Goodness knows, we can’t follow every home decor trend when updating a space or we’d be like gerbils on a wheel —run, run, running on a path that never ends.
But I do believe that it’s important to create a design plan based on the likes of the occupants and how the space needs to function. Designers would laugh and say, “Well, duh. Of course this is what needs to be done.” But you’d be surprised at how many design plans end up with awkward spaces and uncomfortable seating. I can attest to this first hand.
When we started the man cave refresh, the guys really wanted the space to remain true to their wants and needs. So in order to identify what kind of accessories they would like, I started by creating a word cloud. Yes! A word cloud.
And here’s what floated.
How to Design a Man Cave You Both Will Love
This post is sponsored by Custom Cut Decor, but all projects and opinions are 100% my own.
Close Mouth, Open Ears
Over the course of the last six months, I’ve spent a lot of time listening.
My guys (the hubs and the son) are always yakking about something. And when I floated words from their conversations, the same words were always present. Regardless of the subject, the word cloud always floated “more power.”
Tripping to the 1990s
If you’re like me and had an instant flashback to Tim Allen in the hit TV series Home Improvement, then you’re spot on with my guys. Anything and everything, from mountain bikes, tennis rackets, dishwashers,TVs, computers, or cars, must have….. “More Power….Arghhhhh.”
But you gotta hand it to them, day in and day out, they are totally breaming with life and energy. And because of this, I decided the man cave wouldn’t be true to them —truly their space —if it didn’t incorporate who they are.
So fasten your seatbelt Tool Man, it’s time for “more power.”
The Three Word Test
To get the “more power” design plan going, the primary accessories in the test area were given the “life, energy, and power” test.
And in my mind, nothing says energy and power with more flair than half of a windmill. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s a super hot item being used in decor right now, but that’s just a little perk for me. **winkwink**
I totally fell in love with the rich patina and blade spread on this piece. And for a basement with a rather low ceiling, the open elements add so much movement and texture without the usual heaviness of a big piece.
Below the windmill is a hat tip to the guys and their love for cars —and, of course, horse power. I know, I know, it’s so cheesy, but seriously. Just look at the movement and power in the painting. And could these colors be any more perfect?
Fill’er Up
The remaining bookcase was filled with very neutral elements that support the central artwork, but do not command the eye’s attention. From this space, which is the landing at the bottom of the basement stairs, the idea of a modern-rustic-industrial look with a focus on “more power” will extend into the rest of the finished areas.
Stay Focused
Once the design plan is identified, measure everything being considered against the plan. I say this because I was a little surprised when somebody said that, based on this description, the refresh is leaning more steam punk. Say whaaaat?
Yea. Steam punk. How did I get there?
So I need to be careful and remain focused. This is why extending the ideas from the landing will come in handy. I basically have a living mood board in front of me.
What do you think?
I’d love it if you’d leave a thought in the comments at the bottom of the post.
Thank you for joining me for Part 2 of the Man Cave Makeover Series.
So beautiful Susie! I just love Custom Cuts products. I love the way you decorated this whole area. It’s stunning as always! I love that windmill and it’s on my wish list <3
The windmill and all it’s glorious patina is gorgeous…ahem…studly and manly just like the BMW remote in the tray. I’m so cheek. Looking forward to seeing the man cave come together.
LOL.. Thanks Marie. Well, what can I say? These boys love their cars. When I asked what needed to be included in the man cave, my son said, “The 3 C’s….coffee, communication devices, and car keys.” He set up the vignette citing that I could decorate around it. LOL…. Thanks for stopping by!!
The man cave is really coming along, Susie! Win/win that you brought the “power” in such beautiful accessories. And how lucky are your guys that you put so much thought and energy into creating their space. Take care, Cynthia
15 Comments
So beautiful Susie! I just love Custom Cuts products. I love the way you decorated this whole area. It’s stunning as always! I love that windmill and it’s on my wish list <3
Thanks so much CArolann. I totally agree. Love the Custom Cut products.
That windmill is stunning! I love the way this man cave is coming together. Can’t wait to see more.
The man cave really looks awesome! You did an amazing job with the decor!
Thanks Micki!!
The windmill and all it’s glorious patina is gorgeous…ahem…studly and manly just like the BMW remote in the tray. I’m so cheek. Looking forward to seeing the man cave come together.
LOL.. Thanks Marie. Well, what can I say? These boys love their cars. When I asked what needed to be included in the man cave, my son said, “The 3 C’s….coffee, communication devices, and car keys.” He set up the vignette citing that I could decorate around it. LOL…. Thanks for stopping by!!
The man cave is really coming along, Susie! Win/win that you brought the “power” in such beautiful accessories. And how lucky are your guys that you put so much thought and energy into creating their space. Take care, Cynthia
Gorgeous and a great looking man cave. I love the lamps and the fan blades.
Thanks Vanessa! I painted the lamps. They came to our house in during the “bronze” age….LOL.
This just looks so nice Susie! I am in love with that half windmill. How cool is that? It is perfect for the man cave!! Nice job as always!!!
Thanks Michelle! Yes, the windmill is a big hit. It is unique and fun. We just love it!
Your Man Cave is a room any woman will love. I am really drawn to the windmill. Great job.
Thanks Debra! I totally agree —the windmill is the best!
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