Get tips on how to design a stunning wet bar with a sink, plus see the before and after of our wet bar makeover.
This site contains affiliate links. Please visit my disclaimer for more details.
When we moved into our house, I was excited to discover we had a wet bar in our living room. I had never had one before and loved the idea of having a dedicated spot for entertaining. What I didn’t love was how it looked.
The layout was great, but the finishes felt dated and didn’t match my style at all. Since we were already investing in other home upgrades, this space needed a thoughtful refresh rather than a full renovation.
BEFORE:
Before the Wet Bar Makeover
When we moved in, the wet bar felt disconnected from the rest of our home. We were already spending a lot of money elsewhere, so I didn’t want to pour a fortune into this space if I didn’t have to.
The cabinets were actually in good shape, so instead of replacing them for no real reason, I chose to paint them. We painted our kitchen cabinets Benjamin Moore Simply White, so I used the same color here and matched the hardware for consistency. Because the wet bar sits right off the kitchen, I treated it like an extension of that space. To see our kitchen redesign, check out A Stunning Coastal Kitchen Design.
If you’re working with a budget (as most of us are), this is where I recommend starting. Take a hard look at what you can keep and what actually needs to be replaced. Saving existing elements can make a big difference.
Another area I decided to save was the faucet and sink. Even though my cabinet hardware is gold and bronze, I really like the contrast of the satin nickel sink.
Bronze Cabinet Knobs and Handles
One thing that was non-negotiable for me was the countertop and backsplash. They were very dated and clashed with the rest of our home upgrades, so those had to go.
Planning the Wet Bar Redesign
DURING DEMO:
Before starting any renovation, I always put together a mood board to see everything together. This helps me visualize how materials, finishes, and colors will work as a whole before committing.
This step is especially helpful when you’re trying to balance budget decisions with design impact. Seeing everything laid out makes it easier to decide where to splurge and where to save.
Shop the Look: Bronze Knobs // Bronze Handles // Subway Tile // Faux Snake Plant // Woven Tray // Cocktail Shaker // Bar Tool Set
Before getting started, always built a mood board to see everything together.
Butcher Block Countertops for a Wet Bar
One design element I had wanted to try for years was butcher block countertops. I’ve always loved the warmth they bring to a space. I even considered them in our previous kitchen but ended up going in a different direction at the time.
For the wet bar, we chose a butcher block countertop stained with Minwax Pickled Oak in a semi-transparent finish. Our contractor applied three coats of polyurethane to help protect the surface from scratches.
Different woods pull color differently, and ours leaned warmer than I expected. In the end, I loved the warmth it added to the space.
Herringbone Backsplash for a Wet Bar
The second design element I finally used in my own home was a herringbone backsplash. I’ve loved this pattern for a long time, but I wanted to be sure it was something I could live with long term.
There’s nothing wrong with taking your time before committing to a design trend. Renovations take a lot of time, effort, and money, so being thoughtful really matters.
I chose a small white subway tile in a 3 x 1 inch size with Polyblend grout in Platinum, which is my go-to. If you’re considering a herringbone layout, make sure your installer is experienced. Our contractor actually had to redo the backsplash because I wasn’t happy with the original installation.
Decorating a Small Wet Bar with a Sink
Because our wet bar is on the smaller side, I focused on decorating with items that also serve a purpose.
We were lucky to have upper cabinets for storage, along with a built-in wine rack for red wine. We keep white wine in a fridge in the kitchen, which helps keep this area clutter-free.
I added a gold bar tool set and cocktail shaker, and used a large round wicker tray to corral bottles. Keeping everything contained helps the space feel intentional rather than busy.
Fill the rest of your tray with a small plant, candle, or cocktail recipe book.
I also keep a cutting board that my brother-in-law made for me tucked behind the sink. It’s perfect for cutting fruit for cocktails without risking damage to the butcher block countertop.
Final Thoughts on Designing a Wet Bar with a Sink
This wet bar makeover completely transformed the space without requiring a full renovation. By keeping what worked, investing in a few key upgrades, and making thoughtful design choices, the wet bar now feels cohesive with the rest of our home.
If you’re designing a wet bar with a sink, focus on function first, choose finishes you’ll love long term, and don’t feel pressured to replace everything just to make it feel new.
Wet Bar with Sink FAQs
A sink isn’t required, but it makes a wet bar far more functional. Having a sink allows for easy cleanup, cocktail prep, and rinsing glasses without running back and forth to the kitchen.
Durable materials like quartz, stone, or sealed butcher block work well for wet bars. If you choose butcher block, make sure it’s properly sealed to protect it from moisture and stains.
Yes, as long as it’s sealed correctly. Butcher block adds warmth and contrast to a wet bar and works well in smaller spaces when you want something less heavy than stone.
Tile backsplashes are ideal for wet bars because they’re easy to clean and protect the wall from splashes. Classic options like subway tile or herringbone patterns offer a timeless look.
Stick to functional decor like trays, bar tools, and storage pieces. Keeping items contained and purposeful helps a small wet bar feel styled but not overcrowded.
