Home Coffee Bar Aesthetic: Design Ideas for Stunning Spaces 2026

As an Amazon Associate CoffeeXplore.com earns from qualifying purchases.

Tired of a cluttered coffee routine? You deserve a beautiful space to start your day, but creating a dedicated coffee bar aesthetic home can feel overwhelming. You want that picture-perfect nook, but don’t know where to begin.

A home coffee bar aesthetic combines dedicated coffee preparation space with specific design elements to create a visually appealing and functional area that complements your home’s decor. This approach transforms your daily ritual into a personalized and inviting experience. It’s about making your coffee moment a highlight of your day.

Drawing from proven interior design principles and current trends, this guide provides actionable ideas. We’ll walk you through creating a stunning home coffee bar that fits your style and space. Discover how to turn a simple corner into your favorite spot in the house.

Contents show

Unlock Your Perfect Coffee Bar Aesthetic: Design Ideas for Stunning Spaces 2026

Achieving the perfect home coffee bar is about blending form and function to create a space that’s both beautiful and practical. It’s an opportunity to carve out a personalized corner that celebrates your love for coffee and enhances your home’s overall design. This section will dive into a variety of design ideas, offering inspiration and clear, step-by-step guidance. Whether you have ample room or just a small nook, you can craft a stylish and aesthetic coffee station that streamlines your morning routine and brings joy to your daily brew. We’ll explore different styles, from modern minimalist to cozy farmhouse, ensuring you find the perfect match for your taste and space.

9 Design Ideas for a Stunning Home Coffee Bar Aesthetic 2026

Ready to transform your coffee routine into a design statement? We’ve curated nine distinct design ideas to help you create a stunning coffee bar aesthetic home. Each concept comes with a detailed guide, including the supplies you’ll need and step-by-step instructions to bring your vision to life. These aren’t just inspirational photos; they are practical blueprints for creating everything from a sleek coffee bar in a modern kitchen to a cozy coffee bar home setup in a living room corner. Let’s explore how you can design a coffee bar that is uniquely you, no matter your style preference or space constraints.

1. Craft a Modern Minimalist Coffee Corner

Modern minimalist coffee corner with chrome espresso machine, ceramic mugs, and small plant on white quartz countertop in bright natural light

Pin this clean design to your ‘Modern Home’ board!

The modern minimalist coffee bar is all about “less is more.” This aesthetic focuses on clean lines, a neutral color palette, and a clutter-free environment. By choosing high-quality, functional pieces and implementing smart storage solutions, you can create a sophisticated and aesthetic coffee station that feels both serene and efficient. The key is to let the quality of your coffee machine and accessories shine without unnecessary ornamentation.

Supplies Needed

  • High-efficiency compact espresso machine or single-serve coffee maker
  • Set of sleek ceramic coffee mugs (matching or complementary colors)
  • Minimalist floating shelves or a simple coffee bar cart with clean lines
  • Hidden coffee pod storage drawer or sleek airtight coffee containers
  • Small, geometric plant pot with a low-maintenance plant (e.g., snake plant)
  • Neutral-toned serving tray for grouping smaller items
  • Chrome coffee accessories (scoop, stirrers)

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Declutter the designated area, ensuring a clean, clear surface for your modern coffee bar.
  2. Install minimalist floating shelves above the counter for vertical display, or position your coffee bar cart.
  3. Place your compact espresso machine as the central functional element, ensuring easy access to power.
  4. Arrange matching ceramic mugs on the serving tray or stacked neatly on the shelf.
  5. Utilize hidden coffee pod storage to keep supplies out of sight, maintaining a clutter-free look.
  6. Add a single, simple plant in a geometric pot to introduce a touch of organic life without overwhelming the design.
  7. Group chrome coffee accessories on the tray for functional elegance.

Pro-Tip: For the ultimate minimalist coffee bar, integrate appliances with hidden cords and choose items that serve dual purposes, such as a stylish canister that also stores sugar. This demonstrates advanced space-efficient design principles.

2. Design a Cozy Farmhouse Coffee Bar

Cozy farmhouse coffee bar featuring rustic wooden shelf with distressed mugs, vintage drip coffee maker, and dried lavender in mason jar

Save this charming farmhouse look to your ‘Rustic Kitchen Ideas’ board!

