A DIY Basement Bar for Less

When Marshall and her husband purchased their first home, a foreclosure property, her DIY skill set was light. However, as a superfan of home makeover shows and a willing learner, she leaped right in. What began as a simple tile project has evolved into a full-time career as a DIY enthusiast.

For her basement bar project, Marshall designed and built the entire bar herself, saving $5,000 compared to a professional bid for the same job. She used a mix of white flat-pack upper cabinets from IKEA and unfinished wood lower cabinets from a home center, customizing the cabinets with primer, enamel paint, and careful finishing. She recommends letting the paint cure for 72 hours and using a sponge roller for the smoothest coverage.

Thoughtful Finishes

To finish off the bar, Marshall initially tried a clever hack: painting plywood to mimic marble. Although it initially appeared impressive, the finish ultimately failed to hold up over time. True to her DIY philosophy, she adapted, swapping it out for a quartz countertop with a similar veining effect.

She also added a beverage cooler (comparable units can be found for around $200) to complete the project. The basement bar now serves as a stylish hub for entertaining. Stock cabinets are a versatile—and transformative—way to upgrade your space. Simply add your own creativity and can-do spirit.