Tips For Converting Your Outdoor Shed Into The Perfect Backyard Bar

Following the global pandemic in 2020, many people sought out ways to make their homes feel more relaxing, adaptable, and interactive — especially in their outdoor spaces. Previously neglected patios and gardens saw a burst of new projects and DIY innovations, and the trend is still going strong. In 2024, about 34% of Americans planned to make some DIY renovations to their outdoor space, according to a survey by CivicScience. If you've recently acquired or cleaned out an old shed, you might be wondering how you can make it into a more useful space. Many people neglect their shed's full potential or use it for storing clutter, but if you love hosting parties at your home or relaxing outdoors, an empty shed has the makings for a perfect backyard bar! With the basic structure already in place, all you'll need to do is cut a concession stand window, add essential shelves and furniture, and run electricity through the building if desired. 

Creating a bar shed is one of the DIYs that'll turn your backyard into an entertainment paradise, especially if you go the extra mile to make it a comfortable and versatile space. There's no right or wrong way to create a backyard shed bar that suits your needs, but once you have the basics in place, the fun really begins with decorations and other details. Here's how you can transform a simple shed — old or new — into a glamorous bar for all your backyard get-togethers.  

The first big decision you'll need to make is whether your bar will be a concession-style window or a walk-in lounge. A concession window is a brilliant idea for bar sheds that face a pool or other outdoor seating area, allowing you to serve guests through the window and keep everything organized behind the bar. For this design, cut a window that folds downward into a bar table on hinges and is steadied by two chains on either side. However, if the shed is large enough, you can make the entire structure into a walk-in bar and lounge, perfect for staying cool on summer days or sheltering from a chilly autumn breeze. To do this, you'll need to install a bar counter inside with a few barstools or relaxing chairs. 

Shelves and storage are the other key details you'll need in your bar, and they can be easy enough to DIY with wooden planks. You'll need shelves inside your shed to display bottles, syrups, ice buckets, and bartending equipment, as well as a dedicated space for an ice chest if you won't be running electricity to your shed. A wall-mounted liquor dispenser like the Four-Bottle Liquor Dispenser from Amazon for $40 can make it super fun and easy to mix up fresh drinks. Lastly, give the outside of your bar shed a fresh coat of paint, either something fun and inspiring or the same color as you main home exterior. 

Whether you build a walk-up concession bar or a cozy lounge, following some tips for perfectly styling your home bar can help it feel fun and attractive — and admittedly less like a shed. If you have a little more budget to spend on your DIY project, finish out the inside of your space with shiplap walls and wood or laminate flooring. Run electricity to your shed and install a window unit or fan to keep things cool at the peak of summer. By establishing electrical access in your bar shed, you can keep a mini fridge or wine fridge inside, eliminating the need to restock your ice chest for every party; you can simply lock up the shed when not in use. 

Furthermore, a barstool and bottle does not a backyard bar make. Decorations are very important for setting the vibe, so consider the overall style and mood you'd like your home bar to have. String lights and rustic décor are perfect for a country feel, while color-changing LEDs and neon signs set a more moody, nightclub vibe. A Bluetooth speaker, dart board, and TV are other great additions that will keep guests entertained. For concession stand bars, add misting fans to stay cool on hot summer nights and window boxes for fresh cocktail herbs, a Pinterest-approved way to add gorgeous curb appeal to the shed in your yard.