Man Spaces Week

We've come to the end of Man Spaces Week and what a fun ride it has been!  

We covered everything from "boyfriends" and barbers, to career journeys and "tuxedo-like" interiors. But what I'm most proud of is that we kept it real.  This was not a week of disingenuous gimmicks.  These were real men, and the spaces where they live, work, play and of course design. 

We round up this series with a simple checklist of lessons gleaned from each post this week.   These are simple ways add touches of refined masculinity to your home or lifestyle.  Whether you're a single professional, a newlywed, or family man, there is something on this list for you.

Affiliate links may be included in this post. This means that should you purchase a linked product, I may receive a small commission, but at no additional cost to you. To read my full disclosure click here.  All photos featured not marked "J'adore le Décor" have been used with owner's permission.

Indeed a man's space— whether it's a small man cave, or an entire home— should be a reflection of his whole life: his dress and grooming, his passions and lifestyle.   Here's how to incorporate it.

1.  Stick to Minimalist  Artwork and Lighting

Bloggers Boyfriend showed us how non-fussy, and yet cool, black and white artwork can be.  The beauty of it is that it blends in with any color palette.  It also doesn't have to be expensive.  In fact, the four 8x10 abstract botanical prints below are FREE when you sign up for my newsletter.  Just click here, or on any of the prints to go to the sign up page.  These can also be resized as needed.

2.  Invest in a Good Bar

Bar carts are not just for beer and alcohol you know.  If you're a family man, or one who doesn't consume alcohol, consider using bar carts as coffee or juicing stations.  Or even a place to store your collection of books or art pieces.  Notice how computer programmer-turned designer, Donté Kelly used a simple closed-front sideboard in the photo below

3.  Add an Earthy (Manly) Aroma

We admired the old world charm and services of upscale gentlemen's barber shop Truefitt & Hill.  But if the scent of a man narrates a story about him, the same holds true for the scent of his home.  If candles are too complicated, add a scented diffuser like the one on the far right below.  Look for masculine ingredients like Oud, Bergamot, Patchouli and Cedarwood.   

Even if the only space you have to yourself is a small closet (hey it happens), try to add a nice aroma.  You will be amazed by how it affects your disposition.  

4. Keep Calm and "Collected"

Finally the rooms presented by R Jones Designs reminded us that just as a man in a tailored suit never looks as though he purchased the entire outfit at one time, so the "collected" room must look as if it has been assembled over time.   

While it might be tempting to take the easy route and buy the "package deal".  Take the time to carefully choose, balance and edit the space(s) where you want to leave your mark.

To the gentlemen who allowed me to feature them, their stories, and brand here on JLD this week, I offer my sincerest gratitude.  Thank you also to those who reached out to me on Instagram and Facebook, via email, through blog comments, and even in person.  The feedback I received from you readers was amazing.   As a result, the slots for next year's Man Spaces Week are already half filled! 

For now, please tell me in the comments below:

• Did you follow the Man Spaces Week?  If so, what was your favorite feature?
• What would you like to see featured in Man Spaces Week 2018?

One more favor may I ask of you?
If you enjoyed this post
Please share, tweet or pin it.
Merci Beaucoup!

Something for Your Pinterest Board