At-Home Bartender

How to curate a beautiful and functional bar cart

By Emily Shiffer » Photo by Tom Williams

Although the holiday season and new year's eve parties have come and gone, there are still plenty of celebrations to come in the new year. Whether you love a traditional nightcap or are participating in Dry January, a stocked bar cart is a fun way to display beverages of all types along with unique glassware that normally gets tucked away.

“Bar carts have always been popular,” said Kellie Sirna, interior designer and founder of Studio 11 Design. “Many bar carts are on wheels, which makes it easy to use and pull out when entertaining, and when you are done, you can tuck it back into the corner.” 

Not only are bar carts practical year-round for imbibing, but they can also serve as a conversation piece.

“The bar cart is where you can select a standalone and stand-out piece,” said Sirna. “They are fun and functional and can be a focal point in the room.” 

Ready to invite your friends over and whip up your favorite cocktail so you can show off your new bar cart? Below are a few things to consider when searching for the perfect bar cart for your space.

» Appealing Aesthetic

Bar carts come in a plethora of designs–choose one that fits your interior design style and complements existing pieces in the room.

“I have found the most incredible bar carts in my favorite vintage stores in brass and acrylic,” said Sirna. “I have also seen stunning bar carts in matte black, chrome and wood. The legs or sides could have an interesting detail, like over-scaled metal circles that act as handlebars to hold and move the cart, or ways to soften the cart by adding a curtain installed to the bottom level. “That way the guest's eye stays on the top service where you can mix cocktails.," said Sirna.

» Smooth Casters and Wheels

Ensuring your bar cart is set with balanced and fully functioning casters and wheels is important to prevent spills and make transportation around your home easy. “There is nothing worse than a cart that doesn’t have a smooth ride and all your accessories falling off the shelves. I would avoid buying any bar cart (vintage or new) that does not have good wheels,” said Sirna. “Make sure that when you are moving the cart that it’s smooth. You do not want to knock bottles and glasses over.”

» Consider Storage

In addition to showing off your bottles on top, your bar cart should also come with convenient storage options to help you stay organized and neatly display standout glassware and even pitchers. “I would select a cart that has two or three shelves,” said Sirna.

» Take Measurements

Make sure you also take note of the bar cart's dimensions–especially height, so that it’s comfortable to stand near to mix up beverages. “I would suggest that the cart is at least 30 to 36 inches high,” said Sirna.

» Curate a Lovely Display

Presentation is important for your guests to see your spread and what you have to offer. “Keep the items you use the most on the top shelf of the bar cart,” said Sirna. “I would recommend adding a bar tray and styling the glasses on the tray with cut citrus in a separate dish.”

Organize your bottles, and don’t forget an ice bucket.

“I like to use crystal decanters next to the glasses in different shapes and sizes,” said Sirna. “Store the bottles on the shelf underneath in an organized display based on their height. Pre-make a fun cocktail and serve it in a beautiful pitcher on the cart and voilà - you are ready to party!”