There are plenty of reasons you might get a craving for a man cave renovation. Maybe you need somewhere to hole up for the long Edmonton winters, or to escape for a glass of scotch and a good book. Maybe the wife needs you to be somewhere else when you’re screaming at the referee for that terrible call. Sometimes there’s just something satisfying about having a place to call your own, without having to share.

Man caves come in all shapes and sizes, from sprawling basement units to reappropriated extra bedrooms to backyard sheds. Some are used primarily for entertainment; others share more practical uses like workout spaces or workshop areas. Whatever your reasons, there are some essentials for the man cave in your Edmonton property that you just can’t do without.

The Throne

Whether it’s a plush single-seat recliner to sink your backside into or an extended leather couch to fit your entire crew for an afternoon of game-watching, your seating arrangement is essential to the layout of your room and the way you’ll enjoy it. You won’t be able to relax on a lumpy old sofa, and you don’t want to be stuck without seating options if you’re going to be hosting the boys over to watch a movie or play a round of cards.

Pick a suitable throne for your kingdom based on what your needs will be. If you’re a lone wolf, then a cushy armchair or two might be all you need. If you and your buddies will be regularly congregating for game nights or to watch the Oilers, you might opt for a larger seating arrangement. Either way, it’s always a good idea to have some options for hosting guests, even if it’s just a few barstools.

The Entertainment System

This is what many man caves are centered around, so it’s important to get things right. Entertainment systems mean different things to different people, but they’re almost always centered around a large screen. This could be a large television or even a projection screen. This screen is sometimes accompanied by additional smaller screens for the watching of multiple games or events, but the primary large screen is most vital.

On this screen you’ll be enjoying your sports games, movies, video games, and more. In general, it’s hard to go wrong with the “bigger is better” philosophy though depending on the size of your cave a smaller TV can work just fine. Of course you’ll want a dvd/blu-ray player and any game systems you might be interested in. And a good sound system is a must—surround sound if possible. A reliable radio and music player is another great addition.

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The Bar

No man cave is complete without a place to sequester your beverages of choice, whether it’s a six pack of your favorite brew, that 20 year whiskey, or a full-fledged bar. You need somewhere to prepare your drinks and have easy access to beverages so you won’t have to go far from the game to get another cold one in your hand. That’s why a minifridge (if not a full-sized refrigerator) is also recommended. Your bar is the perfect place to store and present snacks, too! Don’t forget to plan somewhere to toss your trash and recyclables.

Whatever your man caves ends up looking like, it’s important to make it yours. Personalize it with decorations and mementos that express your personality. Add a table for ping pong, pool or poker. Go crazy—but don’t forget the absolute essentials for your Edmonton man cave!

There are endless possibilities to creating the man cave of your dreams and the team at Alair Homes Edmonton are always prepared to turn those dreams into reality. Contact our renovation team for a no obligation consultation.