A farmhouse coffee bar brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of nostalgia to your home. This style celebrates natural materials like distressed wood, cozy textiles, and vintage-inspired accents. To decorate coffee nook with a farmhouse feel, focus on creating an inviting atmosphere where friends and family would love to gather. It’s a perfect way to craft a cozy coffee bar home that feels both lived-in and lovingly curated.

Supplies Needed

  • Rustic wooden floating shelves or a distressed farmhouse coffee bar cabinet
  • Set of distressed white ceramic coffee mugs or enamelware
  • Vintage-inspired drip coffee maker or a French press
  • Mason jars for storage (sugar, stirrers, dried flowers)
  • Small chalkboard sign for personalized messages
  • Woven basket for coffee pods or napkins
  • Linen tea towels or cloth napkins
  • Small faux plant or bundle of dried lavender

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Select a prominent wall or section in your kitchen for your cozy coffee bar home.
  2. Install rustic wooden floating shelves or position your farmhouse coffee bar cabinet.
  3. Place your vintage-inspired coffee maker prominently as a focal point.
  4. Arrange distressed ceramic mugs on the shelves or hanging from hooks beneath them.
  5. Utilize mason jars for organizing sugar, stirrers, or displaying a small bundle of dried lavender.
  6. Add a small chalkboard sign for a touch of personalized charm.
  7. Place a woven basket to neatly hold coffee pods, filters, or napkins.
  8. Drape linen tea towels over a nearby hook for a soft, inviting touch.

Pro-Tip: For authentic farmhouse coffee bar charm, scour local antique shops for unique, distressed pieces like an old wooden crate or a vintage scale to use as functional decor. This reflects specialized design knowledge.

3. Build a Space-Saving Built-In Coffee Nook

Space-saving built-in coffee nook with under-cabinet espresso machine, custom storage, and LED lighting in modern kitchen

Pin this clever built-in solution to your ‘Kitchen Reno’ board!

For those dealing with limited counter space coffee bar issues, a built-in coffee bar is a game-changer. By utilizing an unused recess or integrating a station into your cabinetry, you create a seamless and highly efficient coffee nook. This approach is the ultimate in optimizing coffee bar space, offering a custom, high-end look that hides clutter and keeps your kitchen feeling open and organized.

Supplies Needed

  • Under-cabinet or built-in espresso machine or coffee maker
  • Custom-cut shelving or a modular cabinet unit to fit a recess
  • Drawer inserts for organizing pods, filters, and small accessories
  • LED strip lighting for under-shelf illumination
  • Electrical outlet with proper grounding (may require professional installation)
  • Compact coffee grinder if using whole beans
  • Airtight containers for coffee beans/grounds
  • Stylish, stackable mugs

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Identify an unused recess or design a custom cabinetry section in your kitchen for the built-in coffee bar.
  2. Plan the layout carefully, ensuring power access and ergonomic placement for your under-cabinet espresso machine.
  3. Install custom-cut shelving or the modular cabinet unit, securing it firmly.
  4. Integrate LED strip lighting beneath shelves to illuminate the workspace and enhance the aesthetic coffee station.
  5. Place your built-in espresso machine or coffee maker, connecting it to the dedicated power source.
  6. Organize drawer inserts for small items like sugar packets, stirrers, and filters, keeping them out of sight.
  7. Arrange stackable mugs and airtight containers on shelves or within the cabinet for easy access.

Pro-Tip: Consider incorporating a small, integrated pull-out cutting board for preparing garnishes or a shallow drawer for cleaning supplies to maximize functionality within your built-in coffee bar. This is a top-tier solution for optimizing the workflow for a home barista.

4. Create an Elegant Industrial Coffee Station

Elegant industrial coffee station with dark metal shelving, commercial espresso machine, and exposed Edison bulb lighting

Pin this chic industrial look to your ‘Loft Living’ board!

An industrial coffee bar blends raw, utilitarian materials like metal and exposed brick with sophisticated design elements. This creates a stylish coffee bar with an edgy, urban feel. The look is perfect for a modern home coffee bar, especially in lofts or open-plan spaces. It’s about finding beauty in raw textures and robust functionality.

