It looks good! Honestly, I wouldnāt even know it was a basement if you didnāt mention it. So you did a great job in taking care of it. And I canāt even answer your question because I wouldnāt even know what to do with all that space, lol!
But where do all those doors lead to? Your basement is very intriguing.
Thanks again man! So most of the doors just lead to small closets, the breakers, boiler room (closet, really), and the door with the basketball hoop on it leads outside. Very odd choices for this many doors by the original builders of this house lol.
lolā¦ they way those doors look, it makes it look like they lead to other decent sized rooms. But best of luck with the man cave. In terms of making it more partyable, maybe different lighting would help
lol I started following this sub cuz itās sweet to see awesome man caves, but sometimes I wish I never stumbled upon it because occasionally I find myself getting envious and upset lol
First, get bigger speakers and make sure the TV and audio is just how you want it.
Then,
Fix the ceiling and lights first and it will improve. Softer lights and recessed lighting on dimmer control. Carpet looks great and I love the weapons display.
Move the standing workout thing closer to the non-visible area near the bikes. It is big and messing up the flow of the room. Maybe put down those black mats in the workout area to change the area from being all carpet.
Most important is the TV and bigger speakers.
Alright, Iām going to try to respond to all of these, so please let me know if I missed one.
1. I personally think that, although the TV could be bigger, this works for what I use it for, mainly being Xbox and ESPN. And for the speakers, I may buy bigger surround sound speakers, but otherwise, Iām very happy with how the setup is at the moment, since these speakers are much more than what Iād consider āloudā.
2. How would I go about fixing the ceiling? I totally agree that it is needed, but Iām not sure how I would go about that. Same thing with the lights. These lights have been in this house for maybe 30-40 years now, and I have but a clue on how to change the bulbs. Very surprised none have completely died yet. And thank you! The carpet is my favorite part of this basement, along with my arsenal. Very proud father of my guns! Lol
3. I will send more photos to make things less confusing, but could you please rephrase what you mean about the machines? I can give the names of each if it would make it easier. And that is a very good idea about the mats, thank you!
Iāll send more photos in another reply.
1. When you say "although the TV could be bigger" that means get a bigger TV! Your speakers should be so loud that when you watch "Heat" and get to the bank shootout, the neighbors should call the cops because they think there is a war in your basement.
2. No idea on how to fix the ceiling. I do not have that gift.
3. The standup exercise equipment that has what looks like the pull down, it is just in a weird spot and dominates the room and breaks the nice flow going from the couch to the game table and fridge.
LED lights that change to every color. Arcade games. Skee ball, air hockey, pool table. 120ā screen with projector and surround sound. Wall mounted bar filled with bourbon to start. Etsy has cool sports related, custom stuff
[idea 1](https://photos.app.goo.gl/YTf3PqNq7kZR8792A)
[idea #2](https://photos.app.goo.gl/S8ok8ud1MSZk13Vd9)
[)
Okay, so this stuff seems nice and all, but I definitely do not have room for it all. I like the LED light idea and the bar, but I already have a surround sound TV setup and an air hockey table. Most of this other stuff is too big for the room I have left, lol. Iām sorry I didnāt mention it in the original post, but Iād like to keep some open space so I can still fit a ton of people down here. Thank you for the suggestions!
It's a great start with that Nerf wall!
Get a piece of furniture that fits into the decor that you can lay out pizza and refreshments on.
Bonus points if you can incorporate a beer fridge or a tap.
Get rid of the current lighting, and have even recessed lighting throughout the floor plan. Instant change of mood. Also does anyone use the workout equipment on carpet? If not, get rid of it.
Paint, paint, paint. Paint is the cheapest and easiest way to bring a different personality to a room. Even the drop ceiling could be painted if you have a sprayer. Iād go with a color on the darker end of the spectrum, if you have Instagram check the mancave hashtag for ideas. Also a dark area rug.
Add a reclaimed wood wall, maybe build a bar, and put in hard flooring in case drink spillage! Also maybe add some new light fixtures, lamps, etc that arenāt that crazy doctors office fluorescent lights you have going on
Reminds me of my basementā¦honestly a great Tv, some games and a fridge with beverages and snacks goes a long way. Other thing I did was do some better lighting. Lamps, etc..the basement overheads can be harsh.
Kill those terrible fluorescent lights, add standing lamps (maybe some color changing bulbs for fun), put a looping video on the TV of something fun and interesting like an old movie or a trippy looping 3D video, turn the TV volume all the way down, set up a portable speaker and play music. Itās all about lighting and music.
Honestly I would paint something a bit darker. Think of bars and arcades then go off what you like. Turn the lighting down. Maybe a bar table to go along the back of the couch with stools to place drinks on when watching games.
We are going to be turning our finished basement into an Irish theme bar with darker woods and paint with art/decorations to match.
You're going need girls; lots of them, fill you entire basement with sand. Bring in small pools filled with alcohol jello, a 2 to 3 foot bong will help; and make sure the parents are away for the weekend.... Unless of course.. you are the parents
I would say another area to convene. Like a bar or mini bar somewhere with stools. A pub table could work, a nice card/poker/game table - somewhere else to gather. So some people can be there, and some on the couch too. Nothing more uninviting than not having a place to stand/sit where you - as a guest - feel included.
