To set up the perfect DIY coffee bar, you need enough counter space for your coffee maker, grinder, some room to work, and a good spot near a power outlet.
I found an old cabinet in a thrift store, which I used as the base of my coffee bar. Feel free to pick any sturdy piece of furniture you have, though. A flat surface and stability are some of the main requirements. The setup time varies – expect a weekend for basic assembly or up to three weeks if you’re restoring furniture like I did.
Tools and Materials
For the Cabinet Base
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Masking tape (Optional)
- Cleaning supplies
- Screwdriver set
- Power drill
- Wall anchors and screws
- Sandpaper
- 2×4 lumber (Optional)
- Wood glue (Optional)
- Wood filler (Optional)
- Paint or stain (Optional)
- Rubber feet (Optional)
- New Hardware (Optional)
Optional Storage Solutions
- Rail system for mugs
- Pegboard
- Magnetic strip
- Under-cabinet baskets
- Drawer dividers
- Glass canisters with airtight lids
Coffee-making Necessities
- Coffee maker or espresso machine
- Grinder
- Electric kettle
- Storage containers
- Mugs and accessories
Step-By-Step Guide
Step 1: Find Your Coffee Bar Spot
Space planning matters when setting up your coffee bar – you don’t want to end up with your coffee maker crammed in a tight spot or cords dangling everywhere.
Look for an unused kitchen corner, a spare kitchen countertop, or that weird empty wall in your dining room. Maybe squeeze it into a hallway nook, repurpose an old bookshelf, or even set up a cozy nook in your home office.
The important part is finding a spot that’s:
- Close to a water source (around 10 feet max)
- Easily accessible in your morning zombie state
- Good lighting
- Near electrical outlets
Step 2: Size Up Your Home Coffee Bar Corner
Before you start shopping or repurposing your old furniture, ensure your eyes haven’t deceived you – what looks like the perfect spot might not fit that large cabinet you have in mind after all.
So, use your measuring tape and note the area’s width, depth, and height available.
Standard dimensions to keep in mind:
- At least 24 inches depth for standard countertop space
- Minimum 36 inches width for a basic setup (coffee machine, grinder, or even a kettle)
- 18 to 20 inches clearance between the counter and upper cabinets
- Extra 12 inches on either side for workflow
My tip: Grab some masking tape and mark your ideal dimensions on the floor. Live with it for a day or two. Walk around it. Sometimes, what looks perfect on paper feels awkward in real life. Remember to account for the opening of cabinet doors (if necessary).
Step 3: Choose Your Coffee Bar Base
This is the backbone of your coffee station. I found this old cabinet with a few dents and scratches, but it’s solid wood. It has drawers for spoons and shelves for my mugs. I picked it up at a local thrift store, but you can also find great finds in yard sales or online marketplaces.
However, if you already have a piece of furniture at home, go for it – it saves money and adds personality.
My Tips: You’ll need something sturdy enough to handle the weight of your coffee equipment and the daily brewing without wobbling whenever you tamp your espresso. Also, avoid using a piece affected by mold or pests.
Here’s a list of options that might work as a base for your coffee bar:
- Old kitchen islands
- A small bookshelf
- Sideboards (perfect for storage underneath)
- Bar carts (great if you want to move it around)
- Wall shelves with a small table below
- Console tables
- Unused desks
Step 4: Cabinet Base Preparation
Before putting a fresh coat on your coffee bar base, it’s best to guarantee a clean and smooth surface.
Here’s what to do:
- Remove all hardware and doors
- Clean thoroughly with TSP (trisodium phosphate) or a degreaser – such as white vinegar and water solution
- Allow proper drying time
- Strip the piece completely using a chemical stripper (Only if you want to bring out its natural finish)
- Sand surfaces (80-grit, then 120-grit)
- Fill any unnecessary hardware holes or damage with wood filler
- Allow the filler to dry (Follow manufacturer instructions)
- Sand again (220-grit) for a smooth finish
Step 5: Cabinet Base Structural Modifications
Sometimes, the piece of furniture you choose might need a little fixing up before it’s fit for purpose.
For instance, my old cabinet needed some work before it could handle my espresso machine (it weighs about 22 pounds.) So, I added some 2x4s (lumber support) underneath the top surface, running them between the sides for extra support. The key was using both wood glue and 2½-inch screws to keep everything solid.
As for the cords, I drilled a 2-inch hole in the back panel using a hole saw to slide them through.
