Raising the Bar

This little moody corner of our home is giving full-on Mad Men vibes — but without any of the debauchery. It’s become the perfect spot to corral everything in one place, from favorite bottles to cocktail napkins, which means we’ll finally stop buying my husband yet another decanter.

Of course, in true irony, he’s now given me a whole new excuse to “need” more pretty drinkware and wine glasses. Because if we’re going to raise the bar (pun very much intended), we might as well do it in style.

What makes this corner even more special is the art hanging just above the cabinet — The Thankful Poor by Henry Ossawa Tanner. Tanner was the first African American painter to gain international acclaim, and his work often reflects deep spirituality and dignity. The Thankful Poor (1894) portrays a grandfather and grandson bowing their heads in prayer before a modest meal. The quiet reverence in this painting feels grounding, a beautiful reminder of gratitude and presence — the perfect counterbalance to a space built for celebration.

To finish it off, we added a light above the cabinet that casts a soft, warm glow over both the bar and the artwork. It elevates the whole corner, highlighting the moody tones and giving it that polished, intentional feel — the kind of detail that makes the space feel like more than just storage.

The idea of changing out the seasonal decor in this spot makes me giddy! I am already dreaming up what Christmas will look like here with cinnamon sticks and candy canes all a glow!