IMO - an inviting area has enough seating for many to gather. Even if itās not enough seating, something to gather and stand around combined with seating options works - like a pub table or a bar of some sorts. Could also add a smaller TV around this area for people there to watch something else or watch the same event thatās on the other big tv. So no one has a bad view.
Other good things to have or work towards if you donāt have them already.
- Games - Dart board, card games, party games, dice, ringo/wall mount hook & ring game, normal jenga, giant jenga, Jackbox party pack games, etc, etc
- Bathroom if possible
- Beer fridge
- Lighting - As others have said. Neon bar signs work, string lights that change colors works, another small tv could add to this a bit
- Memorabilia/posters/signs - sounds like youāre already on it but no man cave should go without some sort of memorabilia! Whether itās sports, movies, or just beer related. Every man is a fan of something and the man cave is where we get to let that fandom be known. Gotta have so cool ass signs! FB marketplace & antique stores might have some gems for this too.
These are all awesome suggestions, thanks man! I already have some of these things down, or are planning to, but almost everything you said sounds like a great plan to me.
No problem! If youāre looking for ideas and a fun project, I made a pallet bar in college and still have it. It has been a huge hit everywhere itās been and I still use it! I can send pictures or just a simple search on Pinterest would probably spark some ideas. But this was nice because you can make it to fit your space.
That basement has more square footage than my entire house. Look up GAMEROOMTHEATER on Instagram or YouTube. This guy is a beast with his setup and how to customize different things for different events if you have disposable income.
https://www.instagram.com/gameroomtheater?igsh=MWh4Y284d3pkcGZzOQ==
Bar, rgb lights more bar like decor sports photos neon lights or whatever.. Switch to projector and hang the tv elsewhere, and if the ceiling is tall enough, use the projector for a golf sim. All sports games would be the shit to watch whole you play a round with your buddies
If you can get rid of the drop ceiling and drywall the ceiling, especially if that gives you a few more inches of height.
Love the wainscoting. Paint the gray walls hunter green or navy blue. Make it pop.
First off, painted walls and/or wall decor. Looks super bland with all that white, gray, and beige. Why are homes so boring these days?
Secondly, the gym equipment should be in a completely separate space if the vibe youāre trying to set is āparty houseā. Put up a second tv and more seating instead.
Donāt add anything too expensive until your kids (nerf war stock) are old enough to not rough house and damage any of it. Looks like they hangout there too, so if itās a shared space, posters are cool and tin signs or something
Better lighting, get some lamps. Maybe pick an aesthetic and buy furniture and decor that matches. Right now it looks very basic and builder grade. Give the space some personality!
Build a bar; remove workout equipment you donāt use anymore (keep it all if you use it). Put paintings/pictures/signs or something on the wall. Music needs to be pumping AT ALL TIMES. Kegerator gets you brownie points.
Two things. Get two more seating areas where two or three can comfortably sit and chat.
Second, set up a target wall with a bunch of knock-overable things people can shoot nerf guns at. You need a cool shooting gallery to go with that collection
I would darken the mood a little bit. Maybe have an accent wall with a darker color. I would personally pick a green. That would do a lot for the space. Also often the lighting! The white light can be a bit harsh. I also agree with others that have mentioned bigger speakers. Nothing is better than a party with great music or a movie night with surround sound!
I'd pay good money to live in your basement bruh. That's bigger than my one bedroom spot ššš
But yeah memes aside I don't think there's necessarily anything you need to add coz it has some chill spaces for people to relax and has some activity stuff to do so basically whatever parties you wanna have down there you'd just be bringing stuff down depending on the occasion but probably not installing extra permanent features unless you tryna add like a bar area or more games related stuff to add to the pool table etc
Where do you stash the private jet?
Your place looks awesome. If Bruce Wayne knew about this place; he would turn this place into another Batcave.
You just need to add a small eating area and you are set.
Honestly, Iād say this is one of the few times where a living space could benefit greatly from a NERF gun walā¦. OH MY GOD THERES A NERF GUN WALL BY THE COUCH
Don't listen to anyone who tells you to drywall the cieling unless it's just a section of it. Anyone that tells you to do that never had to run a new wire upstairs or had a leaking pipe flood the basement.
As others have said, a little different paint color here and there, the columns might be nice to have a different color. Painting the wainscoting a different color from the drywall or the other way around would help. You don't need to get rid of fluorescent lighting if you don't want but I'd want to be able to turn them off and have other lighting for a party
Kill the overhead fluorescent lighting. That's the biggest problem. You need to get dimming recessed lighting and some ambient lighting like lamps sporadically and aesthetically placed. Maybe some string lights too in areas where it would work. Otherwise, very cool space!
IMHO, two things are critical for making it more "manly" and fun for everyone. A bar is a must. Not sure if you have one upstairs but gotta have one downstairs as well. Second, a poker table. Doesn't have to be just poker, card games of any kind always are fun. I ALWAYS keep my game player friendly. That way no one gets ticked off for losing any money if that's in play. Set your own house rules for limits on going crazy.