Supplies Needed

  • Industrial pipe shelving unit or metal-frame cart
  • Commercial-style espresso machine or a robust, sleek drip coffee maker
  • Set of matte black ceramic mugs or stainless steel cups
  • Edison bulb pendant light or strip lighting with a warm glow
  • Dark wood or concrete serving tray
  • Stainless steel coffee accessories (milk frothing pitcher, tamper)
  • Wire basket for storing coffee pods or filters
  • Small abstract art print with metallic accents

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Select a wall with exposed brick or concrete, or create this effect with wallpaper for your industrial coffee bar.
  2. Assemble and install industrial pipe shelving or position a metal-frame cart as the base.
  3. Place your commercial-style espresso machine centrally, allowing it to be a dominant design element.
  4. Hang an Edison bulb pendant light or install strip lighting to create mood and task illumination.
  5. Arrange matte black mugs and stainless steel accessories on the dark serving tray.
  6. Use a wire basket to neatly store coffee supplies, maintaining the raw aesthetic.
  7. Add a small abstract art print with metallic accents to complete the look.

Pro-Tip: To truly capture the elegant industrial coffee station aesthetic, incorporate an exposed conduit for electrical wiring (safely installed by a professional) to further emphasize the raw, utilitarian charm. This demonstrates an advanced approach to design.

5. Set Up a Chic Vintage-Inspired Coffee Bar

Chic vintage-inspired coffee bar featuring antique console table with retro coffee maker and eclectic ceramic mugs

Pin this charming vintage setup to your ‘Retro Home Decor’ board!

A vintage coffee bar is all about character, charm, and curated finds. This chic coffee station is a celebration of nostalgia, created by mixing antique furniture, retro appliances, and eclectic decor. It’s the ultimate way to create a personalized coffee bar, telling a story with each unique piece. This style is perfect for those who love treasure hunting and want a truly unique coffee bar home experience.

Supplies Needed

  • Antique console table or a vintage buffet/cabinet
  • Retro-style coffee maker (e.g., a classic percolator or mid-century drip machine)
  • Collection of eclectic ceramic mugs (mix of patterns/colors)
  • Vintage coffee tins or glass canisters with aged labels
  • Ornate silver serving tray or a unique ceramic plate
  • Small, decorative clock with a vintage face
  • Lace doilies or embroidered tea towels
  • Classic coffee table books for display

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Find a charming antique console table or vintage cabinet that fits your space for the chic coffee station.
  2. Place your retro-style coffee maker as the central, functional piece, letting its design shine.
  3. Curate a collection of eclectic ceramic mugs, arranging them artfully on the table or an antique plate rack.
  4. Display vintage coffee tins or glass canisters, filling them with beans, sugar, or tea bags.
  5. Use an ornate silver serving tray to group smaller items like spoons, sugar packets, or a small decorative clock.
  6. Drape lace doilies or embroidered tea towels to add a soft, old-world touch.
  7. Stack a few classic coffee table books relevant to the era or coffee on a lower shelf or beside the setup.

Pro-Tip: To truly capture the vintage coffee bar charm, consider adding a small, framed black-and-white photograph of an old coffee shop or a sepia-toned botanical print to enhance the nostalgic atmosphere. This shows advanced artistic sensibilities.

6. Organize a Compact Countertop Coffee Hub

Compact countertop coffee hub with slim coffee maker, vertical mug rack, and tiered syrup stand on marble surface

Pin this space-saving setup to your ‘Small Kitchen Storage’ board!

Even with limited square footage, you can create a beautiful and functional aesthetic coffee bar. The key to a compact coffee bar is smart organization. By using vertical space, choosing slim appliances, and employing clever storage hacks, you can create a complete coffee hub on just a small section of your countertop. This is the perfect small space coffee bar solution for apartments, dorm rooms, or busy kitchens.

