Transform Your Window Into A Stylish Bar With This Easy Shelf Hack

When you look at a window in the areas of your home where you entertain the most, do you feel inspired to add a bar to that spot? If the space is just sitting there empty — or better yet, if it already has a counter in front of the window — then that's the perfect place for a bar. An area where you can serve your favorite libations, whether that's alcohol, coffee, juice, or another drink you love.

Lucky for you, it's an easy project — simply install one or two shelves in a strategic spot in this area. Additionally, you can add bar stools if the space allows for them or simply keep the area as a serving station where your guests can mix their own beverages. Basically, you're limited only to the dimensions of the area. Nonetheless, this shelf hack has the potential to take a space that's a bit "blah" and transform it into an eye-catching, functionally convenient bar.

If you already have a countertop under your window, you can add shelving above it. This will give you easy access to glasses and other necessary items without blocking the view. The heavier items — like bottles, a blender, or an espresso machine (if you're creating a coffee bar) — can go on the counter with coordinating accessories.

If the window is situated within a knitch that has walls on either side, you can opt for tray-style shelving that can be anchored with hardware. This allows the walls to create a visually appealing frame for the bar area. Should you ever require more storage, you can incorporate some matching floating shelves on both sides for holding ingredients in decorative containers.

Another idea involves installing a floating shelf across the window that has a rack for stemmed glasses underneath it. Stemless wine glasses or tumblers can go on top of the shelf. This same shelf hack works well even if there were no walls located close enough to the window for anchoring the plank. By installing a rod just above the window frame and using sturdy hooks and cable, you can add a hanging shelf or two. Either way, you'll have a bar area that has adequate storage and a unique, modern look.

If you have a sizable room with a picture window or a floor-to-ceiling window, you can mount a finished wooden board or a countertop that has faux stone laminate — or some other material of your choice. The length of the bar depends on the size of your window, and the two ends can be mounted on brackets to the walls that flank the window. If you need extra support, try adding a short, decorative wood post on each of the front ends of your new bar. 

For a more industrial look that resembles an urban bistro, you might consider obtaining a long, narrow table with a metallic frame and matching metal bar stools. This option allows the "bartender" enough space to work from behind the bar. Otherwise, a smooth wooden plank with a dark cherry finish can add a warm tone to the space along with its functional tabletop. By adding a long shelf across the window, you can incorporate an aesthetically appealing storage unit for showing off your favorite glasses, flutes, and tumblers. And of course, your ice bucket, decanters, pitchers and decorative platters, and bowls with your favorite snacks can sit on the bar.