Many Wine Enthusiasts Fantasize About a Chic Wine Cellar – Here’s How to Make It Reality

Many Wine Enthusiasts Fantasize About a Chic Wine Cellar – Here’s How to Make It Reality

Wine Walls

Wine refrigerators are ubiquitous in upscale kitchens, but one designer sought a more dramatic solution for a luxury condo. Robert Tretsch, an interior designer, envisioned a striking display wall of wine bottles floating in front of Carrara marble.

“Even though this is a large condo, a dedicated wine room would consume too much space,” Tretsch explains. “We created a floor-to-ceiling wine wall visible from the dining area, paired with panoramic views from the 54th floor.”

The custom-designed rack and cooling system holds 612 bottles, with LED-lit glass doors highlighting labels. Special bottles are positioned at eye level for easy viewing. Similarly, Marika Meyer incorporated sideways storage racks with LED lighting in a dining room.

“Clients cherish each bottle’s story, so combining aesthetics and functionality was key,” says Meyer.

Wine Rooms

For frequent entertainers with extra space, repurposing underused rooms can add flair. Heather Scott transformed a formal living room into a wine room adjacent to a dining area.

“The flow between spaces enhances entertaining,” Scott notes.

Even compact niches can become luxurious displays. Meyer converted a three-foot-wide office nook into a wine storage area.

“Small spaces are perfect for curated shelves and lighting,” she says.

Scott recommends adding modern touches like metallic accents or gallery lighting to bar niches for a chic vibe.

Hidden Wine Storage

For homes with children or limited space, concealed bars offer practicality. Meyer designed a lockable hallway bar behind a hidden door, while Tretsch suggests integrating disguised cabinetry in kitchens or pantries.

“Sliding panels or glass-door linen closets can reveal elegant wet bars when needed,” Tretsch says.

However, Meyer cautions about traffic flow:

“Butler’s pantries are great for storage, but position your serving area where guests can mingle freely.”

Creative Wine Storage for Smaller Homes

No extra room? Bar carts, repurposed furniture, and under-stair storage offer clever solutions. Meyer used a bar cart to dual-display glassware and kid-friendly supplies, while an antique secretary became a bar with hidden storage.

“Even a small console with floating shelves can showcase bottles elegantly,” Scott adds.

Tretsch highlights unconventional spaces:

“Glass cabinets along a curved staircase or climate-controlled units under stairs maximize unused areas.”

For long-term storage, consider compact, climate-controlled units designed to blend with décor.

Final tip: Whether renovating or furnishing a new home, creativity can transform unexpected nooks into a wine lover’s sanctuary.