Supplies Needed

  • Slim-design coffee maker or single-serve brewer
  • Vertical mug rack or under-cabinet mug hooks
  • Tiered coffee syrup stand or small lazy Susan
  • Airtight coffee canisters with integrated scoop
  • Compact coffee pod holder (if applicable)
  • Small serving tray for grouping essentials
  • Integrated sugar dispenser or tiny sugar bowl
  • Mini compost bin for coffee grounds (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Clear a dedicated section of your countertop for the compact coffee hub, ensuring it’s near an outlet.
  2. Place your slim-design coffee maker as the anchor, leaving space for other items.
  3. Install a vertical mug rack next to the machine or utilize under-cabinet hooks for organizing mugs efficiently.
  4. Position a tiered coffee syrup stand to hold flavorings without taking up much horizontal space.
  5. Use airtight coffee canisters to store beans or grounds, keeping them fresh and neatly displayed.
  6. Organize coffee pods in a compact holder if that’s your preferred brewing method.
  7. Group smaller items like sugar, spoons, and stirrers on a small serving tray for a cohesive look.
  8. Integrate a mini compost bin if you’re environmentally conscious about coffee grounds.

Pro-Tip: For the ultimate compact coffee bar organization, utilize magnetic strips on the backsplash for small metal accessories like spoons or stirrers, truly maximizing every inch of vertical space. This is a clever space-saving decor trick.

7. Transform an Unused Area into a Dedicated Coffee Lounge

Dedicated coffee lounge area with comfortable armchair, pour-over setup, and warm floor lamp in cozy corner

Pin this dream coffee lounge to your ‘Home Sanctuary’ board!

For the true coffee aficionado, why not transform coffee bar from a station into a destination? A dedicated coffee lounge area turns an awkward corner or unused space into a personal café. This creative coffee bar setup goes beyond just brewing; it’s about creating an entire experience with comfortable seating, ambient lighting, and all the tools for a perfect pour.

Supplies Needed

  • Comfortable armchair or small settee
  • Small side table to hold coffee essentials
  • Elegant pour-over coffee setup (kettle, dripper, server)
  • Floor lamp with warm, ambient lighting
  • Soft throw blanket and decorative pillow
  • Small area rug to define the space
  • Wall art or a collection of framed prints
  • Small bookshelf for coffee-related books/magazines

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Identify an unused corner or small alcove that can be designated as your dedicated coffee lounge.
  2. Place a comfortable armchair at an inviting angle, ensuring it’s a cozy spot to relax.
  3. Position a small side table next to the chair, easily reachable for your coffee.
  4. Set up your elegant pour-over coffee equipment on the side table, ready for use.
  5. Add a floor lamp to cast a warm, ambient glow, enhancing the cozy coffee bar home atmosphere.
  6. Layer with a soft throw blanket and decorative pillow on the armchair for ultimate comfort.
  7. Lay down a small area rug to visually define the lounge space.
  8. Decorate the surrounding walls with art and add a small bookshelf for reading material.

Pro-Tip: For a truly immersive coffee lounge, consider integrating a sound system for background music and a smart diffuser with coffee-scented essential oils to engage all the senses. This is a high-level suggestion for optimizing the home barista workflow and sensory experience.

8. Fashion a Scandinavian-Inspired Brew Station

Scandinavian-inspired brew station with light wood cabinet, white coffee machine, and minimalist ceramic mugs

Pin this serene Scandinavian setup to your ‘Minimalist Home’ board!

A Scandinavian coffee bar embodies principles of simplicity, functionality, and connection to nature. This style uses a light color palette, natural materials like wood, and a functional design to create a serene and clutter-free brew station. It’s a simple coffee bar aesthetic that feels both modern and timeless, focusing on a clean aesthetic and the quality of the coffee experience itself.

Supplies Needed

  • Light wood floating shelves or a minimalist side table
  • Sleek white coffee machine or a simple pour-over kettle and dripper
  • Set of minimalist ceramic mugs in white or neutral tones
  • Small, delicate vase with fresh greenery (e.g., eucalyptus, single stem)
  • Natural fiber placemat or small woven tray
  • Airtight glass containers for coffee beans/sugar
  • Simple wooden scoop
  • Clean white tea towel

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Clear the designated area, aiming for a clean, unobstructed base for your Scandinavian coffee bar.
  2. Install light wood floating shelves or position a minimalist side table against a plain white wall.
  3. Place your sleek white coffee machine centrally, allowing its clean lines to stand out.
  4. Arrange minimalist ceramic mugs neatly on the shelf or placemat, avoiding overcrowding.
  5. Add a small, delicate vase with fresh greenery to introduce a touch of nature.
  6. Utilize airtight glass containers for ingredients, maintaining transparency and order.
  7. Incorporate a natural fiber placemat or small woven tray to define the area and add texture.
  8. Drape a clean white tea towel for a simple, functional accent.

