My client’s basement was in desperate need of a makeover and the space was screaming for an identity of its own.
This large basement had potential, but it was plagued by confusing furniture placement and lacked zones to fully utilize the space.
The typical man cave conjures images of a place where beer is spilled, games are played and walls are covered in tacky sports collectables. Think again. Times have changed and the man cave has transformed into a more family-oriented room with some manly flair.
With this space I started with creating appropriate zones in the space. My client wanted a TV area, a bar area and games table, along with plenty of storage! A designated wall was needed to house the large TV. The homeowner has some great collectables, which we showcased in a stunning show-stopping custom two-tone display and TV cabinet created by CTV’s Paul Campbell (who has a new sitcom starting in March called SpunOut with materials purchased from Lowe’s. As an added bonus a wireless surround sound system was added from Sonos so the real hi-fi sound could be obtained when watching movies or listening to music.
A family-friendly and durable sofa from the Jo Alcorn collection has enough room for everyone to cuddle up on and watch TV. Toss cushions were added from Bouclair to add in pops of colour and I also threw in some fun beanbags from Comfy Kids so the kids could have their own spot in the room. A multifunctional coffee table from Harkel Furniture (www.harkeloffice.com) opens up into an eating table, great for the kids to work and snack on. An affordable rug and arch lamp from Lowes complete the space.
For additional seating I added a bar-height sofa table and stools behind the sofa for large parties and for the kids to eat or do homework. The bar was created using cabinetry from Cutler Kitchen’s Silouette line from Lowe’s as the base and the counter top is from Countertop Magic (also ordered through Lowe’s). The bar was created to look more like a kitchen island and become a gathering place in the home.
I wanted to add a real wow factor to the space, and there was no better way than a statement wall created using budget-friendly Para Paints. This wall was custom painted wall by celebrity painter Jim Connelly. It’s the first thing you see when you walk down the stairs, creating excitement as you enter the family man cave. If you’d like to learn how to re-create this look yourself or have Jim create it for you, you can check out his classes online or at his downtown studio.
The final zone features the games table, which can also be transformed into a homework table and food serving area. The multifunctional height adjustable table from Harkel can be raised to cocktail table height for larger parties, or lowered for a games night with the family. The extra chairs around the table add extra seating for an occasion. This zone is a win-win all around!
This basement has become the perfect extension to my client’s home, a place where they are excited to entertain and enjoy with the whole family.
Are you inspired to create a man cave by renovating your basement? Take a look at eieihome’s directory of basement renovators.
