How to Make a Man Cave - Dude Room - Guy's Room

Include favorite activities in your "man cave."

A man cave, or a room designed to house activities traditionally enjoyed by men, can take many forms. It might contain electronics, audio-visual equipment, sports paraphernalia, a wet bar, a poker or billiard table or a comfortable conversation area. Tailor the room to the hobbies and preferences of the man who will be using it, taking into account his favorite activities and lifestyle.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Paint or wallpaper
• Flooring
• Area rug
• Comfortable seating
• Task and ambient lighting
• Dimmer switch
• Refrigerator
• Microwave

Instructions

1. Choose a color scheme and style for the room. This might be bright and funky, sleek and urban or rustic and earthy. Select decor that matches the personality of the person who will be using the room. Consider favorite sports teams, hobbies such as hunting or fishing and special interests to inspire the decor.

2. Make a list of activities and equipment the room will house. Divide the room into zones if it needs to accommodate a variety of activities. Measure the space before choosing large equipment, such as a pool table or a home theater screen.

3. Paint or wallpaper the walls. Add comfortable, durable flooring such as carpet, hardwood or laminate. If you choose hard flooring, add a thick-pile area rug.

4. Install electronics and place the furniture in appropriate zones. Include comfortable seating. For a theater room, this might include reclining chairs or sofas and large ottomans. A game room might have giant beanbag chairs and seating around a card table.

5. Add task lighting, such as a pendant over a billiard or poker table, reading lamps near recliners and up lighting or sconces for movie viewing. Install dimmer switches for mood lighting.

6. Create a refreshment center. This can be a wet bar, a small kitchen or simply a corner of the room containing a mini-fridge and a microwave. Stock it with beverages and snacks before a party or the big game.

Tips & Warnings

• Install necessary wiring and cables before you finish the walls if possible, to accommodate Internet, cable and satellite services, surround sound and other electronic devices.

References

• Elle Decor; A Sophisticated Party House; Carla Jordan
• Apartment Therapy: Apartment Therapy Salutes Men & Their Man Caves