Design 101 - Man Caves

Cave Man Cometh

We have entered a new ear of male sanctdom - the man cave. It's a virile sounding title that reincarnates these traditional favorites: the basement, media/entertainment room, den, and garage. "Man Cave" conjures up fairly distinct images: rugged, manly, private, haven.

The reinvigoration of this "manly" space earned a closer study. Here's the decomposition of what makes a Man Cave, from the good to the great.

Necessities

1. The Space
2. Very Big TV
3. Surround Sound System
4. Excellent Speakers
5. ALL walls painted with a Rich Earth Color.
6. Very comfortable sofa and chairs with at least one permitting the alpha to recline.
7. A Bar (doesn't have to be huge) with a frig.
8. Games/Sports Gear
9. Your Hobby/Interest equipment or materials (e.g. race cars, instruments, planes)
10. Task and accent lighting

Knocking It Out of the Park

1. Design Theme (i.e. cocktail, marine/submarine, football, hockey, poker, Star Wars, etc.)
2. Mega Theater Room
3. Chic Bar
4. High End Cabinetry and Finishes
5. Pool Table or other dedicated entertainment venue
6. Black Out window treatment
7. Plush carpeting
8. Mood lighting - LED wall washers that change colors or Fiber Optic starry night designs
9. WOW Factor Art

Lounge

• Wall color is warm and wraps you. Nice lighting plan.
• TV size inappropriate for space (too small).
• Like the guitars hanging on the wall. They personalize the space.
• Sofa and loveseat color is bland.

Bar

• This is a very sweet bar. It's large with fine minimalist detail with under counter lighting.
• Dark acoustic ceiling tiles with recessed lighting throughout are perfect.
• Bar outfitted with traditional equipment: dart board, video game, neon signage, and sports paraphernalia.
  
  

The Stage

This is just fun. Good Bye pool table. Hello, entertainment for the 21st century. I bet it's a she-cave when the man is away and a private show when he stays.

My Redesign Plan

1. Acquire a BIG screen TV, 50" or greater. The TV shown in this room is way too small. If you are lucky enough to get a cave, go large and indulge. Do not put severe limitations on the necessities.

2. A man needs to stretch out.

a. Lose the loveseat and add 2 comfortable yet stylish recliner in leather or faux suede fabric.

OR

b. Lose the glass top coffee table. Replace with a long rectangular leather ottoman to either place serving trays on it or prop your feet up.

3. Change the color of the sofa from cream to a rich taupe or nutty brown.

4. Install blackout curtains for watching those intense action flicks without getting sunlight glare.