Couple Living With In-Laws Build Backyard Sports Bar to Hide In

Craig and Claudia are fans of their new living space, but the fact that they share it with Craig’s parents, his brother and two pretty large dogs had them feeling a little blue. The duo wanted their own outdoor space to escape to, relax in and enjoy together, and what better way to do that than by creating a sports bar? Enter designer Sarah Keenleyside and contractor Brian McCourt. Together they created a gorgeous space that anyone would cheer for; no man caves here.

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Keg Stands

Sarah and Brian created a vintage look by upcycling old beer kegs as stools in this bar setup. As for the bar area itself? Of course boasts a functioning tap, along with a hose hook-up that makes this a seasonal spot for congregating and hanging out in.

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Custom Crates

In order to help achieve that modern but vintage look (with lots of fun metallic details), Brian and Sarah got creative with some brand new crates. Who knew that taking a blow torch to new wood could create such a cool, worn-in effect?

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Simple Details

What bar is complete without a bar fridge and a little bit of prep space for cutting those garnishes? Add in a few small details like this basket for carrying extra items and loads of storage options via the cabinets and this is the perfect outdoor space.

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Decorative Barrels

When it comes to a sporty outdoor oasis, barrels are the perfect decorative touch. This one happens to be a table that doubles as a serving caddy of sorts and draws the eye with its extra detail.

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A Cozy Space

The faux brick wall and mounted television are the perfect additions to this covered lounge, which Sarah made feel extra cozy with some throws. No cliche sports jerseys or framed photos here!

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An Artful Touch

When Brian and Sarah realized the plumber couldn’t deliver on budget they came up with an alternative plan for the water hookup. As a result they saved $3,000, which they then put towards this gorgeous, customized mural from a local artist. Go team, go!

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Bringing the Indoors Out

There are plenty of finishing touches to make this space feel like an extension of a living room, like the framed art or this small desk setup, which is actually perfect for filling out all of those playoff picks.

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Bench Seating

Rather than bulk up the space Sarah and Brian kept the look streamlined with these plush benches. They also happen to give the space slightly more seating and add some modern appeal.

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Dining Table

We love the outdoor dining space that the duo created. The oversized table feels like the type of spot everyone would congregate at to watch the game, but it’s removed enough from the bar itself that it can also be transformed into a little romantic oasis as needed.

10 / 10

Pretty Planters

Claudia has been exercising her green thumb lately, so Sarah wanted to give her plenty of space to continue her gardening. Enter these oversized planters. They silver finish fits in with the details from the bar, and the overall look helps to create an outdoor “walkway” of sorts that feels cozy and charming. There’s no need to head to the bar for the next playoffs, with a backyard like this we’d never leave!