How to Set Up the Perfect At-Home Coffee Bar
August 16, 2021
Lifestyle
Whether you pour yourself a mug first thing in the morning, sip a cup after a big meal, or turn to it for that mid-afternoon boost, millions of people here in Chicagoland and across the country are passionate about their coffee.
According to 2020 data collected by the National Coffee Association (NCA), 7 in 10 Americans drink coffee every week, and 62 percent drink coffee every day — with the average American coffee drinker consuming more than three cups per day. Coffee tastes are all over the place, though NCA research suggests that Americans favor "gourmet" coffee — with people split when it comes whether they like it iced or hot, espresso-based or classic, store-bought or brewed at home.
Are you a fan of all things coffee? Want to enjoy the convenience of your favorite coffee shop in the comforts of your very own home? Setting up an at-home coffee station is a great way to make sure that getting your daily java feels a whole lot easier — and cozier, to boot!
Ready to step up your coffee game? Here are four ideas you can use to set up a convenient and stylish home coffee bar in no time:
Find the Perfect Location
Just like coffee shops often compete for the perfect community location to lure in busy commuters, it's important to think about where you place the coffee bar in your home for maximum convenience. Generally speaking, experts recommend finding a prime location in the kitchen. While you want a spot that's somewhat out of the way, you should still be able to easily access the trash and sink, so that you can easily fill up water tanks and get rid of grounds, sugar packets, and other waste quickly and easily. You'll also want to make sure your coffee nook offers easy access to one or more outlets, plus plenty of space for displaying your favorite mugs and accessories. A wet bar or second island may be a great option, if you have one; if not, a corner of your countertop or a portable bar cart can also be excellent spaces for your set-up.Stock Up on Supplies
Having a well-stocked coffee station is essential. After all, you want this area to be a convenient space where you can easily grab everything you need, without having to cross back and forth across your entire kitchen. With that in mind, think about what you'll need for your coffee bar to feel complete. In addition to your handy french press or trusted coffee machine, this area is also where you're going to want to keep everything else you need for a morning joe, including beans and grounds; your favorite mugs or cups; spoons and stirrers; filters; sugar, syrups, honey, and other sweeteners; coasters; and maybe even coffee alternatives, such as tea bags. You might also even stock this area with some goodies to accompany your fresh brew, such as pastries, cookies, fresh fruit, or other quick finger foods.It's All About Storage, Storage, Storage
With so much stuff in one area, it's important to invest in some clever and space-saving storage solutions. Fortunately, the only limits on adding functional storage is your creativity! Take a look at all of the elements of your coffee bar, and then come up with a plan for how you can fit things together. If you have shelving above and below your coffee nook, think about what you want out each day, and what can be stashed away out of view. For instance, let's say you have a mug collection. You could invest in a mug holder that stands proudly on the countertop. Or, if you're running low on counter space, you could think vertically, and store your mugs on a wall-mounted display. Similarly, think about using handy storage containers for utensils, napkins, coasters, and other accessories. A small divider can easily store coffee stirrers, tea bags, and individual creamers without taking up excess space. Or, invest in some functional flourishes that can help consolidate and cut down on waste, such as refillable sugar dispensers, glass jars, or baskets.Follow Your Personal Style to Add the Perfect Finishing Touches
Finally, remember that your home coffee bar should fit your personal style. It's your space after all; make the choices and add the finishing touches that speak to you! This might mean playing with colors and patterns. For instance, you could paint the shelving and walls of your coffee nook a different color, to help this section stand out from the rest of your kitchen, or use color strategically to add dimension and character to your built-ins. You could also experiment with different decor themes and styles. Do you want your coffee station to feel rustic and European? Sleek and modern? Cozy and homey? Picking a theme will help guide the accent pieces you bring in — from wall-mounted chalkboards and menu signs, to fresh flowers or plants, to artfully arranged stacks of your favorite old cookbooks.When Home Means More, You Need a Team With More to Offer
Is your home working for you? For many of us, the way we think about our homes has changed — and that might mean you're ready to make a move to find one that better fits where you are now. Home is about so much more than just four walls. Buying or selling a home is a big deal, and with everything we experienced in 2020, our homes have never been more important. That's why your local Baird & Warner agent is with you at every step of the way, with the tools and support you need to make your real estate journey easier — including in-house connections with local experts in mortgage and title. So whether you're looking for your starter home or you're ready to move on from one, your Baird & Warner agent can help you through every part of the buying and selling process.Tags:
