SHAKEN & STIRRED

A BAR THAT'S PRIMED AND READY FOR COCKTAIL HOUR IS A BRILLIANT ADDITION TO KITCHENS THAT HOST

- LINDA CLAYTON

ADD AN ISLAND

A dedicated drinks area complete with a cocktail bar-inspired island is the last word in luxury when entertaining. An island is a great focal point for guests to gather around, especially if it is curved in shape; it gives the host a clear area to show off their cocktail-making skills and serve drinks, while keeping the back bar area free for prep and accessories,' enthuses Mike Fetherston, design director, Hetherington Newman. 'An island can also provide useful space for drinks fridges and an ice maker to sit under the bar top, out of sight but close to hand.

BE CREATIVE

Forget filling fireplace alcoves with bookshelves, a well-appointed bar with dynamic design details is far more exciting. And, with a little imagination, you can achieve great things in a small space. You can have lots of fun with a home bar and create something really playful, sumptuous and showstopping,' agrees Lucy Barlow, creative director, Barlow & Barlow. 'For this period home, we created a pair of very groovy bespoke bar units, which we had hand-painted by Malcolm Scoular in his signature tortoiseshell, then finished with brass countertops and antiqued mirror backing - they look incredible and really bring the party vibes into the house.

SHUT IT AWAY