When you’re planning a remodel, there’s always that one design choice that feels more “lifestyle” than “must-have.” Something that makes your home not just functional but fun. For a lot of Colorado Springs homeowners, that choice is a bar.
But here’s the first fork in the road: do you want a wet bar or a dry bar?
Both can elevate your home. Both can change the way you entertain. And both come with their own sets of pros, cons, and considerations. The key is figuring out which one actually makes sense for your space, your lifestyle, and your budget.
Let’s break it down.
What Is a Wet Bar?
A wet bar is essentially a small kitchen dedicated to drinks and entertaining. It’s called “wet” because it has a sink—and usually plumbing connections for things like ice makers, dishwashers, or beverage fridges.
You’ll often find wet bars in:
- Finished basements
- Recreation rooms
- Large living rooms
- Outdoor patios or decks
Think of it as your own little hospitality hub. A place where you (and your guests) don’t have to trek back to the kitchen every time someone wants another round.
Features of a Wet Bar:
- Sink with running water
- Countertop workspace
- Built-in cabinets or shelving
- Mini-fridge or beverage cooler
- Sometimes: dishwasher, wine fridge, or ice maker
What Is a Dry Bar?
A dry bar looks similar at first glance—counter space, cabinets, maybe a wine rack—but it doesn’t have a sink or plumbing. That makes it simpler to install and often more affordable.
Dry bars can be:
- A built-in piece of cabinetry in a dining room or living room
- A stylish cabinet with countertop space for mixing and serving
- A custom wall unit with storage and display
Essentially, it’s a designated spot for storing and serving drinks (alcoholic or otherwise), without the “mini kitchen” functionality of a wet bar.
Wet Bar vs. Dry Bar: The Pros and Cons
Wet Bar Pros:
- Convenience: Running water makes cleanup and prep easier. No more running dishes back to the kitchen.
- Entertaining Powerhouse: Guests can hang out around the bar, refill their own drinks, and enjoy the experience.
- Adds Luxury Appeal: Wet bars can make a home feel more upscale and finished, especially in a basement remodel.
- Potential Value Boost: Buyers often see a wet bar as a premium feature.
Wet Bar Cons:
Cost: Plumbing lines, fixtures, and installation make wet bars more expensive.
Space Requirements: You need enough room for plumbing and storage.
Complex Installation: Especially in a basement or retrofitted space, getting water and drain lines in place can be tricky.
Dry Bar Pros:
- Budget-Friendly: No plumbing means lower installation costs.
- Flexible Placement: Can go almost anywhere—living room, dining area, even a hallway nook.
- Stylish Storage: A dry bar can double as a design statement with open shelving, wine racks, or display cabinets.
- Simpler Remodel: No permits for plumbing; often a faster project.
Dry Bar Cons:
Less Functional: Without a sink, you’ll still need to use the kitchen for cleanup.
Lower Perceived Value: Buyers may not see it as “premium” as a wet bar.
Limited Entertainment Capacity: Great for serving, less great for prep.
When a Wet Bar Makes Sense
Here are some scenarios where a wet bar really shines:
Basement Remodels
If you’re finishing your basement into a family hangout, game room, or home theater, a wet bar can transform it. Nobody wants to carry popcorn bowls, soda cans, or cocktail glasses up and down the stairs all night.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Colorado Springs is big on outdoor living. Adding a wet bar to a deck or patio means you can serve drinks and snacks outside without running in and out of the house.
Big Entertainers
If you host often—game days, dinner parties, holiday gatherings—a wet bar keeps the flow smooth and the host (you) less stressed.
When a Dry Bar Is Perfect
On the flip side, here’s when a dry bar is a better fit:
Small Spaces
If your home doesn’t have the square footage for plumbing or you’re remodeling a condo/townhouse, a dry bar gives you the style and storage without the infrastructure headaches.
Style-First Homeowners
Sometimes it’s not about function—it’s about the look. A dry bar with custom cabinetry, glass doors, and a wine rack can feel like art as much as storage.
Budget-Friendly Projects
If you want to add character to your home without breaking the bank, a dry bar is the way to go.
Design Tips for Wet Bars and Dry Bars
Whether you go wet or dry, a bar should feel intentional—not like an afterthought. Here’s how to nail the design:
- Match Your Home’s Style: Rustic wood for a mountain-lodge vibe, sleek quartz for modern minimalism, painted cabinets for transitional style.
- Think About Flow: Place your bar where guests naturally gather or where you’ll use it most.
- Storage Matters: Glassware, mixers, utensils—plan for where they’ll go.
- Lighting is Key: Undercabinet lighting or stylish pendants make the space feel high-end.
- Personalize It: Add open shelving for display, a backsplash for texture, or a chalkboard wall for fun.
Wet vs. Dry Bar in Colorado Springs Homes
Here’s the local take:
- Basements here are prime bar territory. A finished basement with a wet bar is practically a second living space.
- Outdoor living is huge. Adding a bar to your deck or patio extends how you enjoy our 300+ days of sunshine.
- Buyers love extras. In a competitive housing market, a bar—wet or dry—can set your listing apart.
Which Should You Choose?
Ask yourself:
- Do you entertain often?
- Is convenience worth the plumbing cost?
- Do you have the space for a sink and appliances?
- Is this upgrade for resale value, personal enjoyment, or both?
If you love hosting and have the budget, a wet bar is a no-brainer. If you’re tight on space, budget, or just want a stylish feature without the plumbing hassle, a dry bar might be your sweet spot.
Final Thoughts
At HOMEfix, we’ve built both. We’ve tucked dry bars into little dining room nooks that instantly made the house feel more polished. We’ve also installed full wet bars in basements that turned “extra space” into the favorite room in the house.
Because everything we do—from cabinets to plumbing to electrical—is handled in-house, we can look at your remodel holistically. We’ll help you weigh cost, design, and practicality so you’re not just getting a bar—you’re getting the right bar for your home and lifestyle.
Wet bars and dry bars both have their place. The right choice depends on your space, your budget, and how you actually live in your home. Either way, adding a bar is more than just an upgrade—it’s an investment in how you enjoy your home.
