What It Is

• A dry bar is a piece of furniture designed to hold barware, bottles and other accessories such as cocktail napkins or appetizer plates. It is usually about counter-height, to facilitate the preparation of drinks. Some dry bars may be built into a room, with more elaborate ones including shelves, wine racks or even a mini-fridge. There are many ways to customize a home bar.

What It Isn't

• The difference between a dry bar and a wet bar is simple--wet bars have a sink. The absence of a sink in the dry bar makes it less expensive and eliminates any concerns about finding the right spot where you can hook it up. A simple dry bar can be placed anywhere.

A Versatile Piece

• As a home furnishing, a dry bar can be very useful when not in use as a bar. Many dining room sets have matching pieces that could be used as a buffet when serving large groups or for storing china. In a foyer, the same piece of furniture can serve as valuable counter space for picture frames or decorative objects.

When Entertaining

• The dry bar provides guests with an easily accessible spot to prepare drinks, without having to search your kitchen for tools or ingredients. This can be a great asset for hosts who do not want guests rooting through their drawers and cabinets.

Accessories

• When stocking your dry bar, you may want to consider including the following tools: wine key wine aerator bottle, opener ice bucket, ice tongs, coasters, napkins, toothpicks, glass charms, cocktail umbrellas or decorations and ash trays.