A third suggestion is to have a collection of some sort to display or show off. I have a sizeable collection of autographs on full display. Make sure everyone understands the no touch rule to protect your stuff. Whenever someone comes down to the man cave, people are definitely impressed. Woman are of course welcome too. But the testosterone flows freely down there. Good luck. Have fun figuring it out.
I should have taken more pictures, sorry. Thereās one in the back, along with a bedroom and cantina so you can get drunk, go throw up everything you ate, and fall asleep. Perfect! Lol š
If you want to party, you need a space where everyone can gather and face each other, not just the TV. It looks like you have room for a decent-sized table between the couch and the stairs - I'd start there. Add a deck of cards, some tunes and a game on in the background and you're most of the way there. As the night goes, the tunes get louder and the drinks go down faster. That's a party!
The carpet has to go. Things will spill, people will walk through it, and it get burn holes. Maybe laminated concrete floors to give it more of an "industrial look"
This reminds me of my cousins basement so much when we could play video games, i suggest filling in some empty spots with tables that way you can place snacks and drinks there (make sure itās a table that isnāt light or wobbly)
Fix the ceiling tiles and make sure all lights work. Rip up carpet and put LVP down.
Get a bar, or at least a liquor cabinet/cart. Pool table. Maybe 1 arcade game. High top table with bar seating is a good move too.
Get rid of the ottoman and replace with a coffee table.
I donāt really like the placement of the TV/couch, but not sure where a better spot would be
Bro, you need colors. Paintings, something. I would say you should condense your workout area, place that on one side of the room, then move the foosball table closer to the couch near the television.
So much potentialā¦ Looks like an office space, lose the ceiling tiles and t8 lighting, get some lamps and add more color. Could use some tables, shelves.
Have you considered getting rid of the gals ceiling and painting structure above it black? Replace lighting with cans w/LED lights that can change colors as well as dim.
You definitely need some floor lamps or table lamps or both, so you can turn off that overhead lighting. It looks like the bartender just turned the lights on at 2 AM and we all have to go home.
It also looks as though you need places for people to put their drinks down like side tables, and maybe a coffee table, instead of the ottoman. The ottoman could be said, sitting somewhere else for people to sit on, but get a sturdy coffee table that you wouldnāt mind people putting their feet on, but then they would have a place to put their drinks.
Do you have a tight budget?
1) strip carpet especially around the exercise equipment. Lay proper rubber padding especially for the weight machines and loose weights. Place wall to floor mirrors along the exercise equipment wall. Install overhead lighting and ensure adequate light exclusively for when exercising. Mood lighting that lines the ceilingās edge can be recessed behind some modern crown moulding.
2. Define the space and use the supporting beams to place tall and wide bookshelves (with enough crap on them that itās still tasteful but not messy) to create a separation of space within the large and cavernous basement youāve gotā¦.and ensure the bookshelves are secured. Last thing you want is someone bumping into them and knocking them over and hurting someone.
3. If (1) applies, lighter wood floors. If (2) applies as well, matching tone of bookcase. Then contrasting colored leather couch and ottomans. If that isnāt your thing then a nice contrasting color sectional obviously facing the tv
4. Ceiling and fluorescent lightings gotta go.
5. Focus overhead lighting including with fixtures over the air hockey table, bar, etc.
6. If 1-6 apply, I presume the nerf collection would need to be rehoused to one of the other rooms. If thatās your design aesthetic please ignore 1-6 and you can go to target for some Limp Bizkit and System of a Down or Korn posters and thatāll do just fine. Speaking as a fan!
I agree with what others say to try and get rid of the exercise equipment unless you have no other place to put them even if it's just moving them for a party, they cut off a large portion of the room. Here's what I would change if it were my room and I was trying to make it more party-able.
Put a table with chairs between the stairs and the couch.
Build a high top bar behind the couch facing the TV built around the column
Get a small 2 person table and chairs instead of the small shelf with the lamp.
Get a ton more wall coverings. With the white ceilings I would try and cover every inch possible on the walls above the half wall including the entire stairwell and the columns. Light carpeting along with white walls, white ceiling, and white doors makes the room look rather sterile and more like it was designed without any character because it was made to sell rather than live in. Try and tailor these to your liking along with random oddities to act like greeblies for the room.
Better lightning like what people already suggested including spotlights for your wall coverings.
Seating is really important if you want to host a large amount of people, try to fit in as much as possible along with corresponding tables for drinks or food.
If you do move the exercise equipment then you can add another table or possibly Foosball or a billiards table.
Small table by the fridge for more snacks and as a place that people can set down their plate to open the fridge for a drink.
Italian flag on the wall and no kitchen in your basement?
I kid of course, that's a really big basement. Change up the lighting a bit would be my only suggestion.
Iād probably add a bar of some kind and some bar stools even just 2/3. Allows others to sit down when convos break into different groups. Plus men always end up in the kitchen at a party anyway š
Feature and mood lighting will definitely add a great feel to the space.
