A Must-Have for the Modern Home
Let’s talk about it, that great piece of furniture on wheels, complete with a handle, that proudly holds all your cocktail paraphernalia and prized libations. The apartment-friendly accessory that makes up for not having the space for a full bar, wet or dry, in your home’s designated party room.
Party room, now there’s something!
Not that I’m bitter. I love where I’m at. But I did go down the rabbit hole, gazing out over the city from my 19th-floor condo, imagining what a dedicated party room might look like. Nope, still happy. Especially with my bar cart, which sits coolly in a central spot in my open-concept living room, ready for action at a moment’s notice.
Call them what you want, but for us apartment dwellers, these mini bars on wheels just make sense. They’re stylish, sexy, and undeniably in vogue. And as urban living trends toward smaller spaces worldwide, the bar cart is only going to gain in popularity.
They’re old and new, bold and understated, classic and contemporary. There’s a bar cart for every design aesthetic, you just have to find the one that speaks to you.
Up for a brief history of the Bar Cart?
Sure you are, well, the bar cart’s origins trace back to the Victorian era of the late 1800s, where it began as a tea trolley. These wheeled carts were used to serve tea and snacks to guests in upper-class homes. With the end of Prohibition in 1933, these trolleys found a new purpose, transforming into cocktail carts as home entertaining became fashionable. The mid-20th century, particularly the 1950s and 1960s, marked the golden age of bar carts, symbolizing sophistication and the art of hospitality.
My Own Vintage Revival
I recently refurbished one I bought off an online marketplace, a brass, collapsible cart with two shelves. To elevate the look, I replaced the basic plastic wheels with brass globe wheels that spin in any direction. (Full disclosure: I didn’t replace them by choice, I lost the originals when they fell out of a torn garbage bag I was carrying it all in on the bus *insert upward eye roll*).
To complete the transformation, I had the vintage particle board shelves repainted in a bold teal blue, accented with the atomic star motif, giving it that extra mid-century modern charm. The result? A bar cart that looks like it cost a small fortune, when in reality, even with the refurb and new parts, it was a steal. And I love it.
Falling Down the Rabbit Hole, Again
So much so that I’ve gone down yet another rabbit hole, stumbling upon a site called Chairish, The Art of Vintage Living, a treasure trove of cocktail culture. They have everything: New Arrivals, Furniture, Art, Lighting, Decor, and even a dedicated Tabletop + Bar section. There’s more, but I’ll let you explore that for yourself. Be warned, though, this site knows the value of good pricing. I’ve already curated a list of my favourites, just in case, one day.
For more budget-friendly finds, my local haunt, Attic Treasures, always has a great selection at prices that won’t make your wallet cry.
Styling Tips for Your Bar Cart
1. Essentials First: Start with the basics, stock your cart with a selection of your favourite spirits, mixers, and glassware. An ice bucket and a cocktail shaker are also must-haves.
2. Add Personal Touches: Incorporate items that reflect your personality and interests. This could be vintage bar tools, a cherished decanter, or even a small piece of art.
3. Seasonal Decor: Update your bar cart to reflect the seasons or upcoming holidays. For instance, during the holidays, you might add festive elements like ornaments or a small wreath.
4. Greenery and Florals: A beautiful vase with fresh flowers or a small potted plant can bring life to your bar cart and make it more inviting.
5. Lighting: If your cart is placed in a dimly lit area, consider adding a small lamp, maybe vintage desk lamp? Or string lights to highlight your collection and create ambiance.
6. Functional Accessories: Items like coasters, cocktail napkins, and straws not only serve a purpose but can also add color and style to your setup.
Remember, your bar cart is an extension of your personal style. Have fun with it, and don’t be afraid to rearrange or update it as your tastes evolve.
Why You Need One
If you take your cocktails seriously (or just appreciate good design), a bar cart is a must. It’s the perfect way to display your vintage barware, specialty liquors, and all-time favourites. It keeps your mixing gear within reach, ready to wow guests as you shake, stir, and serve in the comfort of your home.
Keeping all that drinkware hidden away in a cupboard? That’s wasted space, space that could be used for more supplies (or at least, that’s my justification).
Cocktail culture isn’t just about the drinks; it’s about unwinding, enjoying the moment, and creating an experience, whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging in a well-earned end-of-day ritual.
So, if you’ve been thinking about getting a bar cart, consider this your sign. Add one to your world, you won’t regret it.
