Bar for Morning and Evening – Darien, IL

Empty nest time = remodel the nest time. Samantha Schoell’s clients in Darien added this dry bar area while opening up their kitchen and getting rid of a formal dining room that was never used. They also gave the nearby family room a makeover. 

The idea was to create a beverage-centric space. Located right by the newly extended kitchen and no longer separated by a wall, this space acts as if it is part of the kitchen but is also a stand-alone place for enjoying morning coffee and evening drinks.

To work, the space needed more than a bar cart or a converted buffet against the wall. Samantha designed a gorgeous beverage-specific station with counterspace and storage that is functional and classy. A coffee maker and a few ready-to-pour bottles can be out in the open while stemware, special bottles and mixology elements can be out of the way.

In addition to being a great energy-up and wind-down space on either side of a typical day, the area comes in handy as a spacious drink-prep place while entertaining.