We recently did a photo shoot at a client’s home and she had a gorgeous bar cart in the dining space (top image below), and it inspired me to rearrange my own and enjoy it more regularly. Styling a bar cart is a fun and creative way to display your personal style, and create a practical moving party! Having all your chosen drinks and cocktail tools in one space enhances the skill and joy of entertaining friends or family.

The starting stages of adding a bar cart to your entertaining space are all about function rather than fun, however deciding details such as location early will make the set-up a success long-term. The fun really begins is when it’s time for decorating! Styling and stocking your transportable drink station is an opportunity to create a focal point (and talking point) you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Choose a space

Before you go ahead and purchase that beautiful cart you have had your eye on, choose the space where it will be located. Typically bar carts are placed in the dining or living area where most of the entertaining happens. Once you have your desired space try putting a large piece of furniture in the spot as a placeholder, testing out if any issues arise such disrupting the flow of the space. Take note of any extra space around the cart and add pieces of art or décor to style the area more.

Select a style

An existing decorating style helps when deciding on the material and finishes you should look for in a bar cart. If you have elements such as wood, stone, or glass in your home then you could select a design direction that matches or contrasts. Look carefully at the shapes on offer and consider if they tie in with your interior style. Also consider materials - walnut wood suits a Mid-Century look, light oak is earthy and Scandinavian, while chrome creates a more modern vibe. While it’s good to keep your existing interior style in mind when shopping for a bar cart, it’s also an opportunity to get creative and choose a statement piece you love. Vintage or art deco styles featuring metal and glass are eye-catching and add character, and work well in modern spaces if there are unifying factors like clean lines. Research online for ideas and visit your local vintage furniture store before deciding.

TIP Check if the bar cart can be easily moved if you’re keen to use it in multiple spaces.

Choose glassware

The glassware for your bar cart will complement the design choices you have already made so far. My barcart is very modern, so I’ve gone for stylish glass, cut crystal and marble to match. Invest in glassware that is suited for the drink being served; essentials include short and tall tumblers, martini glasses and decanters (tall champagne glasses can be at risk of being knocked around). Crystal or clear glassware is great for achieving a minimalist or modern style as it has simple profiles and creates a sense of spaciousness. There are also clear glassware options that include a slight colour gradient or texture, and if you’re going for a vintage or eclectic look I recommend going for a handblown glassware collection. You can select one colour scheme or mix complementary colours together - seek out local artists that create unique glassware that plays with colour and patterns.

TIP To avoid clutter, store only the glassware you require, keeping
spares in hidden storage spaces.

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martini glass, tumbler

The essentials

You don’t need to fill every inch of the cart with clutter - just focus on the essentials. You’ll need a good set of cocktail tools (lime squeezer, muddler, strainer, and mixing tin are key), and also include a bottle opener, drink stirrer and an ice bucket. A tray helps to keep smaller items stored in a clean and organised manner. Choose profiles and materials for these objects that continue the style of your cart. Now it’s time for the fun and essential part - choosing the alcohol. Again, editing is key. Rather than fitting in as many unsightly and half-used bottles as you can, select some of your favourite quality spirits to make a collection of the the classics (it helps if the bottles are beautiful too). If you tend to have a crowd with varied choices a safe option is to have both a clear and a dark spirit (a nice bottle of wine always goes down a treat too). Present these in a designated section of your cart. If you’re like me and crave a consistent look decant your liquids into glass decanters.

Added extras

Add some unique finishing touches to make your bar cart extra special. The higher shelf can be utilised to personalise your style even more by adding accessories to increase texture, colour and pattern. A beautiful set of coasters, metal straws and cloth cocktail napkins are both interesting and useful. Fit in a small plant or tailored bouquet if you can - the addition of scent adds to the user experience.

When going through the process of selecting and styling your bar cart, remember to have fun and don’t be afraid to let your personal style shine through!