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Pewaukee Home Bar Remodel
Project Details

Project Year: 2015
Location: Pewaukee
Updates Included: Remodel
Rooms: Lower level

Features: 

  • Stainless steel underbar setup with dual-zone refrigeration
  • Custom cabinetry with concealed mechanical access
  • Dry-stacked Navajo stone feature wall
  • Coffered ceiling to define space and hide obstructions
  • Volga Blue granite countertops for color and contrast

A Lower Level Designed for Gathering and Good Times

The homeowners had a vision: a one-of-a-kind bar that felt both bold and refined, but the starting point was a blank slate: an unfinished lower level with little more than exposed framing and a few early ideas.

They wanted something custom and unexpected – a place where a license plate collection and nostalgic glassware could be proudly displayed while bottles and supplies remained neatly stored and secure. They imagined a full bar experience with the scale and sophistication of a high-end lounge.

To bring their vision to life, we used detailed 3D renderings to show how style, function, and flow would come together well before construction began.

A Home Bar Designed for Entertaining with Ease

The bar was designed around how the homeowners host. Function and efficiency were essential, especially when entertaining larger groups. The layout allows glassware to move smoothly from washing to rinsing, drying, and storage, creating a workflow similar to a professional setting.

Perlick stainless steel appliances and underbar components support durability, sanitation, and ease of use. Low-maintenance materials and easy-to-clean surfaces make the space practical for regular gatherings. Whether they’re hosting a small group or a full room, the bar adapts effortlessly to the occasion.

Modern home bar with stainless steel appliances, dark countertops, wooden floor, blue pendant lights, and cozy living area featuring a fireplace and artwork.

Craftsmanship That Blends Rustic Warmth with Precision

Craftsmanship brings clarity and cohesion to the space. Custom cabinetry and removable wood panels were built to integrate seamlessly with appliances while allowing future mechanical access. Despite the complexity behind the walls, the layout remains clean, balanced, and calm.

Natural materials soften the sleekness of stainless steel throughout the bar. A dry-stacked stone wall introduces warmth and texture, while Volga Blue granite adds subtle movement and depth. A coffered ceiling defines the bar area and conceals structural elements, creating an intimate feel within the lower level.

Smart Solutions That Shaped the Space

Behind the scenes, thoughtful solutions made all the difference. Plumbing and HVAC were rerouted to preserve ceiling height and keep the visual lines clean. Mechanical elements were integrated into soffits and cabinetry, allowing discreet access without disrupting the design.

Appliances and cabinetry were custom-fit to the inch, supporting smooth transitions and efficient use of space. The layered lighting plan combines recessed, pendant, and under-cabinet fixtures to balance task and ambient lighting. Each choice helps the bar feel complete, personal, and ready to serve the homeowners for years to come.

From Start to Finish

Before

  • The lower level was unfinished and primarily used for storage, with exposed framing, mechanical systems, and no defined purpose.
  • The space lacked organization, lighting, and structure, making it unsuitable for entertaining or hosting guests.
  • The basement offered no separation or sound control from the main living areas above.
A basement with exposed beams, shelves filled with boxes, a swing, and wooden furniture under warm lighting. Equipment and storage are visible.
Before

After

  • The finished lower level was transformed into a fully realized home bar designed for entertaining, with a clear layout and professional functionality.
  • Custom cabinetry provides display space for personal collections while keeping bottles and supplies securely stored and organized.
  • Perlick stainless steel underbar appliances support efficient serving, cleanup, and storage, creating a true bar experience at home.
  • Layered lighting and refined finishes complete a setting that feels intentional, inviting, and built for gathering.
Modern home bar with dark granite countertop, wooden cabinets, and blue pendant lights. Decor includes license plates, a vase, and shelves with bottles.
After

Before

  • The unfinished lower level featured exposed vertical plumbing drains, vents, and ductwork that interrupted circulation and limited how the space could be used.
  • Mechanical systems were highly visible, with heat runs protruding along the ceiling and walls, creating visual clutter and physical obstacles.
  • The open area lacked definition, making it difficult to imagine a cohesive layout for entertaining or hosting guests.
A dimly lit basement with exposed beams, shelves filled with boxes, a child's swing, chairs, and scattered storage items throughout the space.
Before

