Gone are the days when it was acceptable to have a bachelor pad furnished with deck chairs, a mould encrusted bathroom and pizza boxes as plates! This may be an unfair stereotype, however many men lack the know-how to transform their apartment or house into a welcoming home.

 

The living room will set the tone for the whole home, and is the best place to start when redecorating. Start with a few key pieces of furniture for your living room. If your budget can stretch to a leather couch, this will be a fabulous starting piece. It is an investment not only for its quality and style, but will withstand years of abuse and it will remain a classic piece for years to come. Denim or suede couches are also an option as they are both elegant and easy to clean.

 

When it comes to masculine décor, less is more. A large wooden or glass coffee table is essential for when you are entertaining. A large rug is also a practical addition while bringing personality to your room. Rugs can either hide a dingy carpet or protect a wooden floor and a thick, shaggy rug with dark or bold colours will create an inviting feel in your home. It will also work as a great focal point for your room.

 

No bachelor pad is complete without a large screen TV. However, try to keep other gadgets and gizmos to a minimum. Invest in an entertainment centre or large press for all unsightly items, including your cherished playstation or Xbox! I know you love them, but do not make your guests step over a jungle of wires every time they visit. Simply tidy them away when you are not trying to reach the next level of Final Fantasy XIII!

 

Once you have chosen your furniture, be sure to add some colour. Take inspiration from the rug and pick the colours you love. A colour I love at the moment is Elegant Smoke from Crown’s Classic Collection. Provided you enjoy a reasonable amount of natural light, this rich, sophisticated shade will create an amazing ambience in your living room. It is also amazing as a backdrop for a black leather couch.

 

If you prefer more subtle shades, Classic Mocha, Classic Buff, Classic Taupe and Classic Umber are all beautiful beige and brown hues which will give your room a touch of class. If you happen to have a chimney breast in your living room or would like to create a feature wall, why not add a splash of red. If you are feeling adventurous, check out Red Hot or Fireside from the Crown range. Alternatively add red and black cushions or curtains to create that swanky, bachelor pad!

 

Accessories will complete the look so why not add a selection of personal keepsakes to display on shelves or bookcases. Dog-eared posters are not stylish, but why not frame a select few as a sophisticated alternative. Vintage ads or posters in simple frames also make for interesting wall art. You may feel that vases are too feminine but a large urn with a collection of long bamboo leaves or even a cactus can be a striking feature.

 

Don’t forget to add modern light fixtures such as a free standing lamp or ceiling lights. Ultimately remember to let your personality shine through as you decide what works for you.

 

Happy Decorating!

 

Neville