Whether I’m setting up a staged display suite or a personalized space for clients, the key to successful décor comes down to the details.
While the hard finishes and major furnishings are obviously the statement pieces that set the tone, the smaller layered pieces are what create the real atmosphere of a room. For those who love to entertain, one of the fundamental elements not to be overlooked is the bar.
With the recent growth in Vancouver’s cocktail and distillery scene, we are seeing more seized opportunities for bringing the party home, as well – more people are opting to open their doors to friends and host an evening rather than venture out.
Designing a place to create and serve drinks is now at the décor forefront for any hostess with the mostest, and our local retail scene isn’t leaving us wanting more.
So, this week, I’ve scouted a stellar collection of must-haves for the modern bar cart, and narrowed my top five picks for a designer’s dream entertaining set up. From vintage to fresh and forward, there are some fab finds to be had; the trick is to avoid being too matchy-matchy – choose a cool mix of styles within your bar stock to keep an unpretentious yet seasoned vibe.
1. Waterford crystal whiskey tumblers glassware; available at The Cross, 1182 Homer.
The true experience of any drink comes down to the vessel it’s served it. No matter how stellar of a bartender you may be, serving up top shelf in stemware worthy of well stock is never chic. High-class glassware not only amps up the glam for your bar cart as a visual element to your decor, but also makes a statement to your guests about your perspective on what you’re about to serve.
2. Molla Space animal shot glasses; available at Walrus Home, 3408 Cambie, $36.
These double-duty creatures are guaranteed to start a convo at your bar; when not in use, they look like cool little architectural décor bits, yet flip over to become your shot glasses. Post-shot, they all stand inverted on their heads to avoid spillage. I’m totally loving the ceramic and pewter finish for the wolf, bear, rhino and bull.
3. Stylized cast iron bottle openers; available at Nineteen Ten Home, 4366 Main, $12-37.
With all bar components on display, even the bottle openers need to boast style. Forget the traditional top poppers, have a little fun with your tools and opt for a characterized piece. The Bavarian Beast openers from Roost are made of cast iron, and are modelled after Art Deco-era knife rests; whatever your inner animal is, there’s an option for you within this collection.
4. Cahoots simple syrup collection; available at Nineteen Ten Home, 4366 Main, $16.
For the modern mixmaster, designing a drink isn’t so different than a decorator designing a space: stylish components that don’t compromise quality are fundamental. These Cahoots syrups not only amp up the swag appeal of any bar with their chic black and white packaging, but also are a crowd pleaser with their simplified ingredients. No fuss, all the fab. Locally made, there are three flavours available: lemon, hibiscus and classic.
5. Vintage decanters; available at Space Lab, 230 East Pender, $175 each.
Bring a little old-world glamour to your bar cart with these stunning 19th century crystal decanters; a rare find to have a perfect pair, these vessels were likely originally designed to hold wine, but would be a beautiful (temporary) home for your bourbon or whiskey. I love blending vintage finds with modern elements to create a bar with personality.
