efficient!
Versatility: Beverage centers can accommodate a whole host of different functions and amenities. For example, we often get requests for wine fridges that allow you to keep white and reds at their optimal temperatures. You can also use a beverage fridge for soda, beer, juice, and water. Other features you can include in a beverage bar could be an ice maker, small sink, or snack storage. Perfect for guests sampling tapas, refilling their glasses, and milling about happily while the chef’s space remains clear.
Why should you consider adding a home beverage center?
If you’re renovating your kitchen, a home beverage center is a smart feature to add for several reasons beyond just your enjoyment:
Resale: Beverage bars have become a sought-after amenity in homes that are mid to upper price range. If you’re showing your home and someone doesn’t have a beverage center (and neither does the house for sale down the block), you can bet they will think your kitchen is fantastic.
Longevity: In general, taking functions that would usually happen in the kitchen and spreading them out over a larger surface area will contribute to greater longevity of those spaces. You won’t notice this in the day-to-day flow of things, but long-term it’s smart to diffuse high-traffic areas, limit wear and tear on the same cabinets, etc.
Vacation Rentals: If you use the house for VRBO or long-term rentals, a home beverage center can be a huge plus for potential guests. Not only does it make the space feel luxurious, but stocking it with beverages can add that personal touch that leads to repeat guests, 5-star reviews, and a fully booked listing.
Planning your ideal beverage center
A beverage center can be as simple as a nice countertop space or as well-appointed as a wall of cabinets with a wine fridge, beverage fridge, sink, and other specialty items. You also have the opportunity to add different finishes, create a focal point, and of course, create great storage outside of the kitchen. Here’s a great process for doing so:
1. Look at Your Existing Space: When we work on a kitchen remodel with a beverage center, we look at the existing cabinets. Fortunately, you don’t need a lot of space to create one; you just need one or two base cabinets to create a countertop to serve nicely for a beverage station. You will also want to consider its placement in relation to the main kitchen and the dining area. It should be accessible but not in the way.
Note: If your kitchen has a desk area popular in the ‘80s and ‘90s, this is often a perfect location to create the beverage center. A butler’s pantry is also a great space to double as a beverage bar.
2. Decide on How You Will Use The Space: What kind of beverages would you like to serve, and what appliances do they require? What would you like to store in this space? Form always follows function. Once you know the purpose of the space, you can outfit it to match.
As I mentioned before, there are some amazing under-counter wine fridges with space for keeping red and white wine separate. There are also beverage fridges that accommodate lots of cans, bottles, and even milk or creamer for your morning coffee.
3. Select Appropriate Storage: Depending on the appliances and glassware you plan to use at the beverage station, you want to make sure everything has a spot and is easily accessible. Decide if you want open or closed shelving. Do you want certain elements displayed through glass-paned cabinet doors? Will your ice machine be housed under or on the countertop?
After thinking through these steps, we then put pen to paper, designing a beverage bar that includes the elements you want in the right proportion, materials, and locations.
So, feeling ready to renovate your kitchen, complete with your own custom home beverage center? We can’t wait to help. Book a 15-minute consultation with us here. We can talk about your project and see if we’re a good fit.
Warmly,
Sarah