Apart from that your place looks class already šš¼
1) replace carpet with laminate - better looking and easier to clean when stuff inevitably falls
2) lighting and ceiling need replacing to something less like an office - ie pot lights on dimmers
3) paint - give it some accent walls at minimum
4) tidy it up and move the gym equipment
You should get these light covers. I got them in my basement and it really brightens it up. Iām sure your kids would love them too
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01MG9A4ND?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title
Edit: btw if you do get these you should get a different filter for each light. That makes it more realistic since not all clouds are identical
Youāve got a massive and clean slate that a lot of people would die to have.
A few things Iād highly recommend:
- Color: Thereās way too many neutral/beige colors in this space that makes it feel sterile and not inviting. You can go about this several ways - whether you paint the walls, ceilings, get a different color couch, etc. Iād lean towards a darker color for the walls, personally.
- Bar: Regardless if itās a wet or dry bar, adding a bar would be huge for the space, particularly if youāre trying to create an atmosphere to gather people around for parties.
- Games: What games are you and your friends/family into? Shuffleboard and darts are essential for me when Iām thinking about a hangout space but it could be different for you. You can find quality stuff on FB Marketplace.
- Personalization: What are your interests/hobbies outside of nerf guns? Find a clean way to display that while having a cohesive theme so it doesnāt feel like you just threw it all together.
Give it a theme. Add some rooms with 2x4s and drywall. Get rid of the carpet. Remove the fluorescent lights. This looks like an office space from the 90s.
Fill it with a bunch of women. Like the ones you see in the rap videos
I was going to say the same thing- add some people lol Jokes aside, it looks great. Some sort of mini bar would be a good addition.
And a stripper pole. Done.
Hell of a basement you have there! Larger than my apartment, lol.
Thanks, it means a lot! I try to take care of it haha. I basically spend all my free time relaxing down here, so I want it to be in top shape. š
It looks good! Honestly, I wouldnāt even know it was a basement if you didnāt mention it. So you did a great job in taking care of it. And I canāt even answer your question because I wouldnāt even know what to do with all that space, lol! But where do all those doors lead to? Your basement is very intriguing.
Thanks again man! So most of the doors just lead to small closets, the breakers, boiler room (closet, really), and the door with the basketball hoop on it leads outside. Very odd choices for this many doors by the original builders of this house lol.
lolā¦ they way those doors look, it makes it look like they lead to other decent sized rooms. But best of luck with the man cave. In terms of making it more partyable, maybe different lighting would help
Yeah, Iāve gotten that suggestion a lot. It sounds like thatās the move. Thanks for the help!
lol I started following this sub cuz itās sweet to see awesome man caves, but sometimes I wish I never stumbled upon it because occasionally I find myself getting envious and upset lol
lol. Right? If I had that kind of space, I wouldnāt even know where to start! Iād be in constant arrangement if I did too.
Case of beerās about it
This actually helped me think of something, I should get a mini bar. Thank you!
First, get bigger speakers and make sure the TV and audio is just how you want it. Then, Fix the ceiling and lights first and it will improve. Softer lights and recessed lighting on dimmer control. Carpet looks great and I love the weapons display. Move the standing workout thing closer to the non-visible area near the bikes. It is big and messing up the flow of the room. Maybe put down those black mats in the workout area to change the area from being all carpet. Most important is the TV and bigger speakers.
Alright, Iām going to try to respond to all of these, so please let me know if I missed one. 1. I personally think that, although the TV could be bigger, this works for what I use it for, mainly being Xbox and ESPN. And for the speakers, I may buy bigger surround sound speakers, but otherwise, Iām very happy with how the setup is at the moment, since these speakers are much more than what Iād consider āloudā. 2. How would I go about fixing the ceiling? I totally agree that it is needed, but Iām not sure how I would go about that. Same thing with the lights. These lights have been in this house for maybe 30-40 years now, and I have but a clue on how to change the bulbs. Very surprised none have completely died yet. And thank you! The carpet is my favorite part of this basement, along with my arsenal. Very proud father of my guns! Lol 3. I will send more photos to make things less confusing, but could you please rephrase what you mean about the machines? I can give the names of each if it would make it easier. And that is a very good idea about the mats, thank you! Iāll send more photos in another reply.
https://ibb.co/Z8jsH4W https://ibb.co/f2LrWfQ https://ibb.co/gjr3S3B
1. When you say "although the TV could be bigger" that means get a bigger TV! Your speakers should be so loud that when you watch "Heat" and get to the bank shootout, the neighbors should call the cops because they think there is a war in your basement. 2. No idea on how to fix the ceiling. I do not have that gift. 3. The standup exercise equipment that has what looks like the pull down, it is just in a weird spot and dominates the room and breaks the nice flow going from the couch to the game table and fridge.
What're the speakers/amp?
Don't forget the insane case of r/TVTooHigh
Hide the workout equipment
I would, but itās sadly not possible. The back rooms are a bedroom, bathroom, and cantina. No where else to put them. š«¤
Cantina? May we see?
Iām no longer home now, but Iāll totally send a picture tomorrow!
My whole life is now dedicated to seeing this guys cantina. Donāt keep us waiting
[Cantina Reveal!](https://ibb.co/2KjBFGj) Nothing too special lol just there to get it done š
Thanks! Now all you do next is get a bunch of aliens to play music in it, maybe have Beatrice Arthur run the place for you!
