Ready to design your ultimate man cave? A place you’ll look forward to retreating to at the end of a long day or whenever you just need a break?
Whether you envision your man cave as a spot where you can recharge in solitude or as a social space to be shared with your best buddies, our steps below will help you get started with designing the in-home retreat that’s perfect for you!
#1: Find the Perfect Spot
Before anything else, it’s important to first determine the perfect spot for your man cave. While basements are one of the most popular locations, if you don’t have a basement in your home or would prefer another place, pick a part of the house that will afford you the space and privacy you want for spending time on your own, with friends or both. A study, spare room or garage are all other possibilities.
Just be sure to do a de-cluttering and deep cleaning of the space you settle on before you start buying anything and getting into the physical work of designing your man cave. This will set you up for success and make the process a whole lot easier!
#2: Determine Your Style
After finding the perfect location, you’ll want to take the time to hone in on your style. This will largely be determined by the main purpose of your man cave. Do you want to use it to have the guys over for fun, laid-back nights and weekends watching sports or playing games? If so, this will have a much different look and feel than a man cave that will serve as a place for you to unwind with a good book and a glass of wine every night before turning in.
Once you have the main purpose for your man cave set, it will be easy to make a list of the items you’ll need to create the style and mood you want. For example, sports enthusiasts will require a state-of-the-art TV and plenty of comfortable seating and, possibly, a bar area and sports-related décor. Depending on the size of your space, you might even want to dedicate an entire bar section with stylish and functional bar room cabinetry.
Book and wine lovers, on the other hand, will most likely be aiming for a library feel with plenty of shelving for books, a large reading chair, a wine cooler and proper lighting.
#3: Consider the Layout
After you know the main pieces of furniture, storage and decorative items you’ll be using, you’ll want to create the layout. In order to ensure you make the most efficient use of the space available in your man cave, it’s critical to think through the best way to arrange everything.
Involve your family and friends in this decision, as it will be extremely helpful to get the perspective of others to make the space as comfortable and practical as possible, while staying true to your vision.