The Ultimate Man Cave: A Lazy Man’s Guide
Designing the Ultimate Man Cave
Man caves of the modern age are a far cry from the image they might conjure in your imagination. No club-wielding, hairy guys chiseling out rocks here. (And if this happens to describe someone you know, that's okay, too. We don't judge!) Today's man cave is a clever cocktail of masculinity and tasteful elegance. Tailored to the man in question, your next man cave could look like anything. You might even refer to it as a study, a cigar room, or a mantuary (which is a bit tongue-in-cheek but I love it anyway).
To get your brain on the right track, here are three essential design-build considerations for every man cave design, regardless of aesthetic, size, and location.
BRACING AND SPACING
If you or your spouse plan to include a pool table or hefty bar top, be sure the floor can support heavy loads. You'll likely need to have your design team spec extra joists or beams if your man cave is located anywhere other than the ground floor.
Make sure to leave space around these items for bar-specific appliances, such as built-in beverage refrigerators or sleek pizza ovens. Lastly, don't forget to leave wall space for any taxidermy or other such trophies that will be displayed.
LIGHTING THINGS UP
Lighting is best done in three layers. First, recessed lights should be spaced evenly throughout the man cave, with the ability to have only a few on at a time. Pendant lights above the bar and a chandelier above the pool table or poker table make for a solid second layer of lighting. Third, add accent lights, whether they are neon signs of your favorite beverage brands or more dignified under-bar/cabinet lights. Lights make all the difference!
DURABLE FINISHES
Granite or quartz bar tops and resilient wood stain and finish on all furniture will help your man cave look new for decades. High-quality upholstery or performance fabric will ensure the seating remains both comfortable and classy, while luxury vinyl flooring will withstand manly amounts of foot traffic and the occasional game day spill.
Though the term "man cave" might sound basic and bare bones, this space is no place to cut corners. Let your designer help you select high-quality finishes and textures that will create exactly the aesthetic you want.
DESIGN TIP
Two-way Traffic
Traffic flow matters, especially on Super Bowl Sunday in a crowded man cave. Be mindful of the bar and fridge placement, seating arrangements, and TV angles. This space is a party waiting to happen!
DESIGN TREND
The Minimal Man
Man caves of the modern era are leaning toward minimalism, with muted palettes of black, gray, and white and curated artwork on otherwise plain walls. Careful not to let this trend dull your creativity.
