When it comes to interior design, there are a few things that are often considered “gendered.” For example, pink and frilly curtains or floral patterns might be seen as feminine. Most of the time, women take charge of how the home interior space is decorated. However, there are more and more men who are interested in having a say in how their homes look.

First and foremost, remember that not all men are the same. Just like women, men have different tastes when it comes to design. That being said, there are some general design principles that appeal most to men of all ages. These are based on the psychological differences between men and women. If you’re designing a home space for male residents, here are some tips on how to create a masculine space that will appeal to the male aesthetic.

Neutral Colors

Color is an important element of design, but it’s one that should be used with care. Men tend to prefer darker and more neutral colors. A common color scheme for a masculine space is black, gray, and brown. Men also like navy and deep forest green. To add contrasts, white and shades of light gray and beige are popular choices. Men favor strong contrasts because most of them cannot recognize subtle variations in shades.

It’s best to avoid using too much color or using colors that are too bright. That doesn’t mean you can’t use color at all in your design, but you’ll want to be mindful of how you use it. If you’re designing for a male audience, use brighter colors sparingly. A bit of color can go a long way. You can also use a darker or more subdued version of the color. For instance, instead of fuchsia, use maroon or burgundy. Instead of bright yellow, use ocher.

Natural Materials

Men often gravitate toward design materials that convey a sense of strength and durability. Wood, leather, stone, concrete, and metal are all popular choices for masculine spaces. These materials are often seen as more rugged and durable than their counterparts, making them ideal for men who want their space to reflect their personality.

Of course, these materials can also be used in more feminine designs. However, they are typically incorporated in a way that softens their edges and makes them more inviting. As a result, men who choose to use these materials in their homes often find that they create a space that feels both stylish and welcoming to everyone.

Simplicity and Functionality

Remember that men tend to prefer simplicity and functionality over fussiness. This doesn’t mean that your design has to be boring, but you’ll want to avoid using too many decorations or having too much clutter. Men also prefer straight lines over curves in design.

For instance, for window treatments, custom roman window shades can be made to fit. These look more streamlined and tailored than curtains. They fold up or stack up neatly when opened, with no bunching. They can also be made with any preferred fabric or wood, bamboo, reed, grass, or jute.

Add lots of large storage spaces where men can easily shove in things to get them out of sight. That is because most men can’t be bothered to put things away neatly.

Comfortable and Ergonomic Furniture

Men want sturdy furniture with simple and clean-looking lines and shapes. Furniture that is comfortable and ergonomic is also important. For example, a recliner is a popular choice for men’s furniture because it allows them to relax and unwind after a long day.

In the bedroom, a man might prefer a bed with a solid headboard that is comfortable to lean against while reading or watching TV. In the living room, a couch with a low back and wide seat cushions is often more comfortable for men than a sofa with a high back and narrow seat cushions.

For a home office, a wide desk with plenty of surface area is often more appealing to men than a small desk with limited surface area. This is because men often move their arms more expansively; hence, they need more space. Ensure that the work chair is ergonomic and has adjustable features to allow for proper back and neck support. Ensure that your design is conducive to concentration and task completion.

Incorporate Technology

While most women see technology as a necessary evil, most men see it as a necessity. Men are more likely to be interested in gadgets and gizmos than women. As a result, they are more likely to want to incorporate technology into their home design.

For example, many men want to have a big-screen TV in their living room, so they can watch their favorite sports teams or movies. They may also want to include a sound system and gaming console. In the kitchen, they may want to have a refrigerator with a built-in ice maker and water dispenser. In the office, they may want to have a computer with a large monitor or even several monitors.

Customize Design

When it comes to interior design, there are a few key things to keep in mind if you want to appeal to the male aesthetic. Men tend to prefer neutral colors, natural materials, simplicity, functionality, comfort, and convenience. In addition to these masculine preferences, though, you must also customize the design of a particular space based on the individual personalities of the men who will live there. With these tips in mind, you should be well on your way to creating a home interior that will appeal to its male residents.