5 Elegant Bars for Celebrations at Home

Malibu, California | Shen Schulz, Sotheby’s International Realty – Malibu Brokerage

A home is meant for hosting, and whether curating an intimate party or planning a larger affair, having your own bar is a luxury that elevates the art of entertaining. And with bars as elegant as the ones found in these superb five residences, why go out when you could stay in and celebrate by sipping from the comfort of home? 

Poolside Cabana Bar, Southampton, New York

Harald Grant & Bruce Grant, Sotheby’s International Realty – Southampton Brokerage

No corner of this 12-bedroom, 10-acre Southampton masterpiece has been overlooked, and that extends to the stunning, glass-enclad poolside cabana complete with a bar for easy outdoor entertaining. Retreat from the main house for a refreshing beverage—perhaps after a friendly match on the grass tennis or paddle courts found on the secluded grounds. With an outdoor fireplace for cool evenings and plenty of space for lounging around the pool on hot days, it’s a versatile spot for celebrating. 

Chic Bohemian Adobe, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Sabrina Majello, Italy Sotheby’s International Realty

Enjoy the best of Spanish architecture with Mediterranean Sea views in Italy at this restored, eight-bedroom private residence with water access. Leisure and outdoor living is encouraged at Villa Chandon, as an enormous terrace offers fresh air, marine views, and opportunities for al fresco dining. Naturally, most time will be spent soaking up the fresh coastal air, but on cooler evenings, the chic bohemian interior beckons. Pull up a seat at the bar and sip chilled liqueur while appreciating the exquisite detail found throughout the house, such as natural rock walls and tiles hand-painted by Coco Chanel.

Retro Glam Lounge, Cannes, France

Côte d’Azur Sotheby’s International Realty

The sweeping Mediterranean views encompassing this nine-bedroom, 12 full bathroom Venetian-inspired residence in the French Riviera are superb, but they’re equally rivalled by the home’s extravagant interior. There are the intricate mouldings, frescoes, and grand columns that showcase classic Venetian design, plus an indoor spa and swimming pool, cinema, and wine cellar. But the real show-stopping space? It’s undoubtedly the glamorous lounge and bar with ample retro flair. More nightclub than home bar, this remarkable space is primed for celebrating—and dancing—in style all night long. 

Mountainview Chalet, Chattanooga, Tennessee

Sandy Poe & RJ Bindner, Alliance Sotheby’s International Realty

Peace, quiet, and serenity abound at this timeless, six-bedroom Chattanooga estate situated on over 26 acres. With over 670 feet of Tennessee River frontage and a mountain view backdrop, the house itself complements its rugged landscape with natural finishes like repurposed wood beams, hickory flooring, and crafted stonework, which carries through to the spacious covered porch. Playing host is a breeze in this unique space, with an outdoor kitchen, television, fireplace, and a martini bar—complete with a blender sink and cooler drawer for whipping up expertly crafted cocktails while watching the sun set over the water.

Ville Marie Estate, Montreal, Canada 

Liza Kaufman & Alfee Kaufman, Sotheby’s International Realty Quebec

Set upon nearly two treed acres in the middle of downtown Montreal’s Golden Square Mile, this 67-room Renaissance-Revival palazzo is a rare find. The estate was first built for J.W. McConnell, and later used as a monastery before being converted back into a private residence. The estate takes cues from Italian architecture, with woodwork and finishing materials imported from Italian villas. Stroll outside among water features and lush gardens before retiring to the den-like bar area which boasts a variety of seating groups, including a velvety fireside lounge. With geothermal heating, central air, a six-car garage, and a robust history which includes a visit from Queen Elizabeth, this property is a host’s—and storyteller’s—paradise. 

While an at-home bar is convenient for honing cocktail-crafting skills or for pouring a personal nightcap, having a designated space for gathering with guests at home—and hosting celebrations for any occasion—is a luxury. As evident in these five extraordinary estates, a bar that’s integrated creatively and seamlessly into the design may just have the hottest seat in the house.

An at-home bar calls for expertise in hosting intimate events. Try these six savvy tips for elevating small gatherings.