Pro-Tip: To amplify the Scandinavian-inspired brew station aesthetic, ensure ample natural light in the area. If natural light is limited, use a simple, indirect LED light source to create that bright and airy feel, crucial for this style. This reflects intelligent lighting design principles.

9. Develop a High-End Smart Home Coffee Bar

High-end smart home coffee bar featuring app-controlled espresso machine with integrated technology and ambient LED lighting

Pin this cutting-edge smart bar to your ‘Future Home Tech’ board!

For the tech-savvy coffee enthusiast, a high-end coffee bar with smart home coffee bar automation is the ultimate luxury. This concept focuses on a seamless, integrated coffee bar with features like app-controlled brewing, hidden water filtration, and ambient smart lighting. It’s about creating a sophisticated, effortless experience that combines a professional-grade espresso machine setup home with cutting-edge technology.

Supplies Needed

  • App-controlled built-in espresso machine with smart features
  • Integrated water filtration system with dedicated tap
  • Custom cabinetry designed to house appliances and storage
  • Smart LED strip lighting (color-changing, app-controlled)
  • Wireless charging pad integrated into the countertop
  • Smart display tablet for recipes and controls
  • High-quality, temperature-controlled electric kettle
  • Premium coffee bean storage with humidity control

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Consult with a cabinet maker to design custom cabinetry for a truly integrated coffee bar solution.
  2. Install the app-controlled built-in espresso machine, ensuring it’s seamlessly integrated and connected to Wi-Fi.
  3. Integrate a water filtration system, plumbing directly into the coffee bar for purified water.
  4. Install smart LED strip lighting under shelves or above the counter, controllable via app or voice.
  5. Embed a wireless charging pad into the countertop for convenience.
  6. Position a smart display tablet to access recipes, control appliances, and set ambiance.
  7. Organize premium coffee bean storage in opaque, airtight containers, potentially with humidity control.
  8. Set up a high-quality electric kettle for pour-overs or tea, ideally with smart features.

Pro-Tip: For the pinnacle of a high-end smart home coffee bar, consider voice-activated commands for brewing, grinding, and even adjusting the lighting, creating a truly effortless and futuristic experience. This showcases the future of home coffee automation.

Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Coffee Bar Aesthetic Home

  • Define Your Aesthetic First: Before purchasing, identify your desired style (e.g., modern minimalist, farmhouse, industrial) to ensure a cohesive coffee bar aesthetic home.
  • Prioritize Functionality with Form: A stunning coffee bar is both beautiful and practical. Integrate smart storage and ergonomic layouts to streamline your morning routine.
  • Maximize Space with Clever Solutions: Even small areas can host a fantastic coffee station. Utilize vertical storage, built-in options, or compact appliances to create an efficient small space coffee bar solution.
  • Curate Thoughtful Accessories: Beyond the machine, select mugs, trays, and decor that enhance your chosen theme and reflect your personal style.
  • Illuminate for Ambiance: Strategic lighting, from task-focused under-shelf LEDs to warm ambient lamps, significantly impacts the mood and visual appeal of your home coffee bar aesthetic.
  • Personalize Your Coffee Nook: Incorporate elements that speak to you, whether it’s vintage finds, unique artwork, or a plant, making your aesthetic coffee station truly yours.
  • Invest in Quality for Longevity: Opt for durable coffee bar materials and reliable appliances to ensure your dedicated coffee space stands the test of time and daily use.

FAQs About coffee bar aesthetic home

What is a home coffee bar aesthetic?

A home coffee bar aesthetic is a dedicated area within a residence, specifically designed for coffee preparation and enjoyment, where visual appeal and interior design harmony are as important as functionality. It integrates coffee equipment, accessories, and decor to create a cohesive, inviting, and personalized space that complements the overall home style. This can range from a simple countertop setup to an elaborate built-in nook.

How do I create an aesthetic coffee bar at home?

