Get the look: How to create the ultimate man cave at home

The man cave: it’s a widely talked about luxury, yearned after by all but only done well by some. Indeed, there’s a certain art to creating the humble hideaway, it needs to be luxurious yet approachable, sophisticated yet comfortable, manly (of course) but not too ‘Dan Bilzerian.’ If you are one of those lucky gentlemen who, a) has the space for a mancave and b) has the specific kind of supporting wife/girlfriend/ life partner/housemate necessary to create a mancave, and are searching for some inspiration, then look no further. Here at Denizen, we know a thing or two about quality interior design and, with a little help from our friends over at Dawson & Co, we’ve whittled it down to the top ten essentials needed to create the ultimate, gents-only space.

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Bio Hazard Bar Cabinet by Timothy Oulton

Bio Hazard Bar Cabinet by Timothy Oulton

Bio Hazard Bar Cabinet by Timothy Oulton

Bio Hazard Bar Cabinet by Timothy Oulton

Part games room, part speakeasy is often something to keep in mind when fulfilling a man cave brief. Indeed, a gentleman’s space without a place to pour oneself a tipple is sinful, and so a well-stocked bar should be on hand at all times. This black-framed, Bio Hazard Bar Cabinet has LED lighting and round, curved doors which open to reveal a gleaming centre of sleek, glass shelving — a place where your favourite drops can really be displayed in the way that they deserve. For more information, click here

Fromage Ottoman by Tolv

Fromage Ottoman by Tolv

Fromage Ottoman by Tolv

Fromage Ottoman by Tolv

Above all, man caves need to be places that can induce sublime relaxation, and so it is essential that you incorporate a way to put your feet up. All this interior designing is exhausting work, after all. This sprawling ottoman in luxurious cranberry velvet ticks all the right boxes. Not only is it wonderfully large, but the plush texture and opulent hue will add a certain je ne sais quoi to the interior. For more information, click here

Flag cushion by Timothy Oulton

Flag cushion by Timothy Oulton

Flag cushion by Timothy Oulton

Flag cushion by Timothy Oulton

Because what is a man cave without an obnoxiously loud expression of patriotism? This New Zealand flag cushion — sewn and painstakingly dyed by hand — is the ultimate way to make a bold design statement. For more information, click here

Night Rod Floor Lamp by Timothy Oulton

Night Rod Floor Lamp by Timothy Oulton

Night Rod Floor Lamp by Timothy Oulton

Night Rod Floor Lamp by Timothy Oulton

A little bit of shimmer adds just the right amount of luxury — but be sure to focus on the ‘little’ here. Unless you’re designing your interior after Mr. T, less really is more. Tall and slender, this Night Rod Floor Lamp combines optical grade glass and brushed brass to create a finished piece that is at once elegant and urban. For more information, click here

Axel MK2 Coffee Table by Timothy Oulton

Axel MK2 Coffee Table by Timothy Oulton

Axel MK2 Coffee Table by Timothy Oulton

Axel MK2 Coffee Table by Timothy Oulton

Of course, you’ll be needing a characterful coffee table to provide a platform for all your tipples, snacks and remote controls. But not just any old coffee table will do, no sir. You need something established and elegant, like this Axel MK2 Coffee Table by Timothy Oulton. Simple yet noteworthy, this furnishing displays classic timber in a traditional structure to create a functional piece that is undeniably easy on the eye. For more information, click here

Cigar Wall Art by Timothy Oulton

Cigar Wall Art by Timothy Oulton

Cigar Wall Art by Timothy Oulton

Cigar Wall Art by Timothy Oulton

Flex your masculinity and add a slice of vintage charm to your interior with this conversation-starting Cuban cigar artwork, printed on museum quality archival paper, framed in solid oak and covered with tempered glass. It delivers the sophisticated, distinguished vibe of a cigar-smoking gentleman without you actually having to smoke the cigar yourself: win-win. For more information, click here

Sahara Caravan Rug by Noble Souls

Sahara Caravan Rug by Noble Souls

Sahara Caravan Rug by Noble Souls

Sahara Caravan Rug by Noble Souls

Shake all images of man cave-typical bear skin rugs out of your mind and instead opt for something a little less offensive and far more cultured. This vintage rug, crafted from palms and reeds and decorated with intricate leather and powerful symbols, was made in the early 20th Century by nomadic tribes in the trans-Sahara region. Now you can boast to all your friends that your space is part man cave, part museum. For more information, click here.

LP 160 by La Boite Concept

LP 160 by La Boite Concept

LP 160 by La Boite Concept

LP 160 by La Boite Concept

A true manspace should boast entertainment on tap at all times, especially so of the musical variety. Whether it’s through the TX Box, turntables, your mobile phone or your laptop, this all-in-one high-fidelity loudspeaker delivers a seriously impressive quality of sound. Plus, the leather and timber combination makes for a distinctly suave furnishing. For more information, click here

Shabby Modular Sofa by Timothy Oulten

Shabby Modular Sofa by Timothy Oulten

Shabby Modular Sofa by Timothy Oulten

Shabby Modular Sofa by Timothy Oulten

A modular sofa that’s more bed than chair is essential for all the movie-watching/game-playing/general kicking back you’ll be doing. This Shabby Modular Sofa boasts deep, generous seating and a reclined back with soft, buttery leather to become an unparalleled place of comfort. For more information, click here

 

Paris Trunk by Timothy Oulton

Paris Trunk by Timothy Oulton

Paris Trunk by Timothy Oulton

Paris Trunk by Timothy Oulton

A multifaceted gem, this authentic trunk can be used as an additional side table, an interesting storage box or just as a conversation-starting objet d’art. At no point, however, should a vintage trunk actually be used as a trunk. The refined piece is available in a medley of different colours and materials — from brushed steel to eccentric cowhide — but we’re particularly taken with this sleek, vintage cigar leather variation. For more information, click here

Dawson & Co

15 The Strand
Parnell

www.dawsonandco.nz

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