INTERIOR INSPIRATION
BY KATE KINGSTON
Kate Kingston , Managing Director of Kingston Shaw , an award winning interior design company with offices on the Wirral , London and Dubai , shares with us the latest trends for creating the perfect home .
BAR NOTHING
One of the things we love to design at Kington Shaw is a bar , whether it is in a residential property or a hotel , nothing stirs our spirits quite like the thought process that goes in to designing the ultimate socialising space . Truly no other space quite brings people together for a good time more than a bar .
GAMES ROOM
But what makes a good bar and how do you go about designing one into your life ?
Firstly choose a professional to space plan and design it , these are not easy spaces to organise and need an experienced hand ! Then you need to consider the following elements : Wet or dry , Fixed or free standing , Budget , Seating , Lighting and Flooring .
Once the above has been considered and confirmed then you can get to thinking about the look of the bar and the atmosphere it will create . The style of your property will dictate the type of style you will want your bar in . From contemporary to western there is a style of bar to suit all tastes . We have compiled a few of our favourite bars below to inspire you .
CONTEMPORARY This is a clever use of concrete and wood , using the wood planks on the ceiling gives an intimate feeling whilst the muted colours and the use of stainless steel retains the contemporary feel . Three types of lighting : pendant , spot and recessed allows the space to be flexible from a full on party to a quiet after dinner drink for two .
By zoning the ceiling you are immediately drawn to the bar which has been simply designed to included an kitchen island , with fridge underneath , simple shelving for glassware and a console table complete this simple but effective bar .
HIDDEN BAR Oh the hidden bar , is one of my personal favourites , we have hidden bars in all types of rooms including the bathroom ! Here the designer has opted to put a wet bar behind cupboard doors which is an effective use of space when you do not want the bar to dominate the room . Mirrored back wall gives the illusion of space and looks like you have way more Cristal then you actually have !
OUTDOOR BAR
Creating an outdoor bar does not have to be expensive , choosing a weathered freestanding bar and stools could be just the trick !
TRADITIONAL I could not actually bring myself to show you a proper traditional bar , just not my thing , but here is a take on the traditional home bar . The transition of using dark wood is here but they have cleverly used a plank on the walls and herringbone on the floor . The use of brass is kept to the light fittings and skin on the bar and ok they have used red velvet on the chairs which could not be more traditional , but overall this works because of the beautiful cabinetry and finish .
THE TROLLY BAR
If you do not have the space or the budget do not forget the drinks trolly !
Mine is a double if you are asking !
Cheers !
wirrallife . com 49