A man cave, also known as a “manland” or “man space,” is a dedicated area in a home where a man can retreat to unwind and/or indulge in his hobbies and interests. While not a new concept, it has continued to capture the interest of worn-out males who need a place to get away from it all.

If studies are any indicator, more and more men are opting to hunker down in testosterone-centric rooms. In a poll conducted by home improvement marketplace HomeAdvisor (formerly ServiceMagic), 40 percent of respondents said they currently have a man cave in their home, while 13 percent reported theirs being in the planning phase or under construction.

But…why a man cave?

First, a man cave provides a personal space for a man to call his own. This area can be decorated and furnished to his taste and can be used for activities such as watching sports, playing video games, or working on do-it-yourself projects. This can be especially beneficial for men who live with partners or families, as it can be difficult to find time and space to pursue one’s own interests in a shared living environment.

Second, a man’s space can serve as a dad’s sanctuary for stress relief and relaxation. A quiet and comfortable room can be the perfect place to unwind after a long day at work or escape everyday life’s stresses. Many guys find that creating and maintaining a mantuary can be therapeutic in itself. The process allows them to take control of their personal space and take pride in their accomplishments.

Third, the “manland” can be a great place to entertain friends and family. Whether it’s hosting a sports viewing party, a game night, or a DIY workshop, a man cave can be a great place to gather with loved ones and enjoy each other’s company.

Finally, a man cave can also be a great place to improve one’s health and well-being. For example, by setting up a small gym or yoga studio in the man cave, a man can make it easy to exercise and stay active.

Preparing the basement

A man space is certainly a great way to make use of your basement. Especially, if like many homeowners, you haven’t gotten around to doing anything with it. 

Preparing for this specific type of basement renovation can be a daunting task. However, with proper planning and organization, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are a few key steps to take before beginning your renovation:

Declutter

The first step in any renovation is to declutter your space. This means getting rid of any items that you no longer need or use. This will not only free up space in your basement but also make it easier to see what you have to work with and what needs to be changed.

Assess the space

Once your basement is decluttered, it’s time to assess the area. Look for any structural issues, such as cracking or dampness, that need to be addressed. This step is crucial to ensuring that your man cave is safe and functional.

Tear down walls

If you’re planning on making major changes to the layout of your basement, such as creating new rooms or changing the flow, it may be necessary to tear down walls. This step can be a bit messy, but it will allow you to bring to life the mantuary of your dreams.

Create a design plan

After assessing the space and tearing down walls, it’s time to create a design plan. This plan should include your desired layout, color scheme, and any specific features you want to include, such as a wet bar or home theater.

Gather materials and hire a contractor

Once your design plan is complete, it’s time to gather materials and hire a contractor. Choose high-quality materials that will stand the test of time, such as durable flooring and waterproof paint. It’s also important to hire a reputable contractor who can bring your design plan to life.

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Design and renovation tips

Decide on a theme

The theme of the man cave determines how good it is. What is the function of a man cave? Are you going to use it to play games or watch sports? Maybe a bar where you can watch movies or just hang out with the guys?

There are numerous options available to you. For example, if you are a big sports fan, you can have a man cave decked out in the colors of your favorite team and have a feature wall filled with signed memorabilia. 

If you love playing a sport instead of watching it, you can add equipment that will allow you to improve your game. As a serious putter, you may want to add an indoor putting green to practice those before teeing up on an actual course. We recommend designing a man cave that meets all of those requirements.

Make an open seating arrangement.

Seats in the center of the ultimate man cave can leave empty spaces. Instead, place seating against the walls when possible, or use the space behind your gaming chairs for storage or display tables. Maintain as much open seating as possible.

Find a way to cool down – preferably outside.

Electronics and human bodies generate a lot of heat in small spaces. To keep the room cool, install high-quality air conditioning. You can connect the space to your home’s HVAC system, but another air conditioner unit may be necessary for extra cooling. A connection to the outside world, even if it’s just a small window, is extremely beneficial (especially if you are using that humidor).

Examine the space and electrical requirements.

While planning furniture, TVs, tables, and other accessories for your ultimate mantuary, take careful measurements. Also, always research the available space before making a purchase. Examine the wiring and outlets in your basement to see if they require an upgrade or addition. 

Prepare for plumbing needs

A superior man cave may not require plumbing, especially if the bathroom or kitchen is nearby. However, plumbing may be required in other areas. But since you plan to have it at the lowest level of the house, it would be wise to look into basement plumbing systems. A closet bathroom is especially useful in such an area, and if you want a full bar, a source of running water is a must. If you require plumbing, plan ahead of time.

A Man’s Personal Space

Having a man cave provides a personal space, a sanctuary for stress relief, a place to entertain friends and family, and improves one’s health and well-being. It’s a great way for men to express themselves, pursue their interests, and create a space that is truly their own.