Why Coffee Bars Are the New Wet Bars: A Savvy Interiors Spin on Modern Living
In our full home remodels, one of the most consistent client requests lately has been to reimagine outdated wet bars into beautiful, functional coffee bars—or even hybrid beverage stations that work morning to night. At Savvy Interiors, we don’t just swap out cabinetry—we reimagine the space entirely, bringing a design-driven perspective as a licensed general contractor.
From Martini to Matcha: Function Meets Lifestyle
The classic wet bar was a staple in many 1970s and 1980s homes, often tucked into a corner with mirrored backsplashes and glass shelving. But in today’s lifestyle, many of our clients are reaching for espresso machines instead of gin bottles. Morning routines have shifted, and that once-unused wet bar is now prime real estate for a curated, functional coffee nook.
Take this Solana Beach remodel, for example. The original home leaned hard into its 1970s roots (yes, wallpaper included), and instead of stripping it down, we honored the vibe with bold floral patterns and warm walnut cabinetry. The result? A fully customized coffee bar that feels both nostalgic and thoroughly modern.
Why It Works in a Full Home Remodel
In a whole home renovation, every square foot counts. As a design-build firm with a general contractor’s license, Savvy Interiors helps clients look at the big picture. A designated beverage station can help decompress the kitchen triangle, remove counter clutter, and bring a moment of joy to your daily grind (pun intended).
These bars often become a visual feature—especially when we bring in custom millwork, handmade backsplash tile, or, as seen here, a cheeky animal figurine for some 1970s flair. We’re seeing a shift toward natural, organic materials—think walnut, cane panels, textural tile—paired with bold, personality-rich elements like this vintage-inspired wallpaper.
What We’re Using: Materials that Matter
Whether it's a stand-alone coffee bar or a wet/dry combo, we’re specifying:
Integrated appliances like Miele coffee systems or undercounter wine fridges
Sustainably sourced wood cabinetry with artisanal pulls and custom stains
Durable quartzite countertops for easy maintenance
Statement wallpaper or hand-glazed tile to give the space a unique voice
Open shelving for styling glassware, pottery, or heirlooms
And yes—we still leave room for the wine if it’s a hybrid setup.
Making It Savvy: Our Process
Because Savvy Interiors handles both the design and the build, our clients benefit from seamless project execution, a cohesive vision, and smart construction strategies. From the moment you approve a layout to the final install of the espresso machine, our in-house team and vetted trades bring design to life with precision and warmth.
Want your coffee bar to feel like a curated destination, not a retrofit? That’s what we do.
Interested in a full home remodel that blends thoughtful design with natural materials and timeless style?
Let’s turn that forgotten wet bar into your new favorite ritual.
If you're reimagining your home and love the blend of style and function, we’ve got plenty more inspiration to share. From custom coffee bars to full remodels, explore our design ideas and project details on Pinterest.
Let’s bring your vision to life, one beautiful detail at a time. Reach out to elevate how you live!