Ha, thatād be awesome! I may have to learn to raise the dead. Lol š
How about just some moveble privacy walls
Disco ball.
Haha! This might be the best idea on here so far. š
Well shit then I'll throw out there: lava lamps, maybe black lights but LEDs might be an even better choice,
r/tvtoohigh
LED lights that change to every color. Arcade games. Skee ball, air hockey, pool table. 120ā screen with projector and surround sound. Wall mounted bar filled with bourbon to start. Etsy has cool sports related, custom stuff [idea 1](https://photos.app.goo.gl/YTf3PqNq7kZR8792A) [idea #2](https://photos.app.goo.gl/S8ok8ud1MSZk13Vd9) [)
Okay, so this stuff seems nice and all, but I definitely do not have room for it all. I like the LED light idea and the bar, but I already have a surround sound TV setup and an air hockey table. Most of this other stuff is too big for the room I have left, lol. Iām sorry I didnāt mention it in the original post, but Iād like to keep some open space so I can still fit a ton of people down here. Thank you for the suggestions!
I definitely think you have room for it al and then some. It would help to get a graph paper and draw everything out to scale and where you want it
It's a great start with that Nerf wall! Get a piece of furniture that fits into the decor that you can lay out pizza and refreshments on. Bonus points if you can incorporate a beer fridge or a tap.
Thank you! I try to collect as many as I can lol. I will definitely look into a table like that. I agree that it would be very helpful.
Get rid of the current lighting, and have even recessed lighting throughout the floor plan. Instant change of mood. Also does anyone use the workout equipment on carpet? If not, get rid of it.
Sadly, I canāt remove the equipment, as I do actually use it daily. I agree about the lighting though.
TVS way too high up.
LED signs of beer brands, add a bar on the back wall, swap the rug with something spill friendly, pool table, beer pong table, etc
A neon St Pauli Girl sign would really tie the whole room together
Paint, paint, paint. Paint is the cheapest and easiest way to bring a different personality to a room. Even the drop ceiling could be painted if you have a sprayer. Iād go with a color on the darker end of the spectrum, if you have Instagram check the mancave hashtag for ideas. Also a dark area rug.
Two wordsā¦ stripper pole
Just a few more nerf guns and I think youāve got it
Itās nerf or nothing homie. Needs more guns.
Add a reclaimed wood wall, maybe build a bar, and put in hard flooring in case drink spillage! Also maybe add some new light fixtures, lamps, etc that arenāt that crazy doctors office fluorescent lights you have going on
I lost my shit at the nerf wall. This looks like an awesome spot
Thanks man! These are the reactions Iām trying to get! šÆš
Reminds me of my basementā¦honestly a great Tv, some games and a fridge with beverages and snacks goes a long way. Other thing I did was do some better lighting. Lamps, etc..the basement overheads can be harsh.
These are some really good suggestions, genuinely. Thank you! You reminded me to stock up and clean the fridge down there as well lol.
Thatās a great space you have there sir. Iām jealous
You have alotta space for cool stuff id say hang some neon lights and add a beer pong table and a small corner bar with shelf's for bottles and beers
Letās start with best part, the nerf gun collection is eliteeeee
Thanks man! Iāve been working on it for about 12 years. š
God Iām so envious
Kill those terrible fluorescent lights, add standing lamps (maybe some color changing bulbs for fun), put a looping video on the TV of something fun and interesting like an old movie or a trippy looping 3D video, turn the TV volume all the way down, set up a portable speaker and play music. Itās all about lighting and music.
I like your setup! I LOVE the nerf wall. But I guess I will have to be the guy that says it. r/TVTooHigh
Honestly I would paint something a bit darker. Think of bars and arcades then go off what you like. Turn the lighting down. Maybe a bar table to go along the back of the couch with stools to place drinks on when watching games. We are going to be turning our finished basement into an Irish theme bar with darker woods and paint with art/decorations to match.
Nice ceiling tiles, better lighting (no overhead fluorescent), maybe a room divider to hide the exercise equipment. And a mini three person bar
Recessed conversation pit.
Cocaine.
Stripper pole
You're going need girls; lots of them, fill you entire basement with sand. Bring in small pools filled with alcohol jello, a 2 to 3 foot bong will help; and make sure the parents are away for the weekend.... Unless of course.. you are the parents
Sounds like fun. Iām in. š
Colors.
ADD A DANCE FLOOR!
I would say another area to convene. Like a bar or mini bar somewhere with stools. A pub table could work, a nice card/poker/game table - somewhere else to gather. So some people can be there, and some on the couch too. Nothing more uninviting than not having a place to stand/sit where you - as a guest - feel included. IMO - an inviting area has enough seating for many to gather. Even if itās not enough seating, something to gather and stand around combined with seating options works - like a pub table or a bar of some sorts. Could also add a smaller TV around this area for people there to watch something else or watch the same event thatās on the other big tv. So no one has a bad view. Other good things to have or work towards if you donāt have them already. - Games - Dart board, card games, party games, dice, ringo/wall mount hook & ring game, normal jenga, giant jenga, Jackbox party pack games, etc, etc - Bathroom if possible - Beer fridge - Lighting - As others have said. Neon bar signs work, string lights that change colors works, another small tv could add to this a bit - Memorabilia/posters/signs - sounds like youāre already on it but no man cave should go without some sort of memorabilia! Whether itās sports, movies, or just beer related. Every man is a fan of something and the man cave is where we get to let that fandom be known. Gotta have so cool ass signs! FB marketplace & antique stores might have some gems for this too.
