Swap Out Traditional Bar Carts For A Cabinet That Will Elevate Your Serving Station

If happy hour cocktails or mocktails are a staple in your home, then having a bar cart is a huge plus. These mobile carts let you display your best glassware and keep your favorite spirits and syrups easily accessible. Although there are plenty of unique bar carts that offer perfect, stylish storage, these little carts are not without their flaws. Whether you have a cat who likes to knock things over or you've grown tired of the traditional bar cart look, it may be time to ditch your bar cart for an even cuter alternative – an old china cabinet.

Opting for a china cabinet instead of a classic wheeled cart adds an element of elegance to your bar area. China cabinets often boast stunning details such as carved wood, glass or mirrored shelves, and pediments. Some china cabinets also have built-in cabinet lights that can further elevate your bar setup. The best part? These cabinets are easy to find at thrift stores and other second-hand shopping outlets, so you should have no trouble sourcing one for your bar cart upgrade.

Once you find an old cabinet that fits your space and needs, you will need to give it a good clean. Begin by dusting it off with a microfiber cloth, then use another damp cloth to gently wipe over the wood. You can use a glass cleaner and a paper towel on the glass sections. One big advantage of using a cabinet instead of a wheeled bar cart is that the cabinet does a better job of keeping dust off the items inside. And while a china cabinet doesn't offer the same mobility benefits, it does help make your bar area look less cluttered and more intentional.

If you're wondering how to decorate a bar cart that's been converted to an old cabinet, the general rules are still the same — you will want to display glassware, spirits, syrups, and common bar tools. To keep things interesting, add in a plant, a stack of books, fancy coasters, decorative napkins, or some under-shelf lighting strips. You can also add a few seasonal decor items that can be swapped out during different holidays throughout the year. Additionally, if cocktails and mocktails aren't your style, you can transform a thrifted china cabinet into your personal coffee bar instead.