We are entering a new era of male luxury, some might say. In the two years of on-and-off isolation and social distancing, some men are finding ways to reimagine their free time from the comfort of their homes, rather than in a bar, gym, or concert hall.
Men are finding spaces in homes for hobbies or activities in upscaled ways. For instance, Tori Ashmore says that Vivace Designs built a “hidden closet for our client’s gun safe and tools” inside of a music room.
“Basements are trendy right now,” says , owner of Vivace Designs. “We’ve seen a lot more people interested in their basements and how they can provide additional entertainment space within their homes in the last couple of years.” And it's not too surprising when you think about it. After all, it is more common to have kitchens, master bedrooms, or entryways on the ground level. Basements, on the other hand, are often designated for storage or relaxation.
And it doesn't stop there. Fitness centers and gyms have long been integrating entertainment into workout environments. However, now you can find prestigious fitness equipment with entertainment accommodations inside everyday homes. “Many people want the advantage of controlling the climate and utilizing diversion through TV or music,” says Phil Verstraete, president of Premier Fitness Source, based here. “We have helped our clients design state-of-the-art home gyms that have included seamless rolled rubber flooring, strength training equipment, and even entertainment systems.” The capabilities of such a home workout system are versatile. "A user can now receive excellent, personalized workout instruction and/or surf the internet, check emails, watch Netflix, or even pair their phone or tablet to the [fitness equipment] console.”
Of course, the remodels are not only for men. Ryan Williams, the owner of Artisan Design Studio, recalls her mindset during a recent basement remodel. “I tend to love more masculine spaces, so it definitely leans that direction.” But, she says, this newly upgraded hangout spot is for everyone in the house to use. "The whole family will definitely enjoy this space," Ryan says. "The 'kids' are high school and college-aged, so we wanted it to be a space they could enjoy with their friends, but that their parents could use to entertain adults as well."
Ashmore echoes this sentiment. "[Vivace Design] recently completed an extensive basement renovation. The clients wanted a space where they could entertain and have their kids bring friends over and not be in the way of everyone else." She adds that they wanted to create something that catered to all parties individually while staying appealing to everyone. "Our favorite was probably the music room, which was definitely inspired by the husband’s college rock band days. But it was designed with the wife in mind as well." She explains, "It’s masculine, but warm and comfy. We made sure that the space had plenty of soft furnishings to soften some of the harder elements like the plaster fireplace."
Long live the man cave!