Man Cave by Inhouse Brand Architects
Designed by Inhouse Brand Architects, Man Cave is an industrial-inspired dream pad situated in Cape Town, South Africa.
About Man Cave
Inhouse Brand Architects transformed an unused lounge area in a Fresnaye home into an industrial-inspired man cave. The space, designed for a teenage boy, reflects his interests in skating, surfing, and socializing.
Industrial Design and Skate Bowl
Polished concrete floors set the industrial tone. A fully functional concrete skate bowl dominates the room, crafted through a meticulous six-week process. Initially, the bowl was to be in a recessed area, but structural concerns led to an alternative plan.
Creating the Skate Bowl
The team removed an entire floor level, created a frame with timber fins, and shaped it with plywood and polystyrene. They filled the space with sand and rubble, then poured cement to solidify the bowl. Despite delays, the result is a deeper, more functional skate bowl.
Artistic Enhancements and Movie Zone
South African street artist Jack Fox added his signature illustrations to the walls around the bowl, working non-stop for 12 hours. A curved timber wave cascades from ceiling to floor, creating a unique movie-watching zone. This wave, made from steel fins clad with timber, is illuminated by three LED strips and equipped with surround sound.
Stylish Bar and Seating Area
The bar area features a sleek black Smeg fridge and a surfboard rack. The 4.5-meter (14.8 feet) bar, made from polished concrete and clad with timber, exudes masculinity. Next to the bar, a booth seating area offers a cozy spot to relax. Timber framing and indigo upholstery enhance this inviting nook.
Industrial track lighting and soft LEDs create ambient lighting. Steel cage pendant lights above the bar add to the urban aesthetic. The room also includes a high-end pool table, a vintage Spider-Man pinball machine, a punch bag, and a pull-up bar.
Whether skating, watching movies, or playing games, this man cave is the ultimate hangout spot for the teen and his friends. They’ll never want to leave!
Photography by Riaan West
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- by Matt Watts