Design Notes
Over the last few years, wine cellars have grown in popularity as more homeowners want to enjoy their glass of wine in the comfort of their home without running to the store to pick up their favorite vintage. There is also an increasing number of wine enthusiasts who want a special place to showcase their collection. Typically, wine needs to be stored in a cool, dark, and moist area, which often was the cellar or basement, not a very inviting or pretty place. However, with technology, advanced designers have been able to create wine cellars that not only look amazing but also move them out of the basement into more agreeable areas of the home, such as kitchens and even beverage centers. Recently, a new trend has emerged that the ideal storage area for wine is under the stairs. This is a great area, as it is typically an unused area in the center of the home. If you are looking for a place to put your wine cellar, look no further than your staircase.
Why A Wine Cellar Under The Stairs?
There are several reasons why you should consider this as an option for your wine cellar location:
- Adds value to your property
- Creates visual interest
- Saves money
- Safety
For those who love wine but lack sufficient space or the right location, the solution may be right in front of you. The staircase is often near the kitchen or living room, making it an ideal spot to create a wine cellar. With ample hollow space underneath, it also makes it a more budget-friendly option than creating additional square footage or taking up space in another area of the home that is already in use. Choosing to place your wine collection in the center of the house means it is the perfect spot to showcase your delightful acquisitions to your family and friends. It also makes it easy to see what you have and what you might be running low on, and to have a glass ready whenever you need one. Homes with a wine cellar, especially one so elegantly highlighted, add a sense of class and affluence, thereby increasing their value to potential homebuyers. When you have a wine cellar in your home, your storage capability increases, allowing you to purchase your favorite wine by the case. This translates into excellent savings, as there is usually a discount when buying wine by the case. Adding a few decorative flairs, such as backlighting and built-ins, can turn your ordinary staircase into a work of art with your wine collection at the center of it all. There is one additional bonus to having the wine cellar under the stairs: safety. Since it’s on the main level, there is no need to go up or down when you want a glass of wine, minimizing the risk of falling down a set of stairs. The staircase is one of the most optimal choices for a wine cellar in the home, and our experienced design team can assist you in planning the perfect layout that maximizes storage while staying true to your style.
Design Tips For A Wine Cellar Under The Stairs
There are countless options and ideas for creating not just a functional space to store your wine collection perfectly, but one that reflects your style. Some wine cellar design choices include:
- Glass
- Lighting
- Wood
- Built-ins
- Decorative wine racks
- Wine wall
When you are in the design phase, take time to browse through photo galleries to gather ideas of what you like; Pinterest and Houzz are two great platforms with countless projects. It is also critical that you think through the function of a wine cellar, as there are specific needs that must be met, such as:
- Temperature
- Lighting
- Humidity
Wine needs to be stored at a consistent 55 degrees with a humidity level of 55 to 70 percent. There is also a caution regarding shaking that can come from appliances like the washer and dryer. Low light is the best option for storing wine. As you begin selecting design elements, keep these factors in mind. LED lights do not emit UV light, making them the best choice for illuminating your wine cellar and racks. It makes a great statement, especially when used as a backlight, without damaging the wine itself. Wood is a perfect complement to wine as it gives a vintage feel. You can use it as an accent wall or as storage for wine bottles. Built-ins are a great way to safely store your collection, as the bottles can be placed on their sides and stacked one on top of the other. It can even turn into its own art piece, making it visually pleasing. Some homeowners use glass as the wall material for their wine cellars, allowing everyone to see what is inside while protecting it from varying temperatures and humidity. It is also an elegant pairing option for wood and light, as each plays off the other beautifully. There are multiple ways to store your wine collection, from wall racks where they can be laid on their sides with the label facing out to built-ins that allow you to organize them by reds and whites, or however you prefer. Organization is critical in every home area, including your wine cellar, a space dedicated to housing your wonderful assortment of vintages.
Walker Woodworking
Walker Woodworking
Walker Woodworking