Interior designers sometimes have to mediate differences in taste between clients on the same project. Often that means a couple disagreeing on one design element or a whole plan. Is the room going to be a guest bedroom or an exercise room? Do we put a huge television over the fireplace, or try to hide it away (or banish it altogether)? In my case, there was a disagreement with my husband over two leopard print pillows I desperately wanted. (I got the pillows, but he has a giant TV over the fireplace.)

Without indulging stereotypes too greatly, some men want a “man cave,” or a place where they can go with their friends to relax, play poker, drink, snack, watch sports, play video games, etc. (This post is focusing on the archtypical “man cave” but I realize many women want similar “caves” and not all men want a “man cave” as described. Don’t @ me.)

What do you picture when you think of a “man cave?”

A lot of ladies would not appreciate this aesthetic (although some would). A little less knotty pine and moose, maybe? Huge brown leather recliners with cupholders are not everyone’s cup of tea. So maybe let’s find a compromise everyone can live with.
I propose a man cave that is more “cool lounge” than Elk Lounge. A few suggestions:

You don’t need huge bloated furniture to feel comfortable. Much of the “comfort” factor in seating lies in the pitch of the seat (a.k.a. the angle of the seat back), back height and seat depth. As opposed to how much Dacron can be stuffed into an animal carcass.

Examples? I thought you’d never ask. (And I don’t get compensated for these suggestions, in order to remain unbiased.)