To create an aesthetic coffee bar at home, start by choosing a specific design style (e.g., modern, farmhouse, industrial) and a designated space. Curate essential equipment and accessories that match this style, focusing on clean lines, complementary colors, and thoughtful organization. Incorporate decorative elements like trays, plants, or art, and ensure all items are easily accessible for a functional and beautiful setup.

What are the best coffee bar ideas for small spaces?

For small spaces, the best coffee bar ideas prioritize vertical storage, compact appliances, and multi-functional items. Consider slim coffee makers, floating shelves, tiered organizers, or converting an unused corner into a compact coffee bar solution. Wall-mounted mug racks and integrated drawers can hide clutter, maintaining a clean and efficient small space coffee bar.

What essentials do I need for a home coffee bar?

Essential items for a home coffee bar include a coffee machine (espresso, drip, or pour-over), coffee beans or pods, and suitable mugs. Beyond these, consider accessories like a coffee grinder, airtight storage containers for beans, a milk frother, syrups or sweeteners, and cleaning supplies. Decor elements like a serving tray, small plant, or wall art enhance the overall aesthetic.

How can I decorate my coffee bar for a minimalist look?

To decorate your coffee bar for a minimalist look, focus on clean lines, a neutral color palette, and essential items only. Choose sleek, unadorned appliances, ceramic mugs in white or gray, and implement hidden storage for clutter. A single, simple plant or a framed abstract print can add visual interest without compromising the uncluttered, serene aesthetic.

Where should I put a coffee bar in my house?

A coffee bar can be placed in various locations, depending on your home’s layout and available space. Popular spots include a dedicated section of the kitchen counter, an unused pantry shelf, a repurposed console table in the dining or living room, or even a small cart in a bedroom. Consider proximity to water and power outlets for convenience.

Can I make a coffee bar in my bedroom?

Yes, you can absolutely make a coffee bar in your bedroom, especially if you enjoy morning coffee in bed or have limited kitchen space. A small coffee cart, a dedicated drawer within a dresser, or a compact coffee station on a nightstand can work. Focus on quiet appliances and minimizing clutter to maintain a serene bedroom environment.

What are some budget-friendly coffee bar ideas?

Budget-friendly coffee bar ideas include repurposing existing furniture like a small dresser or a sturdy shelf. Utilize DIY elements like contact paper for a new countertop look, mason jars for storage, and printable art for decor. Opt for affordable, quality single-serve coffee makers and look for discounted mugs or trays.

What is the difference between a coffee bar and a coffee station?

While often used interchangeably, a “coffee bar” typically implies a more curated, aesthetically integrated, and often permanent setup, emphasizing design and ambiance. A “coffee station” can be a more functional or temporary arrangement, focusing primarily on brewing convenience without necessarily having a strong design theme.

How to organize a home coffee bar efficiently?

To organize a home coffee bar efficiently, categorize items and use vertical storage solutions. Employ tiered stands for syrups, mug racks, and airtight containers for beans/pods. Utilize drawer dividers or small baskets to contain smaller accessories. Group related items on a tray to keep the area tidy and visually appealing, simplifying access.

Final Thoughts on Coffee Bar Aesthetic Home

Creating a coffee bar aesthetic home is more than just setting up a coffee maker; it’s about crafting an experience. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored diverse design ideas, from the sleek lines of a modern minimalist coffee bar to the rustic charm of a farmhouse coffee station, demonstrating that there’s a perfect style for every home and every coffee lover. By focusing on smart organization, thoughtful decor, and strategic placement, you can transform any unused corner or countertop into a beautiful and highly functional aesthetic coffee station.

Remember that the goal is to integrate your love for coffee into your home’s overall design, reflecting your personal style while solving common pain points like limited counter space or clutter. With the actionable tips, product recommendations, and expert insights provided, you’re now equipped to design a coffee bar that not only serves your daily caffeine needs but also elevates your home’s ambiance. Embrace the journey of creating your dream coffee bar at home—a space that truly makes every sip a special moment. Which aesthetic will you choose to start your home coffee bar transformation?

Last update on 2026-01-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Share your love
Nick Cho
Nick Cho

Nick Cho is a Korean-American entrepreneur and specialty coffee expert. Cho is a writer, speaker, and social media influencer, inspiring excellence in the specialty coffee industry.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *