ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST 2021
Coffee lovers know all too well that conquering their day without a java fix is no easy task. But forget heading to a café for that perfect cup and enjoy the ritual of making one at home with a coffee bar in your kitchen. “A dedicated station for coffee celebrates the experience of drinking it, keeps you organized, and gives you instant access to a caffeine boost whenever you need it,” says Brittany Marom, an interior designer in New York and self-proclaimed coffee addict. Below, Marom and Bethesda-based interior designer Erica Burns share their tips on how to create the ideal coffee moment in your kitchen.
Find the right spot
Burns says that there are countless ways to carve out an area in your kitchen to set up your coffee maker where you can brew your favorite cappuccino, espresso, or Americano. Options include a space on your counter, behind doors that pocket into the cabinet, and even inside a walk-in pantry, if you have one. “A pantry is a great space for a coffee bar because it’s out of the way from the everyday traffic of the kitchen,” Burns says.
Pick a space with overhead storage or shelving
Having all of your coffee accoutrements in one place creates less chaos and makes for a nice routine, according to Marom. “That’s exactly why I tell my clients to make sure that their coffee maker is directly below a cabinet where they can store their coffee mugs,” she says. “If you have open shelving, this can also be a nice way to line up and show off those mugs.”
Get the best coffee maker for you
When selecting a coffee maker, Burns says that there are a few factors to consider. For example, some nice features include the ability to program the start time or an insulated carafe if you want to have coffee throughout the day. Also, if you are really dedicated to the art of making coffee, a high-end cappuccino maker is a real treat—it’s like having a barista at home with the bells and whistles of foam and froth. But Burns says that for her very busy clients or those who work from home and need a quick cup of joe, a single-serve coffee maker is a surefire bet.
Invest in great mugs
No coffee bar is complete without beautiful mugs from which you can savor every sip. They’re a fun opportunity to bring in color and style. Opt for minimalist mugs for modern spaces, organic glazed pottery ones for casual spaces, and a whimsical style for any setting. Or get creative by designing your own. Burns, for example, says that she had a client who made custom mugs for her coffee station with a design that included a family logo. Be sure to also buy a range of sizes, from large mugs for lattes to espresso cups.
Spring for a grinder
Marom is a big fan of fresh coffee beans and highly recommends buying a grinder to do the job yourself. “Already ground coffee never tastes as fresh as coffee made with beans that you grind frequently at home,” she says. “A grinder can also look really cool next to your coffee maker.” Her go-to is a model by OXO.
Buy canisters for coffee beans
Organize and store your beans in airtight canisters which keep them fresh and tasty by preventing oxygen from leaking in. The right canisters can also add aesthetic appeal, whether you prefer ones that are clear or opaque.
Make your sugar bowl a design statement
What’s a coffee station without a bowl to hold sugar or your favorite sweetener? Skip the standard uninspired sugar bowl, and find an eye-catching option that doubles as a decorative piece. This bronze lunar-inspired pick is the perfect example.
Keep straws handy for cold coffee drinks
If you love your coffee cold in a drink such as a cold brew or an iced mocha, Marom says that reusable straws are a must. “I like metal ones because they keep the coffee extra cold as it goes up the straw, plus they are easy to clean,” she says. Store your straws at your station in a tall, slender container.
Use a tray to hold all your accessories
Your various coffee accessories can look cluttered sitting on the counter, but a tray to hold them all together creates a cohesive look. Yes, it’s practical, but find a tray with a playful motif or pattern to give it some flair.
Consider lighting
Under-cabinet lighting at your coffee station is always nice because turning on the overhead lights first thing in the morning can be too much of an eyesore. “Having some sort of mood light that is also functional such as under-cabinet [options] is a great idea,” Marom says. If you have wall space for a sconce, she says that a petite fixture adds a touch of sweetness and coziness.
Don’t forget a garbage can
Be sure to find space at your coffee station for a small garbage pail hidden under the counter or behind a cabinet door. “While this is not exactly beautiful, it is not something to be forgotten, as you want to be able to easily dispose of coffee grounds and keep your area clean,” Burns says.
