Getting the seating right



Basement remodelers will give you a great foundation for an impressive downstairs lounge, but you will have to decide on the little extras- like seating. Bar stools can range from inexpensive do-it-yourself models to high end stools that cost a small fortune. Whatever you decide, make sure that you have enough seating for the maximum number of guests you expect to have in your basement, and that the seats are comfortable. If you have ever gone to a bar with uncomfortable stools, you will know how important this is to make your guests comfortable and happy.

Basement bars and decor

Your new hangout is a great place to get away with decor that you wouldn't or weren't allowed to display in other parts of the house. One popular theme is a tiki lounge complete with lays, tiki lanterns, and totem pole gods. Some like to decorate their bar with old beer signage and other collectibles. Or maybe you have a baseball card or bobble head collection that you have been dying to display-- basement bars are the perfect setting.

The big 6: liquor basics

In order to offer your guests a comprehensive range of drink choices, you will need to stock your liquor. To get started, purchase the main 6 liquors for most drinks: vodka, rum, gin, bourbon, scotch, and tequila. Having these on hand means that you have the base for a drink that most anyone will like. If you want to upgrade your stock, then bring in add-ons like schnapps, vermouth, and triple-sec. You can also keep some 6 packs of soda and tonic on hand as mixers that do not expire. Juices will have to be bought as you need them, unfortunately. Purchase a bar set for tools, and you are ready to shake it up!

Break in your bar

Another great way to get your bar stocked is to break it in with a new bar housewarming party. Have your friends come over for appetizers and good times and ask each to bring a bottle contribution to the new bar. This way, people will get to see the new lounge you have and it gets stocked as well! Then, have another party soon after that and make drinks with the bottles that people brought over the first time. If you come up with something delicious, be sure to give them a recipe before they leave.