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How man caves are becoming personal members’ clubs where you always get in – remember Cribs, with its opulent homes of actors, sportsmen and musicians like 50 Cent and Snoop Dogg?

Man caves are trending and also changing, becoming more sophisticated as designers lean in to give them the air of a members’ club, office or home gym. Photos: Handout
Man caves are trending and also changing, becoming more sophisticated as designers lean in to give them the air of a members’ club, office or home gym. Photos: Handout

Miami-based interior designer Alfredo Paredes; Guillaume Coutheillas, founder of design firm FrenchCalifornia; and Benjamin Paulin of Paulin Paulin Paulin discuss trends in the trendiest of rooms

For family men who still mourn the solitude of the bachelor pads of their single days, “man caves” have become an increasingly popular place to escape within the home.

And if you’re wondering what a man cave even is, think back to one of MTV’s most popular TV shows of the noughties, Cribs. Every week viewers would get a chance to ogle the opulent homes of actors, sportsmen and musicians like 50 Cent and Snoop Dogg. Nine times out of 10, these mansions would include a man cave.

In their earliest incarnations, these were designed to be a place where guys could simply hang out after a long day. Often, it was a next level game-cum-cinema room in a basement or otherwise less regarded area of the house, complete with video game consoles and sports memorabilia (popcorn machine optional).

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Office-style man cave featuring FrenchCalifornia pieces
Office-style man cave featuring FrenchCalifornia pieces

Today’s man cave, however, can look and feel completely different.

“The idea of the man cave has grown beyond just a games room. We’re moving more towards the concept of a men’s club – a space that feels like a personal members’ lounge,” explains Miami-based interior designer Alfredo Paredes.

“Our clients want something sophisticated, a place where they can unwind in style, with a sense of exclusivity. It’s about creating a space that reflects their personality, but with the comfort and ambience of a private club.”

The raison d’être of the man cave isn’t what it used to be, either. Instead of being dedicated to play, newer spaces are multifunctional, versatile environments that can potentially double as an office space, library or wellness area. Some are no longer just reserved for men and offer a chic sanctuary to be enjoyed by anyone regardless of gender.

Neo Legend x The Smiley Company Hologram 90s Compact arcade game. Photo: Mr Porter
Neo Legend x The Smiley Company Hologram 90s Compact arcade game. Photo: Mr Porter

When it comes to designing their own sanctuary, men need to consider just what it is to be used for. “The first factor to consider is the purpose of the space. Is it a place to unwind, a showcase for a personal collection, or a hybrid workspace? The design should align with these goals,” says Guillaume Coutheillas, founder of design firm FrenchCalifornia.

“For example, if you’re a collector, the design might focus on displaying and preserving those items. Additionally, consider how the room can evolve with you over time. Longevity is key, so the room should be adaptable to future changes in lifestyle or interests.”