How to Make Your Own Coffee Bar

How to Make Your Own Coffee Bar
Coffee. We all need it. But those bulky brewers take up so much counter space! Not to mention all the accessories: cups, coffee, sugar, creamer, munchables... and don't get me started on tea, coffee's weaker-yet-just-as-necessary cousin. So, how do you get that junk off your counter and still have a cute, delicious place to store it all? A coffee bar, of course! They are all the rage these days, and why not? If you're not into coffee, try a tea station, snack station or cocoa bar! It's all good!
Here's a peek at my coffee station and some ideas for building one of your own.

My coffee station was born out of necessity. Our kitchen is teensy weensy and counter space is like prime seaside real estate. It doesn't come cheap. There was no way our coffee pot was going to fit on the counter with things like a microwave and dish drainer fighting for space. The solution was to make a coffee bar.

Start With Furniture That Fits Your Space
First, you'll need a space for your coffee bar. Some place with an outlet and a nearby water source. Mine is in an odd little nook just off our kitchen, probably meant as a small dining area. I already had the table (a Craigslist find). And I even had the bonus drop-leaf table from a thrift store. Your needs may be different. Either way, any piece of used furniture will probably do the trick. Think antique dressers, vanities, desks. Start with a substantial piece of furniture and build your bar around it!

Next? Accessorize!
What kinds of things would make your coffee bar work better? I use a wooden crate as a kind of shelf. Inside is a space for coffee storage, including a penny candy jar. Above is a three-tiered tray for holding k-kups,  jars for tea with cute little chalk labels, and Hubby's favorite sweet sesame snacks. But you could just as easily add a plate rack or cup rack depending on your needs. Beneath the coffee maker is a tray to catch spills.

Beneath, an old crate and apple basket complete the look.

I also have a wood cubby shelf for holding coffee cups and other decorative knick-knacks. I got mine at Hobby Lobby. You can also find a similar one on Amazon here. A baby snowy owl, small ampersand and owl mug cozy peek out from their cubbies. A lantern and boxwood wreath add a decorative touch.  You could also add a chalkboard or sign. Get creative.

What are your favorite accessories for a coffee, tea or cocoa bar?