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Me-time is something men have always coveted. If you wind the clock back 800,000 years, the sanctuary of choice was a cave. The natural, rugged hideout was the perfect place to break rocks, make primitive tools, relate stories through art, and contemplate the bigger picture.
Fast forward to today and the potting sheds or wooden greenhouse is the modern equivalent.
Today’s man cave is vastly different from that used by now-extinct species of humans. For a start, it can serve more than one purpose. How many greenhouses have you seen being used to house hot tubs or provide storage space for everything from hosepipes to garden furniture?
‘I’m off to the shed’
The wooden greenhouse became a cubbyhole for those seeking solitude in the 1800s. A bastion for the wealthy, it spurned an interest in homegrown fruit and vegetables, as well as exotic plants.
It would be decades before the average man in the street could enjoy the same experience. With materials in greater supply, the greenhouse became affordable. It was a life-saver across Europe during World War II, when ‘growing your own’ was the only way to supplement meager rations. In the years that followed, the wooden greenhouse inspired the conservatory and became a place visited not because of necessity but desire.
As families embrace the need to source food closer to home, the ‘grow your own’ mantra is in vogue. It saves money, supports sustainability and, best of all, it is good for you.
Wooden greenhouse man caves
One of the great things about the modern man cave is that it has curb appeal. While the basic lean-to is still a popular choice, the wooden greenhouse is available in a wide range of sizes and styles. Elaborate dwarf wall versions are perfect for leisure activities and work, as well as gardening. They ooze a sense of luxury and style that were distinctly lacking in early man caves. Think up-scale summerhouse or a 21st Century folly with a purpose.
Whether it is a man cave that resembles a classic potting shed or Victorian-themed greenhouse, it will offer endless opportunities for hobbies, gardening, and a bit of peace and quiet. It has become an away-from-it-all place to watch televised sporting events, read a new book or simply chill out. Home bars are a popular addition, along with gym equipment and comfortable rattan furniture.
My cave, my rules
With the modern man cave comes a plethora of new rules for the wooden greenhouse. How many have you seen with tongue-in-cheek signs displayed? Tool rules and references to the soccer season are popular choices.
Here are some top tips to consider before investing in a man cave:
- Choose a wooden greenhouse that does not require any DIY skills. Find a supplier that will do all the hard work for you.
- Make sure the installation is free before you agree to buy.
- Only invest a wooden shed fitted with mortise locks. Protecting your tools and other valuables should be a priority.
- Go for a model with toughened glass.
Looking for a place to get away from it all that is not too far from home? Your garden is your sanctuary with a modern man cave.
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This content is sponsored by Jim Bevin.
Photo: Shutterstock