How to Transform Your Garage into a Man Cave

You’re leaning against your open garage door, daydreaming about transforming it into a man cave. You’ve cleaned out the boxes, found a place for the garden tools and decided where to install the TV. All you need are a few tips to make this dream a reality! We at Pottery Barn are ready to help with these ideas about transforming your garage into a man cave.

Man Cave Furniture: Let It Fit Your Purpose 

Will your man cave be a hideaway for some quiet solitude? Or will it be a place to hang out with friends? What about a bit of both? If this is your hideaway, a comfortable recliner is a must-have. Consider one in top-grain, aniline-dyed leather to last through a lifetime of football games and afternoon relaxation. Burnished leathers provide an ultra-relaxed look and feel. If you expect your man cave to become a men cave, add a matching sofa. Don’t forget a coffee table for keeping drinks and snacks on hand.

Man Cave Bar: Make a Statement or a Cocktail

If you man cave is for relaxation and hanging out, a bar is an excellent multipurpose piece of furniture. It keeps you prepared when your buddies pop by. It can also act as a storage space for your toolbox or an occasional garden tool. If you’re a wine aficionado, choose a bar with a wine grid.

Stock your bar with accessories that fit your style. Leather accessories, including an ice bucket, cocktail shaker and bar tools, convey a polished vibe. On the other hand, there are other options with a sleeker feel, like smooth stainless-steel designs. Whatever you choose, you’ll be ready for cocktails, mocktails or a hearty glass of Cabernet. Coasters are helpful for protecting the bar and your furniture. You can either stick with a set that matches your other bar accessories or change it up with seasonal coasters. Whether you fill it with cold brews or cold sodas and ice, a party bucket is another must-have item. It’ll come in handy when you and your friends are cheering on your favorite team. 

Man Cave Decor: Spreading Out Rugs

Toss some geometric rugs on the floor area. If your future man cave has seen some automotive use, you might have a few fluids stains on the concrete. Rugs are a great way to cover them up – just remember to get a rug pad! Floor coverings also add a splash of color, style and warmth. A multi-colored rug can tie together elements of your man cave decor that have a variety of different hues, like your posters and pillows. It gives a little pizzazz to the floor, too. A neutral rug pairs well with dark furniture. It’s a good choice if you’re planning your man cave as a place of calm solitude.

Decorating to Suit Your Style

Decor differentiates your man cave from other great hangout spots. Mount some favorite photos, sports memorabilia, that huge fish you caught or vintage signs. You might prefer placing some decorative objects on your bar, such as an hourglass. Keep your latest titles handy between decorative bookends if you like to escape into a good novel. Whether you decide to paint the walls or leave them as is, consider choosing artwork that reflects your own interests. Maps make great conversation pieces and help you reminisce or dream about your favorite travel spots. Find a subject that matches your interests. Let that become your decorating theme.

Create a Sensory Experience

You’ve painted and decorated. Your furniture is set up at the perfect viewing distance from the TV. Your walls reflect your passions, hobbies and style. Your bar is stocked. Your rugs perfectly accent your slippers lying on them. What’s missing? All your senses are satisfied, except one: your nose! To keep your man cave from reminding you of its humbler garage origins, complete the transformation with an oil diffuser. Choose a scent you love. Go with a crisp, evergreen tree scent for an outdoorsy feel. Or, go with a teakwood-and-whiskey blend to add the nostalgic scent of a retro den or library. Whatever you choose will subtly create an ambience that reminds anyone entering of what a lively and lovely space it is.