man cave (noun):
a room or space (as in a basement) designed according to the taste of the man of the house to be used as his personal area for hobbies and leisure activities.
As defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the man cave has also been called the manspace or male sanctuary. From sports like golf or hunting, to art, cars, travel, and everything in between, many guys want their own place to relax and “decorate” according to their own taste and interest. Don’t have a personal space set up yet?
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Here are a few simple tips.
1. Get creative with where you could set up your space. Maybe it’s the garage, spare bedroom, media room, den, or basement. While our basement is less than desirable at this point, our attic is finished, and over the holidays my husband set up his own space. He also contributed a new man cave term, his being called the “man tower,” as it’s on our third floor. His room is multi-functional, as the size of the room allows for it to serve as an office, closet, and lounge.
2. Make a plan for how you want to set it up. What existing furniture, “toys,” memorabilia, and decor do you have that you want to incorporate into your space? And, of course, leave room for future finds and purchases.
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3. Find a focal point for your man cave. It can be that big screen TV, workbench, trophy case, prized mount, pool table, putting green, or just about anything you are passionate about. Once you have your focal point, figure out where you want to place it in the room and this will help you finalize your room plan.
4. Choose wall colors (check out Glidden’s Top 10 Man Cave Colors), furniture and lighting that you will need. We completed my husband’s space on a budget by reusing a couch that was once used in our living room, a chair from a spare bedroom, and lamps used in his previous office, which allowed for more money in the budget for new items like a TV, media stand, and audio system.
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5. While not necessary to complete the man cave, many guys love the idea of a bar space, or in the case of my husband, at least a small refrigerator so that his beverage of choice is within arm’s reach.
6. Allow your interests to help you pull together the final details. For example, use your favorite color when choosing pillows or rugs, and your favorite sports team or art when choosing wall decor. Adding a plant or two can bring “life” to the room and personal/ vintage items can add meaning.
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Whether your space is large or small, your budget is extravagant or limited, you can create a comfortable, inviting space that is all about you and your interests. It will be a great place to spend time with your buddies and, who knows, maybe even your significant other from time to time (wink).
