Perhaps you’ve decided that your room needs a little more style, or that the man-cave could use a makeover. Maybe you feel your home could use some masculine elements or be more gender neutral; maybe you just love the look. Whatever your reasons, here are some simple ways you can add a masculine touch to any room with some clever styling tips.
Add timber
Timber is a great natural material that can be used in a variety of interior design themes. Timber is strong, robust and is versatile enough to look soft and gentle or strong and striking, depending on your scheme. Try incorporating a timber sideboard or piece of furniture in a tone that suits your existing décor, such as light, unfinished raw timbers or dark, polished hardwoods into the room. Looking to really spice things up? Try a timber feature wall for added texture.
Add Leather
Leather is a hard-wearing material strong enough to withstand children, pets and years of use, making a leather sofa or armchair not only an investment piece, but a furniture item that can give off a masculine vibe in the right setting. If you live in a hot climate leather might not be the best option when it comes to seating. In this case try adding leather touches by way or a leather cushions, a faux-animal hide for the floor or a leather-topped coffee or side table.
Add Metal
Stainless steel, powder-coated steel and other metallic finishes are a great way to add an industrial edge to any room. Consider chairs and coffee tables with steel support structures, and lamps or lighting fixtures made from metal or with metallic finishes. If you’re looking to achieve an ultra-modern contemporary look, try chrome.
Add Colour
Obviously, if you’re looking to add a masculine touch to a room one of the best ways to do this is by sticking to a totally neutral palette of black, white, beige, cream or navy and work individual favourite colours into it where you can. However, if you’re looking to incorporate a broader range of colours into the scheme try greens, reds, blues, or oranges in muted shades. This way the colour doesn’t feel too light, bright, loud or over the top.
Add personal touches
For communal areas, pick an element that would make the space you are decorating feel welcoming for every member of the family. For tech-heads try a digital station where chargers can be found and devices stored. Movie buffs might appreciate a dedicated bookshelf for a movie library, and music fans might like a record player or high -performance speaker. If you’re decorating a bedroom for one person, think about what their personal likes are and make it a feature of their room, such as a large pop-art print above their bed, or a dedicated area for pop-culture collectibles.
This article originally appeared on Better Homes & Gardens
