For avid wine collectors there comes a point when one’s collection calls for more than your average wine rack. In such cases, graduating to a full wine cellar provides enough storage — at the right temperature — as well as a fun place for entertaining friends. From storing small quantities to thousands of bottles, there’s a space that’s right for every wine lover. Wine cellars may have full walk-in coolers, or smaller units with wine refrigerators and racks. Having a tasting area is also helpful, with an arrangement of wine glasses, carafes, aerators, corkscrews and other wine accessories at the ready for an impromptu sip. Wood is a traditional favorite material for wine cellar decor, as are murals, photos and mementos from wine country.



When considering wine cellar designs, ask yourself how much wine will you want to store, if you want to entertain in your wine cellar, and how much time you plan to spend there. Do you want it to feel like an extension of the rest of your home’s interior, or act as a mini getaway? Your contractor or designer will want to know what style you like, the size of your wine cellar space, and any furniture and decor you will want in your personal wine cellar. Come up with a budget and make sure you are aware of all costs in building your wine cellar up front.



Of course, storing wine at the right temperature is a key function of a wine cellar. Kept in a room that’s too warm, and your wine may age faster, oxidize and lose character and flavor. If your wine cellar does not naturally maintain a consistent temperature, you may want to invest in temperature control methods. Your architect or wine cellar design specialist can help you create the ideal conditions for your home wine collection.

Find wine cellar design ideas here.