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Tips for Designing the Best Outdoor Bar Center
There’s something special about outdoor entertaining, where you can not only enjoy mouthwatering dishes in the company of loved ones but also breathe the fresh air and delight in the sun on your shoulders and the breeze on your brow. It all starts with installing the beautiful, functional outdoor kitchen island of your dreams.
In addition to a built-in grill and enough space for necessities like a sink, fridge, and storage, you should think about the extras that add desired function to customize your outdoor setup. One item many homeowners focus on is a beverage or bar center.
There are several options to explore, from simple drop-in coolers to bar caddies and full beverage butlers. Here at Stono Outdoor Living, we can help you design your dream bar center; check out these tips below.
Start With an Island
The foundation of any exceptional outdoor bar center begins with a well-designed kitchen island. Your island serves as the central hub where cooking, prepping, serving, and socializing all come together. Before selecting accessories like drop-in coolers or bar caddies, you’ll want to consider your island's size, shape, and layout to ensure it accommodates your unique entertaining style.
At Stono Outdoor Living, we make it easy to customize an island that works seamlessly with your outdoor space. Through our 3D configurator, you can explore various sizes and configurations to find the perfect fit for your patio or deck.
Drop-In Cooler
If your goal is to keep bottled or canned beverages cold and ready to serve, a drop-in cooler offers the simple, streamlined functionality you’re looking for. Forget bulky, unsightly, plastic coolers that you have to drag out of the garage for every function.
Instead, enjoy the convenience of up to 40 pounds of ice capacity (or more, depending on the model) in durable stainless steel that drops right into your island countertop. Weather-resistant and easy to reach, a drop-in cooler can be loaded with ice, drinks, and snacks, and some models include a handy, removable condiment tray. A built-in drain plug makes emptying melted ice after parties a cinch.
Built-In Refreshment Center or Bar Caddy
Take a basic ice bin to the next level with a high-end refreshment center in resilient stainless steel that withstands the elements and delivers appealing extras. It drops into the counter for easy access to chilled beverages and offers dual doors for increased convenience.
A front beverage shelf is ideal for housing liquor and mixers like whiskey, sherry, or bitters that are best kept at room temperature. With 30 pounds of ice capacity, you can keep a lot of liquids chilled, and a built-in drain system makes for easy cleaning after your guests have gone home.
An all-in-one bar caddy is another great upgrade, with a sliding storage drawer for condiments, utensils, and fun garnishes like drink swords and umbrellas. Bottle sleeves, a bottle opener, and a towel bar add essential functions.
Beverage Centers and Butlers
If you’re looking for a wet bar that not only cools your bottles but also offers the opportunity to get your mixology on, a combination sink and ice bin offers the sleek support you need. It starts with a sink that delivers a hot/cold faucet and soap dispenser, with extras like a sliding, removable cutting board.
An attached, insulated ice bin is more than a receptacle for champagne and craft brews when it features practical extras. With a removable three-part condiment tray, a bottle opener and cap catcher, a towel rack, and front bottle storage, this swanky setup in stainless steel is a boon for any backyard bartender.
An elegant beverage butler offers similar function with a luxury aesthetic. A sink with a hot/cold faucet is flanked by an ice bin with built-in condiment compartments for professional-level appeal. A removable cutting tray, a spacious front beverage caddy with a towel rack, and a bottle opener complete your outdoor kitchen setup.
Outdoor Wine Cooler
An outdoor fridge is great for housing meats, veggies, and condiments in preparation for grilling and serving. While you might have space for a few cans or bottles, no upscale beverage station is complete without a dedicated wine cooler.
A slender, 15″ model fits into tight spaces and features front venting so you don’t have to worry about your appliance overheating. It accommodates up to 20 bottles of your favorite vintage or brew, offers the convenience of electronic temperature control with a digital display, and provides safety and peace of mind with a locking door. Opt for a 24″ wine cooler for additional storage capacity.
Enjoy Chill Vibes With an Outdoor Bar Center
Outdoor entertaining can take many forms, and you need a kitchen setup that offers a measure of flexibility so you’re prepared for any type of gathering. The right beverage center will feature elements that help you cater to your guests.
Whether you’re hosting a children’s birthday party, a swanky evening soiree, or an intimate family dinner, your bar center sets you up for success with the elements that allow you to serve frosty bottles or craft delightful cocktails.
With models ranging from simple, drop-in coolers to full beverage butlers, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect bar center to suit your practical needs and style sensibilities.
Let the experts at Stono Outdoor Living help create your dream outdoor kitchen. Start building your kitchen with our 3D configurator; it's simple and easy to use. Or schedule a no-obligation design consultation to tailor a custom outdoor kitchen design that combines comfort, functionality, and style. We guarantee a perfect fit, free shipping, and easy assembly. Shop Islands or Schedule a Consultation today.