If you have been glancing round your bedroom lately and thinking that the decor and furniture don't really reflect your male sensibilities, it could be time for an overhaul.
A masculine bedroom is typically simple, clean and contemporary in appearance, featuring dark colours and strong designs, while wooden furniture and natural fabrics can add a rugged, outdoor feel.
The absence of frills and floral patterns shouldn't mean your room will be unpleasing to any ladies in your life, however.
It is possible for your bedroom to reflect a masculine aesthetic while having a broad appeal to both sexes. In fact, a woman is more likely to feel relaxed in a well-designed, tasteful masculine bedroom than a man might feel when confronted with a girly, pink boudoir.
Try these ideas for transforming your bedroom into a stylish modern man's domain.
Masculine colour schemes
Start by making a thorough assessment of your bedroom. What do you like and dislike about it? Do you need to throw out your furniture and start from scratch, or can you create your desired look through a few simple changes?
Even the position of the furniture and furnishings can significantly change the appearance of your bedroom. For example, placing the bed at an angle in the corner can make your room appear larger, while mirrors create the illusion of depth. (Be careful though! Not every woman wants to feel she can be viewed from all angles when in a state of undress!)
If you need new furniture, measure and note down the dimensions of your room to get an idea of what will fit best in the space.
If you're redecorating your bedroom, you'll need to decide on a colour scheme. Take into account the size of your room and the amount of natural light it receives: darker colours will close up a space, while pale colours help give it a light, airy feel. If you like a strong, dark colour but think it will make your room look dingy or poky, compromise by painting one wall in your chosen colour and the others in a neutral tone like white or cream.
Select curtains that contrast (but don't clash) with the colour of your walls. If you've chosen a neutral shade of paint, the curtains could present an opportunity to incorporate a bolder colour without overwhelming the room. For a clean, masculine look, choose heavy curtains in a single colour. Use nature as an inspiration and go for dark greens, blues and browns, or perhaps a touch of deep red or rusty orange to brighten things up. Avoid anything sheer, light or decorated with fussy patterns, though.
Fabrics and furnishings for men
Choose bedding in a colour and style that complements your decor. Solid shades or plain stripes in dark colours are very masculine. Another popular choice of bedding design among men is wildlife and animal prints (you could even develop a tropical or safari theme in your bedroom, with ethnic rugs and objects from around the world).
When choosing fabrics for your bedding, soft Egyptian cotton sheets add a touch of luxury, while faux suede and leather covers or cushions help strengthen the manly image. Don't scatter pillows and cushions all over your bed, though, as this suggests a more feminine, romantic style.
It is now time to add the finishing touches: plush rugs to soften a plain wooden floor, a tasteful selection of decorative items in dark wood or metal, paintings or photographs, and perhaps an Art Deco lamp.
Include a few personal items that reflect your character and interests, but don't go overboard with knick-knacks. Remember that simplicity and restraint are the keys to creating a modern masculine bedroom.
By:Leigh A. Matelas
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