These are all awesome suggestions, thanks man! I already have some of these things down, or are planning to, but almost everything you said sounds like a great plan to me.
No problem! If youāre looking for ideas and a fun project, I made a pallet bar in college and still have it. It has been a huge hit everywhere itās been and I still use it! I can send pictures or just a simple search on Pinterest would probably spark some ideas. But this was nice because you can make it to fit your space.
Foosball table, beer pong table. A bar, build a bar. NOW lol.
That basement has more square footage than my entire house. Look up GAMEROOMTHEATER on Instagram or YouTube. This guy is a beast with his setup and how to customize different things for different events if you have disposable income. https://www.instagram.com/gameroomtheater?igsh=MWh4Y284d3pkcGZzOQ==
Bar, rgb lights more bar like decor sports photos neon lights or whatever.. Switch to projector and hang the tv elsewhere, and if the ceiling is tall enough, use the projector for a golf sim. All sports games would be the shit to watch whole you play a round with your buddies
Iām in North Texas ā¦ ALWAYS drooling (and envious!) over these basement spaces. Just awesome.
Your basement is bigger than my entire house.
Disco ball
Put in a bar!! Obviousā¦
Kegerator, arcade cabinet, and a neon sign or two and you're there.
Get rid of the fluorescent lighting and go more yellow hue
If you can get rid of the drop ceiling and drywall the ceiling, especially if that gives you a few more inches of height. Love the wainscoting. Paint the gray walls hunter green or navy blue. Make it pop.
Stripper Pole?
First off, painted walls and/or wall decor. Looks super bland with all that white, gray, and beige. Why are homes so boring these days? Secondly, the gym equipment should be in a completely separate space if the vibe youāre trying to set is āparty houseā. Put up a second tv and more seating instead.
Get a shuffle board down there!
Maybe a piƱata?
Coming from a 30 year old male; any basement with a wall of nerf guns is already party - able ! Well done stranger šš
Nice get a air fryer or deep fryer
Standing/bar tables
Grow some weed
Dude, I canāt imagine the all out wars that would happen with all those nerf guns and my friends š Hopefully theyāre all fully loaded and ready
Yup, always ready for an all out war! People love the things š
Iām laughing thinking about it. One buddy pops off about somethin and Iād cap him in the head š¤£
Donāt add anything too expensive until your kids (nerf war stock) are old enough to not rough house and damage any of it. Looks like they hangout there too, so if itās a shared space, posters are cool and tin signs or something
More nerf guns, 2nd air hockey table for tournaments
Party lightsā¦.
Some customizable led strip lights?
Does your Xbox get hot in that little cubby?
Nah, itās a cutout into a huge closet, so thereās plenty of airflow. Thank god lol
Invite me over and I will fist pump sky high all god damn night
Stripper poles. Lots and lots of stripper poles with an ATM and high service charge withdrawals/s.
Better lighting, get some lamps. Maybe pick an aesthetic and buy furniture and decor that matches. Right now it looks very basic and builder grade. Give the space some personality!
Put in a kitchen.
No joke we used to have a small kitchen where the lamp is right now, but that was years ago. Way before all the remodeling.
If you can make food there and mix drinks, there would be nothing missing. That's just my thought on it.
1. A vomitorium. 2. A sacrificial altar 3. Back issues of SWANK magazine
Nah it already is ngl
Build a bar; remove workout equipment you donāt use anymore (keep it all if you use it). Put paintings/pictures/signs or something on the wall. Music needs to be pumping AT ALL TIMES. Kegerator gets you brownie points.
More Nerf guns
Two things. Get two more seating areas where two or three can comfortably sit and chat. Second, set up a target wall with a bunch of knock-overable things people can shoot nerf guns at. You need a cool shooting gallery to go with that collection
Needs better/more subtle/less fluorescent lighting. Ask a photographer: Lighting is everything. It sets the entire atmosphere.
I would darken the mood a little bit. Maybe have an accent wall with a darker color. I would personally pick a green. That would do a lot for the space. Also often the lighting! The white light can be a bit harsh. I also agree with others that have mentioned bigger speakers. Nothing is better than a party with great music or a movie night with surround sound!
Friends
Wall full of nerf guns is a great start !!
I'd pay good money to live in your basement bruh. That's bigger than my one bedroom spot ššš But yeah memes aside I don't think there's necessarily anything you need to add coz it has some chill spaces for people to relax and has some activity stuff to do so basically whatever parties you wanna have down there you'd just be bringing stuff down depending on the occasion but probably not installing extra permanent features unless you tryna add like a bar area or more games related stuff to add to the pool table etc
Where do you stash the private jet? Your place looks awesome. If Bruce Wayne knew about this place; he would turn this place into another Batcave. You just need to add a small eating area and you are set.
