In the modern world, it can be hard to find some peace and quiet. We are told the world is heating up, people are starving, and it seems that world war three is looming on our doorsteps. Life seems pretty bleak for a modern man trying to live his life. The thing is though, we humans are living in an unprecedented age of peace. Humans are less bloodthirsty and more peaceful now than we ever have been, yet we are bombarded at every turn by messages of war and disaster.
There is too much “noise” in modern society. Too many voices are desperate to push their message into our ears without caring if our ears (and minds) are full. The fact is humans are peaceful and loving at their cores, despite news channels trying to tell us otherwise.
Modern man needs an escape, a place for our minds to go and unwind and stretch out like they were meant to.
Gone fishin’
Traditionally, if a man sought to be free of the static of everyday existence, he would pack up his gear and go into nature. The fishing/hunting/drinking trip into nature remains a popular escape for modern man, however, as is customary of the 21st century, new rules and regulations have been placed on man and his relationship with the earth.
Now one must obtain a fishing permit to catch a fish. Good luck trying to obtain a firearm, and drinking? Well, drinking is just as endorsed as ever and even more taxed. Modern man is even more contained than ever before, so what can we do?
Back to the cave
The idea of a ‘man cave’ has gained traction over the past few years, a glorious return to primal times. A man cave is a designated space for a man to do his manly things and escape the mentally draining cacophony of everyday life. A man cave is usually a basement or garage, converted into the ultimate space for relaxation and leisure.
A man cave can be a simple as the back shed with a stereo and a bar fridge. It can and has been taken to extremes, with some man caves resembling an evil geniuses lair more than a basement games room, regardless of what man cave you envision, it’s possible to build a cave of your dreams.
So, how does one construct the dream man cave? Well, you could chuck this classy wiltshire lounge in a corner and call it a day, or you could take it to the next level and create a space worthy of Valhalla.
The best-laid plans
Before you start building your own inner sanctum, you must do some planning. Once you have found the perfect spot for your cave, consider the following;
Will your mancave have a bathroom? What about running water? If so, it will need plumbing.
What kind of load will all your electronics be drawing? If you are running multiple screens, a stereo system, a bar fridge, and lighting, perhaps you will need to do some upgrades.
Know your space before you start work, remember the old builder’s adage; “measure twice, cut once.” Having a solid plan and idea of your space will make the rest of the build much easier.
Team with the theme
Ok ok, so building a man cave is about getting away from such frivolous things as “themes” and “décor,” but it’s these things that can lift your mood and make your man cave a place you will want to spend time in. Don’t fret about design choices, stick with a timeless theme and your man cave will look thought out and premium.
Wood teamed with metal is a perfect choice for a neutral but timeless theme. Classy pieces like the wiltshire lounge will match well with industrial materials and oozes class and comfort.
Centerpiece
A man cave should accommodate other men (or women) and provide a place to unwind and play. Many man caves feature a centerpiece that draws you in and encourages you to interact. A billiards table is a classic centerpiece that not only looks amazing but will keep your guests (and you) entertained. If pool isn’t your thing, pick a passion that suits you.
Room for more
Pay close attention to your seating arrangements. You will want enough seats for all of your friends and loved ones, with an open arrangement to allow for natural conversation as well as free-flowing corridors of movement.
Placing seats against walls is a fantastic way of preserving space and keeping your man cave ‘open.’ Look for chairs and lounges with storage compartments to avoid clutter.
Keep it ventilated
Speaking of keeping your cave open, keeping it cool and ventilated should be your top priority. Real caves aren’t valued for their air quality or the cross-flow, but you are a man with a big brain and centuries of scientific discoveries at your fingertips.
Natural openings to the outside like windows are the best way of keeping your cave ventilated, but if you lack these openings, make sure you have an adequate air conditioning system. Living, breathing bodies cause as much heat build-up as modern electronics, so be prepared.
A man cave is an antidote for the sickness of the mind that permeates through modern life. As our world chokes and heaves under the weight of 7 billion souls it can seem like nothing is special or sacred anymore. Done right, a man cave can offer respite and a space to recharge and get back in touch with everything you love doing.
If building a man cave seems intimidating, don’t fret! Getting started is a simple as finding the activities that you enjoy doing. With ample planning, a man cave can become a healthy project that can transform your dingy old garage into a bastion of hope for all that is manly. All of this applies to woman too! If you like, change every time I have said “man cave” and replace it with “she shed” instead!
To read more on topics like this, check out the house category.
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