Turn That Cluttered Basement into a Man Cave with Acceptable Storage in Ottawa

Got a basement that’s just brimming with stuff? Why not give yourself an incentive to clean it out? Just think of all the possibilities you could turn into reality, just by clearing out the basement. In this month’s Acceptable Storage blog, we’ll talk about how to turn your basement into a man cave.

What is a Man Cave, Anyway? And is It Right for Your House?

Man caves are the modern, elevated version of a den, finished basement or repurposed garage, complete with entertainment options and usually decked out in a sports or masculine theme. Not to be sexist, though. Anyone can enjoy a man cave, after all. For the men out there, this could be a dream come true. You can have your own private (or semi-private) space, which means that the “other half” can have her space as well. Depending on the size of your basement and the configuration of your home, you may find that splitting the basement space works well; or perhaps having hubby downstairs and wifey with her own space (yoga, art studio, etc.) upstairs. Garages are also a possibility. And of course, we can throw the home office into the mix. We’ll visit all of these. Suffice it to say, the man cave isn’t just a “for him” proposition, but rather one that’s “win-win.”

First Step: Cleaning, Sorting, Giving, Storing

The first step(s) to converting a basement or other space into a man cave involving cleaning and organizing. Check out some of our earlier articles on decluttering, organizing space, and planning steps for cleaning and organizing. In short, you might have to make some decisions about what’s currently occupying your basement. Chances are, however, this is probably a good thing, as you probably have items that you haven’t used in a while. A good rule of thumb, as put forward by many, is that if you haven’t used something in a year or more, it’s time for it to find a new home. At the very least, ask yourself why this is here. How does this item justify the space it occupies – space that could otherwise be used for a much more enjoyable purpose. Author and consultant Marie Kondo, in her trademarked “KonMari” method, says that every object we own should bring us joy.

Clearly some objects – like a 60-inch 4K television, fully stocked bar, or sectional sofa with reclining seats and a mini-fridge – are going to bring more joy than others. But if you’ve got boxes of stuff from years and eras gone by (“was Chretien or Mulroney still PM when this tux fit?”), your best bet might be the donation bin or curbside pickup. Other things may very well give you joy – or at least indirectly do so, by accomplishing tasks that lead to joy – but aren’t something you use very often. Those are prime candidates for putting into a storage unit. For the cost of a cup of coffee per day, you can move out a whole host of items that, while you’re not ready or able to part with, can free up space in your home for other purposes. Soon enough, you’ll have a space that’s cleared out – just needs a cleaning and you’re good to go… onto the next step.

Now That The Space is Ready, It’s Time to Design and Build Your Man Cave!

Okay, so you’ve got the basement (or other space) cleared out and cleaned up. You’ve given away boxes of stuff, and put other items into your storage space. Now what? Now’s the best part! You’re looking at square footage of potential. Which way would you like to take this space? Here are but a few of many options:

Sports Bar

This is the proverbial man cave of the decade. A big screen for watching games on TV, of course, complemented by a bar (with a built-in keg!), sports posters and pennants, helmets, balls, and other gear and memorabilia. Go with the colours of your favourite team, and invite your friends over for endless weekend fun.

 

Home Theatre

The whole family can enjoy the movies at home. Set up a large-screen television, and go with either sofa and loveseat, sectional sofa, or install theatre-style seating.

Gaming Centre

Talking about the video variety here. Set it up similar to the home theatre, with the latest in video games, screens and sound. Seating is sleek, and lighting is low.

Hip, Chic Lounge

More emphasis on audio and lighting for this one, as well as stylish, minimalistic décor.

Poker, Darts & Billiards

This can be combined with the sports bar theme, but with a more active edge to it. You can build in a small strip of putting green for golfers, too.

Library and Leather

Perhaps the most “mature” and “refined” of the options. You can turn the basement or den into a retreat for literary and academic types. Fill the walls with bookshelves. Bring in a leather sofa, or a couple of leather chairs – the wingback variety would do well here.

Wine Cellar and Bar

Part of your basement can be dedicated to storing and aging wine! The rest, well that’s for imbibing it!!

Second Kitchen and Mini-Bistro

Why not build in an upgraded kitchen in your basement, with restaurant-style seating and a small, stylish lounge. The possibilities are endless.

Comfy, Cozy, Lazy Room

You don’t have to go all out to create a comfortable space that you can enjoy for years. Put in a TV, entertainment centre, comfy seating and an accent rug or new flooring, and you’re good to go.

If Not the Basement, Where?

Before we conclude, let’s not forget the other rooms and spaces in the house. If your garage, for example, is cluttered, you can give it the same clean-out, then repurpose the space for indoor use. You might need to install a space heater and some insulation –a home store like RONA or Home Depot could be a good place to consult. Other rooms might be calling out for change. Turn that empty second or third bedroom into a den, yoga room or art studio! Attics are another space that tends to get cluttered with “stuff,” but many attics are perfectly suitable for man caves or other utilization.

Options for Storage in Ottawa – at Acceptable Storage

Once you’ve got that basement, garage and/or other room(s) cleared out, you’ll want some storage space for the items you need down the road (but not just now). That’s where Acceptable Storage in Ottawa comes in. We’ve got storage units of varying size, configuration and price. Give us a call or use our contact form so that we can discuss options. And if you’re building (or have built) a man cave or other space, let us know, we’d love to hear about it!