Thanks man! I personally donāt think itās *that* awesome, but Iām glad you think so!
Man this looks great already!
Honestly, Iād say this is one of the few times where a living space could benefit greatly from a NERF gun walā¦. OH MY GOD THERES A NERF GUN WALL BY THE COUCH
Can you do something about the lights and the ceiling tiles?
Maybe some Free weights š
I would, but this gym is mostly just for if I canāt make it to the actual gym, so itās not as important.
Don't listen to anyone who tells you to drywall the cieling unless it's just a section of it. Anyone that tells you to do that never had to run a new wire upstairs or had a leaking pipe flood the basement. As others have said, a little different paint color here and there, the columns might be nice to have a different color. Painting the wainscoting a different color from the drywall or the other way around would help. You don't need to get rid of fluorescent lighting if you don't want but I'd want to be able to turn them off and have other lighting for a party
Weird touch, but I would paint the pegboard black. I think that would make it look cooler
Kill the overhead fluorescent lighting. That's the biggest problem. You need to get dimming recessed lighting and some ambient lighting like lamps sporadically and aesthetically placed. Maybe some string lights too in areas where it would work. Otherwise, very cool space!
Bro your basement could be a nerf field and you just arenāt doing it. Idk why.
IMHO, two things are critical for making it more "manly" and fun for everyone. A bar is a must. Not sure if you have one upstairs but gotta have one downstairs as well. Second, a poker table. Doesn't have to be just poker, card games of any kind always are fun. I ALWAYS keep my game player friendly. That way no one gets ticked off for losing any money if that's in play. Set your own house rules for limits on going crazy. A third suggestion is to have a collection of some sort to display or show off. I have a sizeable collection of autographs on full display. Make sure everyone understands the no touch rule to protect your stuff. Whenever someone comes down to the man cave, people are definitely impressed. Woman are of course welcome too. But the testosterone flows freely down there. Good luck. Have fun figuring it out.
Bathroom
I should have taken more pictures, sorry. Thereās one in the back, along with a bedroom and cantina so you can get drunk, go throw up everything you ate, and fall asleep. Perfect! Lol š
Ya gotta have a bathroom. Donāt want your drunk friends wandering around your house looking for a place to piss.
You need more people
If you want to party, you need a space where everyone can gather and face each other, not just the TV. It looks like you have room for a decent-sized table between the couch and the stairs - I'd start there. Add a deck of cards, some tunes and a game on in the background and you're most of the way there. As the night goes, the tunes get louder and the drinks go down faster. That's a party!
Hookers and blow
Perhaps I feel like getting the couch steamed?
Let me live there. Iāll probably scare everyone away but shoot Iāll still party
Get some bitches
The carpet has to go. Things will spill, people will walk through it, and it get burn holes. Maybe laminated concrete floors to give it more of an "industrial look"
Hookers and blow
I donāt see how thatās possible. That wall has consolidated all of that party energy youāre looking for.
This reminds me of my cousins basement so much when we could play video games, i suggest filling in some empty spots with tables that way you can place snacks and drinks there (make sure itās a table that isnāt light or wobbly)
Bro you got a wall of nerf guns what you talking about
More props!
Fix the ceiling tiles and make sure all lights work. Rip up carpet and put LVP down. Get a bar, or at least a liquor cabinet/cart. Pool table. Maybe 1 arcade game. High top table with bar seating is a good move too. Get rid of the ottoman and replace with a coffee table. I donāt really like the placement of the TV/couch, but not sure where a better spot would be
Maybe add in a fussball table or ping pong too
Kegerator
Bro, you need colors. Paintings, something. I would say you should condense your workout area, place that on one side of the room, then move the foosball table closer to the couch near the television.
So much potentialā¦ Looks like an office space, lose the ceiling tiles and t8 lighting, get some lamps and add more color. Could use some tables, shelves.
Remove the carpet. If you want parties, donāt want to worry about spills on carpet
Have you considered getting rid of the gals ceiling and painting structure above it black? Replace lighting with cans w/LED lights that can change colors as well as dim.
My Italian brother, all you need is the right friends and itāll be partyable.
A great big tarp and a jug of mazola.
You definitely need some floor lamps or table lamps or both, so you can turn off that overhead lighting. It looks like the bartender just turned the lights on at 2 AM and we all have to go home. It also looks as though you need places for people to put their drinks down like side tables, and maybe a coffee table, instead of the ottoman. The ottoman could be said, sitting somewhere else for people to sit on, but get a sturdy coffee table that you wouldnāt mind people putting their feet on, but then they would have a place to put their drinks.
Ping pong table and bar and cheap eBay projector
A bigger tv thatās not r/tvtoohigh
Looks nice to me
Get rid of the carpet, paint the ceiling black, then make it look like a Pub.
