One of the most common requests from new home purchasers is how to include a wine cellar in their plans. Many are even opting to install wine cellars instead of wet bars.  A wine cellar can range from a high-tech temperature-controlled room with a sophisticated computer logged inventory system, to a simple wall of wooden bottle racks.  If a wine cellar is not included in your floor plan, the first step is to locate some potential space with your builder.

A cellar doesn't require a lot of space, just as long as it meets a few basic requirements.  First, wine should be stored in a dark, quiet, humid and cool place.  Most wine experts suggest that the ideal temperature for wine storage is around 10C. Select a windowless spot without extreme temperature fluctuations and out of direct sunlight, since sunlight can damage wine.  Some unique locations include under a staircase, in a closet or try converting a pantry or a portion of the attached garage into a wine cellar.

A wine cellar is generally built with thicker walls. Two-by-six construction allows for better insulation, allowing the cellar to remain at a consistent temperature.  You'll also need a refrigeration unit, which can be concealed within the walls of the home's framework.  Standard fibreglass or rigid foam insulation is normally used in cellar construction; and in some cases, blown-in insulation.

For serious wine collectors, it is important to insulate all walls and ceilings.

This maintains the cellar temperature as consistently as possible, especially during the summer and winter.  An exterior grade door should be installed as the cellar door. Weather stripping is attached to all four sides of the doorjamb to help control air temperature. If you prefer the look of a glass door, the heating and cooling contractor will accommodate the less efficient door with a larger cooling unit.

Lighting a wine cellar is an integral part of the decor and atmosphere. Consider placing your cellar lights on dimmer switches and a timer to prevent lights being accidentally left on for long periods. Interior lights create excess heat, which needs to be dissipated with refrigeration; but interior lighting will not hurt wine.

The best choices in flooring are stone or tile, since the damp, cool location can lead to carpet mould growth.

You also need to consider the specifics, including how many bottles of wine you need your cellar to hold and whether the space is utilitarian, or if you prefer something more aesthetically pleasing.  Most folks prefer the rough and rustic winery look, although every cellar has the potential to be unique.

The sophisticated connoisseur or gadget lover will want to include a wine software system to update his or her stock. The electrician should be aware of this required wiring prior to the electrical rough in.  We enjoy the rich and wonderful atmosphere that a wine cellar provides the restaurant industry.  That sense of sophistication can now come home.

Cheryll Gillespie is a nationally syndicated Design and Décor columnist.