Design Happens

At the start of the New Year, my husband I hosted a New Year’s Eve celebration. We served the food buffet style, laying out desserts and small tastes, but we were missing one thing for our event — a bar cart. While I have a bar on my deck for outdoor parties, in my small apartment there just isn’t room for a full bar set-up. A cute little cart that could serve as a multifunctional piece would be fantastic. So, of course, being a design-minded person I took to the internet, diving in to discover what kind of bar carts are out there, and which ones would be the perfect fit for a small space. Here are some glamorous carts in a range of cool finishes that I have added to my wish list.

via Style Redux

I love this simple black cart and how it becomes an accessory in this black and white living room. If you place it next to a side char, it could even be used as a side table or additional furniture when space is tight.

Design Manifest :: Photographer Courtney Apple

For a little bit of Hollywood glam, this bar cart featured in the home of interior designer Naomi Stein caught my eye. It has a fantastic 1930′s look. The three tiers are also great. This cart can work overtime, holding everything from cocktails to dishes and glassware for upcoming parties.

BO BEDRE :: Photographer Per Kjaerbye

Not every bar has to be the center of attention. This beautiful mirrored cabinet is able to do double-duty. On the inside it has plenty of space to hold wines and mixers. And when closed, it can transform into a functional sideboard. I would definitely dress it up as a credenza, and place additional lighting and candles for when guests arrive.

I am a fan of bar carts in bright hues, like the Tipple Trolley from Society Social in classic Hermes-orange. It’s a great fit for a small living room like mine. This cart can be stocked with the bare necessities — glassware, an ice bucket, olives and swizzle sticks to keep the party going.

Matchbook Magazine :: Photographer Rachel McGinn

Now that I’ve found some pretty bar carts, I need to spend some time thinking about bar accessories. I thought I would share this bar I created for a Matchbook Magazine rooftop deck shoot. I stocked it to the gills with everything I needed for an outdoor party, from a signature drink, to lemons, limes and glassware. You can click play for some of my tips on creating the perfect bar cart for entertaining.