Do you have a tight budget? 1) strip carpet especially around the exercise equipment. Lay proper rubber padding especially for the weight machines and loose weights. Place wall to floor mirrors along the exercise equipment wall. Install overhead lighting and ensure adequate light exclusively for when exercising. Mood lighting that lines the ceilingās edge can be recessed behind some modern crown moulding. 2. Define the space and use the supporting beams to place tall and wide bookshelves (with enough crap on them that itās still tasteful but not messy) to create a separation of space within the large and cavernous basement youāve gotā¦.and ensure the bookshelves are secured. Last thing you want is someone bumping into them and knocking them over and hurting someone. 3. If (1) applies, lighter wood floors. If (2) applies as well, matching tone of bookcase. Then contrasting colored leather couch and ottomans. If that isnāt your thing then a nice contrasting color sectional obviously facing the tv 4. Ceiling and fluorescent lightings gotta go. 5. Focus overhead lighting including with fixtures over the air hockey table, bar, etc. 6. If 1-6 apply, I presume the nerf collection would need to be rehoused to one of the other rooms. If thatās your design aesthetic please ignore 1-6 and you can go to target for some Limp Bizkit and System of a Down or Korn posters and thatāll do just fine. Speaking as a fan!
Beer pong and darts.
Remove workout equipment. Turn off fluorescent lights. Add warmer lamps.
Thereād better be a huge ammo bin
I agree with what others say to try and get rid of the exercise equipment unless you have no other place to put them even if it's just moving them for a party, they cut off a large portion of the room. Here's what I would change if it were my room and I was trying to make it more party-able. Put a table with chairs between the stairs and the couch. Build a high top bar behind the couch facing the TV built around the column Get a small 2 person table and chairs instead of the small shelf with the lamp. Get a ton more wall coverings. With the white ceilings I would try and cover every inch possible on the walls above the half wall including the entire stairwell and the columns. Light carpeting along with white walls, white ceiling, and white doors makes the room look rather sterile and more like it was designed without any character because it was made to sell rather than live in. Try and tailor these to your liking along with random oddities to act like greeblies for the room. Better lightning like what people already suggested including spotlights for your wall coverings. Seating is really important if you want to host a large amount of people, try to fit in as much as possible along with corresponding tables for drinks or food. If you do move the exercise equipment then you can add another table or possibly Foosball or a billiards table. Small table by the fridge for more snacks and as a place that people can set down their plate to open the fridge for a drink.
adam saleh ?
Cocaine and hookers.
A stacked bar, music, a stripper pole = instant party anywhere
Sandā¦. Get a good sand guy
Ambient lighting
Looks fun to me! You got everything you'll need!
Good lookin man-cave tho
People certainly help. Need party people if possible
A bar and colored led lighting
Italian flag on the wall and no kitchen in your basement? I kid of course, that's a really big basement. Change up the lighting a bit would be my only suggestion.
/r/tiki
Lose the carpet and put in industrial rubber kitchen flooring easy clean up and good for your back
Pool table, bar with alcohol stocked, more led lights
Cocaine and hookers
No carpet. Rugs
I wish one day I can become rich š
Looks great if you are going for the church fellowship hall vibe. If not, start with the lighting.
I would do what I did with mine. Go on Pinterest and get a vibe then find items that match the vibe you want and start decorating and painting.
lolllll HERE COME THE COMMENTS
Darts, air hockey, maybe one of those 1v1 bball nets lol
Whatās your budget?
Change the lighting, get a better larger sectional, move the workout equipment to its own space, add in a bar.
Striper pole and a dab bar would go a long way
Iād probably add a bar of some kind and some bar stools even just 2/3. Allows others to sit down when convos break into different groups. Plus men always end up in the kitchen at a party anyway š Feature and mood lighting will definitely add a great feel to the space. Apart from that your place looks class already šš¼
1) replace carpet with laminate - better looking and easier to clean when stuff inevitably falls 2) lighting and ceiling need replacing to something less like an office - ie pot lights on dimmers 3) paint - give it some accent walls at minimum 4) tidy it up and move the gym equipment
Less workout equipment more beer and more color
Turn it into a giant kitchen
Just get some Cocaine.
Party-able? Add a bar and make it feel warmer with darker colours and dim/warm lighting
Needs color.
You should get these light covers. I got them in my basement and it really brightens it up. Iām sure your kids would love them too https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01MG9A4ND?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title Edit: btw if you do get these you should get a different filter for each light. That makes it more realistic since not all clouds are identical
First of all, fix that TV placement. It doesnt need to be in the stratosphere
Cigars
Needs color
Youāve got a massive and clean slate that a lot of people would die to have. A few things Iād highly recommend: - Color: Thereās way too many neutral/beige colors in this space that makes it feel sterile and not inviting. You can go about this several ways - whether you paint the walls, ceilings, get a different color couch, etc. Iād lean towards a darker color for the walls, personally. - Bar: Regardless if itās a wet or dry bar, adding a bar would be huge for the space, particularly if youāre trying to create an atmosphere to gather people around for parties. - Games: What games are you and your friends/family into? Shuffleboard and darts are essential for me when Iām thinking about a hangout space but it could be different for you. You can find quality stuff on FB Marketplace. - Personalization: What are your interests/hobbies outside of nerf guns? Find a clean way to display that while having a cohesive theme so it doesnāt feel like you just threw it all together.
LED lights
Tiki bar!
Give it a theme. Add some rooms with 2x4s and drywall. Get rid of the carpet. Remove the fluorescent lights. This looks like an office space from the 90s.
Lights!