Room of the Day: California Dreamin’ Meets Ultimate Man Cave
An indoor-outdoor space in Southern California is transformed into an amazing retreat for family and friends
Jennifer Quail
April 4, 2016
Houzz Contributor. Design writer, visual merchandiser and stylist. More than a decade of writing for print and online design publications has led to practical design, decoration and styling work. The combination keeps every day creative and colorful.
Houzz Contributor. Design writer, visual merchandiser and stylist. More than a decade... More
While working on a complete home renovation with interior designer Lori Dennis, homeowners Mike and Euni Twyman decided they wanted a space dedicated to relaxing, having fun and enjoying time with family and friends. The idea was for a VIP lounge space that would offer entertainment and amenities for all ages. The solution came in the form of an underused open-air pool cabana that Dennis would transform into an indoor-outdoor, all-weather retreat.
Before Photo
BEFORE: Dennis describes the structure they began with as “a basic pool cabana with a bathroom and open walls.” The homeowners knew the open-air space would get dirty from wind and rain, so if they wanted to have comfortable indoor-style furnishings, they’d have to protect the interiors somehow.
AFTER: Instead of closing in the space entirely, Dennis introduced bifold doors on two sides that allow the space to be completely open or closed on a whim. “During the day, it’s an opportunity to have a day-club vibe and, during the night, it transforms into a full-on man cave,” she says.
Brown leather seating: Four Hands; ceiling fan: VDRC.com
Brown leather seating: Four Hands; ceiling fan: VDRC.com
Dennis worked with SoCal Contractor on the overall construction and with Lion Windows and Doors for the windows and new bifold doors. “We created a space the entire family and friends can use during events, and also a special place if we wanted to enjoy a cigar and some wine,” Mike Twyman says. “We also liked the idea of it being separate from the house so if the crowd gets loud, we won’t wake the kids.”
To achieve the rich, dark mood that the homeowners desired, Dennis painted the walls Midnight Blue by Benjamin Moore and the ceiling in the supremely dark Bean Soup, also by Benjamin Moore. Deep leather seating forms a conversation area, while chevron-patterned flooring creates sophisticated drama.
The truly cave-like feel offers a terrific contrast to the beautiful landscaping and pool area just beyond its boundaries.
Flooring: TileBar
The truly cave-like feel offers a terrific contrast to the beautiful landscaping and pool area just beyond its boundaries.
Flooring: TileBar
Upholstered chairs and a custom-designed poker table complement the room’s palette.
Chairs at poker table: Made Goods; chandelier: Arteriors
Chairs at poker table: Made Goods; chandelier: Arteriors
Classic autographed guitars add to the vibe of the cave. The homeowners are hoping to add to the collection in the future.
Pool table: VDRC.com
Pool table: VDRC.com
Before Photo
BEFORE: Dennis and the homeowners liked the location of the wet bar; they just didn’t like that it felt too tucked away.
AFTER: The new bar was brought forward and designed in line with the palette and style of the overall space.
With the bar, gaming tables and ample seating, not to mention the pool and grounds just beyond the threshold, the cave has proven a favorite spot for all members of the family.
With the bar, gaming tables and ample seating, not to mention the pool and grounds just beyond the threshold, the cave has proven a favorite spot for all members of the family.
“We love how well it works for entertaining,” Mike says. “My favorite times are playing pool with my older kids and friends, and treating our guests to the finest cigars, wine and scotch around.”
More: Why Men Really Do Need a Cave
Wet bar cabinetry: WestArt Woodwork; wet bar backsplash and counter: TileBar
More: Why Men Really Do Need a Cave
Wet bar cabinetry: WestArt Woodwork; wet bar backsplash and counter: TileBar
Because every home deserves an amazing kitchen: A beautiful, welcoming and functional space that’s designed for... Read More
What are you working on?
Related Products
Dream Baths is a complete design-build-remodel firm located in the Historical German Village area of downtown... Read More
Related Stories
Houzz TV
See 1 Designer Deliver 2 Distinct Bachelor Looks
Young professionals looking for style upgrades in their condos turn to an interior designer and get striking spaces
Full Story
Decorating Guides
New Sophistication for a Connecticut Bachelor Pad
A designer helps her client update two key spaces in a home with beautiful lakeside views
Full Story
Studios and Workshops
Visit London’s Shed of the Year
A modern Renaissance man carves out a multifunctional green oasis amid London’s urban whirl
Full Story
Bedrooms
Room of the Day: A New Yorker’s Bold New Bedroom
Power pattern and color in a bachelor’s personal sanctuary
Full Story
Houzz Tours
Houzz Tour: Surfing Inspires a Metal-Happy San Francisco Loft
Surfboards, graphic wallpaper, a propeller and a little pink push this apartment out of obscurity
Full Story
Decorating Guides
Room of the Day: Playing All the Angles in an Art Lover’s Living Room
Odd angles are no match for a Portland designer with an appreciation of art display and an eye for good flow
Full Story
Room of the Day
Room of the Day: A Garage Makeover That Rocks
By Becky Harris
A once-neglected Los Angeles garage becomes a stylish man space: music room, office, lounge and guest quarters
Full Story
Living Rooms
Room of the Day: Fun in a Jiffy for a Downtown Dallas Living Room
Who needs nightclubs with an urban space this entertaining? And the designer pulled the entire loft together in just 3 weeks
Full Story
Outbuildings
Room of the Day: A Backyard Studio for Repose and Reflection
By Fred Albert
See an Atlanta man cave that’s more Bauhaus than Bedrock — and offers outdoor spots for relaxing, rain or shine
Full Story
Love it and what a clever way to use those homes that have those breezeways. We have always had a game room in our homes and now we have downsized, but the little house has a detached one car garage. We do not use it and are planning to turn it into a small bar and lounge. Garage door will be removed for a large slider glass wall and we plan on making the front facing the pool area into a sit down bar. Cannot wait to get started on it.
that is a fantastic transformation-makes the backyard seem so fun
We are such fans of this makeover! It was one of our favorites this year