While man caves aren’t new—think finished basements and rumpus/rec rooms from past decades—the term can conjure stereotypical imagery. Some men seek the typical result when looking to finish a den, spare bedroom, or basement; but options and creativity abound.
Trista Dean at Roughing It In Style works with clients who finish raw space and re-do finished space, both to create a retreat and to reinvest in their homes, given appreciating home prices and growing equity in the competitive real estate market. “We see budgets from $10k to $30k for decor, depending on furniture, built-ins, and other options,” she said. “Hot trends are barn wood walls, industrial elements, and technology like wireless devices and multiple TVs to watch more than one game or to play video games and have a sporting event on. ‘Secret door’ bookshelves to camouflage the entry to a space are also new and exciting.”
Man caves, “typical” or unique, reflect the personality and lifestyle of the user, from workout areas to music studios to libraries or even yoga retreats. Even for unique spaces, there are often amenities like high-end sound systems, large TVs, full bars or taps for local craft beer.
“Avid bicyclists and rock climbers want rooms for those passions, including bike storage and maintenance, or bouldering walls,” said Bryan McCormack of Sunflower Furnishings in Longmont. “We see a lot of Cross Fit enthusiasts devoting space to workout equipment and working out with family. Technology improves the experience, particularly a quality computer to use for work and downloading and storing media like music, movies and sports.”
Kira Koldeway of Highcraft Builders sees increased interest in home gyms, too; and more projects where they are converting barns into finished living spaces.
“That’s along with clients finishing an attic or basement, repurposing an underutilized guest bedroom, or reclaiming square footage over or within a garage. Some use outdoor space like a covered seating area to take advantage of our climate, or an outbuilding or guest house,” she said, “which matches the trend to create more outdoor living space.”
Outdoor options, particularly if inside space is limited, and shelter and privacy is needed, include a shed, tent or yurt, which can double as a quiet work space away from the distractions of home or office.
Colorado Yurt Company in Montrose has offered teepees, wall tents and yurts for 42 years. “Our 16-foot yurt makes a perfect man cave,” said Ivy Fife. “We make each yurt here, to order. They’re engineered structures strong enough to be left up all year. They can be heated with a wood stove, electric heat or a mini-split, and cooled with a window unit, freestanding A/C or swamp cooler or, if shaded, fans.”
Brad Shannon is a freelance writer based in Loveland. To comment on this article, send an email to letters@nocostyle.com.
