For avid wine collectors, there comes a point when a collection calls for more than your average wine rack. In such cases, graduating to a full home wine cellar provides an abundance of storage as well as an interesting way to entertain friends. Whether you're storing a dozen bottles, or a hundred, wine cellars range from small fridges to walk-in coolers, so consider the following tips before diving head first into any new wine cellar design. If you're interested in your own cellar, start by analyzing your space and determining what will fit. If you're a wine and beer fan, you might want to take the wine room ideas a step further and create a full home bar that includes seating or a personal tasting area, while passionate vino lovers will want to focus exclusively on a cellar or cooler. Do some research on the best conditions for storing wine, and be sure your space mimics those conditions. Finally, turn your space into an entertaining haven by adding appropriately themed wine room decor and essential accessories, like glasses and corkscrews.

What should I include in my wine cellar?

When planning your wine cellar design, think about the size of your wine collection — or the size you hope it becomes. A serious collector probably should invest in a walk-in cooler with large wall-mounted racks or several tall wine fridges to ensure that space isn't an issue. For the amateur or beginner, a home bar with a wine fridge and small rack should be sufficient. Lots of great wine cellar ideas creatively mimic wineries by including a tasting area. Add a dining table, bistro table or bar nearby, and be sure to keep handy accessories, like wine glasses and corkscrews, on hand.

Do wine cellars need to be temperature controlled?

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

How should I decorate my wine room?

Although mediterranean wine cellars are common, changing up the decor is an easy way to create your own space. Ornate wood and stone are traditional wine cellar ideas, while metal and glass finishes are more trendy. You can immerse yourself in Italian culture with mosaic tile murals, barrel ceilings and archways, or you can go modern with sleek lines and minimal decorative displays. Regardless of your style, be sure all your materials, furniture and decorative accessories support each other; mismatched wine cellar designs can lead to decor confusion and an incoherent, incomplete room.