Basement Wet Bar and Kitchenette Planning for St. Louis County Homes

A wet bar or kitchenette turns a finished basement into a place to host. It also adds plumbing, electrical work and cabinetry to the project, so it should be planned with the layout and not added at the end.

Wet bar or kitchenette: what is the difference?

A wet bar has a sink, cabinets, a counter and usually a beverage refrigerator. A kitchenette adds more, such as a full-size refrigerator, a dishwasher and a microwave. The more appliances you add, the more circuits, plumbing and ventilation the space needs. Rules on a second full kitchen in a single-family home vary, so check with your municipality before planning a range or cooktop.

What does a wet bar need behind the walls?

• Hot and cold water supply lines.

• A drain with a vent, routed to the main drain line. Depending on the location, that can mean cutting the slab or adding a pump.

• Dedicated electrical circuits for the refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave.

• GFCI-protected outlets near the sink.

• Blocking in the wall framing for upper cabinets and shelves.

• Wiring for under-cabinet lights and pendants.

Where should the bar go?

The least expensive spot is close to existing plumbing: back to back with a basement bathroom, or directly below the kitchen. Shared drain and supply lines keep the plumbing run short. The bar also works best beside the seating or TV area and out of the main walkway. Check for ductwork soffits before planning upper cabinets.

What finishes hold up in a basement bar?

Choose materials that tolerate spills and humidity: quartz or another non-porous counter, tile or luxury vinyl plank flooring in front of the bar, and cabinets built for kitchen use.

Does a basement wet bar need a permit?

New plumbing and electrical circuits normally require permits and inspections, and the requirements depend on the municipality that governs your address. See our St. Louis County basement permit guide for how the process works.

How much does a wet bar add to the cost?

The main cost drivers are the distance to existing plumbing, the length and grade of the cabinetry, the counter material and the number of appliances. Our St. Louis basement finishing cost guide covers how a bar fits into the full project budget.

Planning a basement with a wet bar

A bar is easiest and least expensive when it is part of the original plan. STL Basement Pros builds complete basement projects for St. Louis County homeowners, starting at $25,000. Book a free in-home basement estimate or call or text 314-691-2444. See also complete basement finishing and basement build-outs.