Decorating & Design

February 9, 2011

Ramsin Khachi’s “Mancave”

When masculine and feminine design elements are off-balance within a home, it can leave homeowners feeling out of place. That’s a challenge that Toronto-based designer Ramsin Khachi, principal of Khachi Design Group, regularly addresses in the spaces he designs. It’s also the inspiration behind the Ryobi “Mancave” built by Summerwood Products, which he’s creating for the National Home Show presented by RE/MAX at the Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place in Toronto from February 18 to 27, 2011. (This blog is sponsored by NHS.)

(You may recall that last year at the National Home Show, Khachi designed the Dream Home garage — a manly workshop including sleek cabinets, wall-mounted storage, high-tech gadgets and a large work area.)

This kitchen was another one of the rooms he designed last year. The unusual wine bar and hidden refrigerator were two of the most unique elements.

This year’s “Mancave” — presented by Ryobi and built by Summerwood Products —  is a space designed for today’s man. “He’s a more stylish, refined individual who enjoys his light hobbies, is in tune with family life, realizes the importance of quality time and takes pride in everything he owns,” explains Khachi. The dwelling’s big reveal will take place at the show, as part of The Boulevard of Dreams, presented by the Toronto Star. The sanctuary will be surrounded by endless gardens connected to two other homes.

The preliminary sketch above is of the exterior, being built by Summerwood Products. Although the Mancave is housed in a garage, it will feature heating and insulation to make the space usable year-round. So, homeowners could just as easily convert a room or basement into a similarly themed space. Built-in cabinets, storage and a compartmentalized recycling centre that’s concealed, vented and accessible make the converted garage practical, as well. “A Mancave should facilitate the modern man’s lifestyle, giving him the tools to handle a busy schedule while keeping him connected to his world,” says Khachi.

And what about some of the most unusual Mancave features? “I hate to give them away, but, the hidden garage door and putting green,” says Khachi. This retreat will be built on-site, so you’ll have to go to the National Home Show to experience it in person. “I hope that everyone that walks through this garage will not only be wowed, but also inspired by more than just one thing,” he adds.

If you don’t have the space required for a man’s oasis into your home, you can still incorporate masculine influences such as neutral window fabric, a wall-mounted TV and accessories made from metal, leather and wood. Khachi acheived this look last year at the show, as seen above.

Khachi will talk about the Mancave on the Urban Barn Main Stage, presented by HGTV, on February 20 at 11 a.m. and February 26 at noon at the National Home Show. So, buy your tickets online in advance and use the coupon code “HOUSE” to save $6 off regular adult admission. Plus, get more tips on interior and exterior design from Khachi and other celebrity designers in our Home Trends Gallery, and enter to win tickets and a $1,000 Bowring gift card!

Photo credits:

1. Michael Penney.
2. Ramsin Khachi.
3-4. Shaun Mitchell Photography.