After

  • Mechanical systems were fully integrated into the design, with plumbing and HVAC concealed within walls and soffits to create a clean, uninterrupted layout.
  • A Perlick stainless steel underbar system anchors the space, providing a professional grade setup designed for efficient drink preparation and cleanup.
  • Custom drink rails, drains, speed rails, drain boards, and an underbar ice chest support a smooth serving workflow while protecting surrounding surfaces.
  • Warm wood flooring and layered lighting balance the sleekness of the stainless steel, creating a bar that feels both functional and inviting.
Bar area with fridge, bottles, license plates, and decorative items. A person playing golf is on the TV. Warm, modern design.
After

Before

  • The lower level lacked a defined bar layout, with no dedicated serving, prep, or cleanup zones to support entertaining.
  • Plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems were exposed and not integrated into a finished design, limiting functionality and visual appeal.

After

  • The completed home bar blends natural materials with commercial-grade performance, creating a warm and inviting space that functions at a professional level.
  • Perlick stainless steel underbar appliances provide durable, sanitary surfaces while supporting an efficient workflow for serving, rinsing, and glassware storage.
  • Rich wood cabinetry and flooring add warmth and contrast to the stainless steel components, balancing rustic character with modern precision.
Modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, stone backsplash, wooden floors, and a decorative sign. Contains a beer tap and glass-front refrigerator.
After

Before

  • There was no clear way to display personal collections or memorabilia, limiting the opportunity to create a space that reflected the homeowners’ personality and style.

After

  • Integrated Perlick refrigeration and underbar components provide professional-grade temperature control, storage, and durability for frequent entertaining.
  • A built-in drink rail and drainage system elevates the bar’s functionality, allowing for efficient drink preparation and easy cleanup when serving larger groups.
  • The 24” Signature Series beer dispenser with a three-handle faucet tower delivers consistent temperature from keg to glass, creating a true pub-quality pouring experience at home.
Modern home bar with stainless steel appliances, dark countertops, wooden floor, blue pendant lights, and cozy living area featuring a fireplace and artwork.
After

Before

  • The space did not offer the materials, lighting, or workflow needed to operate as a full home bar, making hosting and drink service inefficient.

After

  • Glass-front refrigeration and a built-in kegerator cabinet allow beverages to be displayed and served at consistent, optimal temperatures.
  • The dry-stacked stone backsplash adds warmth and texture, creating contrast against the stainless steel surfaces and grounding the space visually.
  • Undercabinet lighting highlights the stonework and bar surface at night, enhancing both ambiance and functionality.
A home bar setup with a beverage cooler, stone backsplash, and a TV showing golf. Decorative "LAUGH" sign and bottles displayed.
After
Discover how thoughtful design can turn overlooked space into a place meant to be shared.
Outcome & Client Impact

The finished bar delivers a space that feels personal, confident, and purpose built. Entertaining now happens at home with a setting that supports both social gatherings and business conversations. What was once an unfinished basement is now a distinctive entertainment destination that reflects the homeowners’ style and elevates how they host.

A home bar with dark wood cabinets, stainless steel fridge, bottles, illuminated star, and laugh sign. Decor includes vintage license plates.
Modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, stone backsplash, and wooden flooring. Shelves display decor items, and countertops hold kitchen essentials.
Modern home bar with stainless steel appliances, wooden flooring, blue pendant lights, and a cozy seating area with a fireplace in the background.
Home bar with drink fridges, assorted bottles, and a TV showing golf. Rustic stone backsplash and "LAUGH" decor enhance the setting.

Dream Big. We’ll Handle the Rest.

S.J. Janis Company stands ready to bring your vision to life with unparalleled expertise and a commitment to excellence. Contact us today to discover how we can turn your dream home into your real home.
Modern home bar with dark granite countertop, wooden cabinets, and blue pendant lights. Decor includes license plates, a vase, and shelves with bottles.

Dream Big. We’ll Handle the Rest.