Other helpful modifications to consider:
- Add cross-bracing between legs to prevent wobbling
- Install L-brackets in corners for extra stability
- Install additional shelving for storage
- Add a backsplash
- Add rubber feet to prevent sliding and protect floors
- Add adjustable feet to level the cabinet on uneven floors
My Tip: If you find a piece with great bones but a damaged top, consider having a stone remnant cut to size or check our guide on How to Update Kitchen Countertops Without Replacing Them.
Step 6: Cabinet Base Surface Treatment
Once all the cleaning, repairs, and changes have been done, the next step will be to give your coffee bar a new look. To begin, grab a paintbrush and the color of your choice.
I went with chalk paint in white – mainly because it sticks well to old furniture and doesn’t need much prep work. Plus, it hides those small imperfections pretty well.
Here’s what to do:
- First, clean the surface with a tack cloth to remove any dust
- Apply painter’s tape to protect any areas not being painted
- Apply a stain-blocking primer on the entire cabinet exterior
- Apply chalk paint (2 thin coats), waiting 1 to 2 hours between coats
- Let the final 1paint coat dry for 24 hours
- Apply water-based polyurethane (3 thin coats) with a foam brush, waiting 2 to 4 hours between coats
- Allow about 7 days minimum for full cure before placing your coffee maker
My Tip: For a natural wood finish, use an oil-based stain followed by three coats of oil-based polyurethane, allowing proper drying time between coats.
Step 7: Install New Hardware
In the final touch, I installed new handles and knobs to give it a modern feel. I chose brushed nickel for a sleek appearance. But you can choose any color or style that matches your room decor.
My Tip: Opt for hardware that matches your existing hole pattern – it makes installation much easier. If you select a different style, you may need to fill old holes and drill new ones.
Here’s what to do:
- Measure between old holes with a ruler. Write it down so you don’t forget.
- Make a guide by cutting cardboard or buying a cabinet hardware jig (it’s like a ruler with pre-set hole spacing.) It helps you mark where to drill.
- Use your guide to mark spots with a pencil.
- Use a level to make sure everything’s straight before drilling;
- Drill small holes first. Use a drill bit that’s a bit smaller than your screws.
- Try putting the handle on loosely first. If it fits right, then screw it on tight.
Step 8: Place Your Coffee Bar Base
When your base is all dry and good to go, move it to the spot you’ve chosen in your house. Make sure there’s a gap of around 4 inches between the back of your coffee station and the wall – that’ll keep air circulating nicely and leave room for cords.
Step 9: Add Storage Solutions
Organization is key for a well-functioning coffee station. In my case, I decided on a simple rail system since shelves would have made the kitchen feel too crowded.
First, I used my stud finder to locate the wall studs. However, they were not well-placed for my design, so I used wall anchors. I marked my spots, double-checked with a level, and mounted the rail.
Other smart storage ideas I’ve seen (and might steal):
- Pegboard on the wall for ultimate flexibility – hang anything from spoons to small shelves;
- Mount a magnetic strip for holding metal coffee scoops
- Use drawer dividers for organizing different types of teas and coffee
- Add under-cabinet baskets for filters and extra supplies
Step 10: Install Proper Lighting (Optional)
Many people forget about lighting, but it truly transforms the ambiance and functionality of your coffee bar.
Harsh overhead lights can be too much at times. Think about adding softer alternatives like battery-powered LED lights under shelves or cabinets to create a perfect glow, and they’re also easy to install. In the absence of upper shelves or cabinets, try fairy lights or LED strips with warm tones to create a cozy vibe.
Step 11: Arrange Your Coffee Essentials
Once you’ve sorted your storage, focus on setting up your all-important coffee gear. This step is all about flow – arranging everything for an easy and efficient brew:
- Coffee machine: place it where you can access it freely
- Grinder: position this next to the coffee machine
- Electric kettle: this goes at the end to avoid steam issues
- Accessories and add-ons: neatly arrange these within reach for a quick grab
Remember, every setup is unique, depending on individual preferences and equipment. So allow yourself some wiggle room to adjust as needed.
Brew Memories in Your Own Coffee Corner
A home coffee bar is a great way to save money and time. Beyond savings and coffee, it’s about having a spot that’s all yours, where you have control over every detail. Plus, you’ll never have to wait in long coffee shop lines again.
Forget about perfection on the first try; mine certainly wasn’t flawless when I started. Each tweak to my coffee spot led me to improvements, and yours will, too, when you begin.
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Main Photo Credit: ricka_kinamoto | Adobe Stock
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