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 QuailApril 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.

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.

Lori Dennis, ASID, LEED AP

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

Lori Dennis, ASID, LEED AP

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.”

Lori Dennis, ASID, LEED AP

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

Lori Dennis, ASID, LEED AP

Upholstered chairs and a custom-designed poker table complement the room’s palette.

Chairs at poker table: Made Goods; chandelier: Arteriors

Lori Dennis, ASID, LEED AP

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

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.

Lori Dennis, ASID, LEED AP

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.

Lori Dennis, ASID, LEED AP

“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