Design Musts: How to Create the True Gentleman’s Bachelor Pad

We love a sophisticated, masculine look here at The Kuotes. You know the man (or you are the man): he holds the door, he lives between Park and Lex, and he knows how to wear a suit on Sundays. Interestingly enough, the idea behind our gentleman’s bachelor pad look is not a new one. The trend dates back to postwar 1950s when men returned home to their families, and society began to focus on “lifestyle” living: a husband who worked, a wife who was in charge of the home, and two children who went to school. 

A LOT has changed since the 1950s. There are strong, powerful women in the workplace, and men contribute to caring for the house. But we’re still head over heels for the suave style and masculine elegance found in the gentleman’s bachelor pad. Think Frank Sinatra’s clubhouse in Ocean’s Eleven—a space where a guy can mix a few cocktails, put on a little moody jazz, and invite friends over for a fun time. Here’s everything you need to know on how to get the look. 

Our first tip: go big on the sofa.

Guys generally take up more space and like to stretch out on furniture. But aside from this, the sofa is where you’ll being working, reading, or kicking back with some friends, so you’ll want it to be large and comfortable. What kind of sofa should you buy? The classic bachelor pad choice is the leather sofa, and it’s the classic choice for a reason: leather is durable, easy to clean, and there’s something innately strapping about the tough fabric (learn more about why we love leather here).

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For the mysterious, brooding man, we love a black leather sofa.

If you’re more of a rustic guy, a deep and traditional brown will ground your living area. For those who want a more approachable look, upholster your sofa in velvet, suede, or a dark linen (like in the photo below) for an affable space while still making a sexy statement. Regardless of your fabric choice, it’s fair to say that the most gentlemanly of sofa silhouettes is the Chesterfield, featured in the above left photo. Shop our Custom Upholstery Shop to easily get the best fabrics your sofa needs to impress your friends (and the ladies).  

Want even more lounge space?

A gentleman’s bachelor pad can never go wrong with a great sectional! Sectionals are great for relaxing, but they also create a very natural divide if you need to subtly section off your living space in an open concept apartment. Sectionals “bring everyone in,” which calls for a cozy and comfortable environment. Just look at the image above. Notice also how wallpaper does NOT have to be feminine. In fact, KKH is known for its wide assortment of industrial wallpaper that adds a refined, textured element to any masculine space.  

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Here are the rest of your bachelor pad living room must-haves:

 A statement coffee-table that’s not from IKEA, a media cabinet for all your tech, and accessories that you love. There’s no need to hide your TV, but don’t let it sit by itself. Adding great decor will ensure your space a look that is curated and purposeful. Remember, a true gentleman’s bachelor pad is bespoke, filled with furniture and decor that is unique to you that won’t be seen anywhere else.

Having a stylish, fully-stocked kitchen is a necessity for the modern man.

For the bachelor, we love kitchens with dark, moody walls and stainless steel appliances. Make sure the kitchen area has a bright light for cooking but a dimming option available for eating (we suggest two or three industrial pendants for above the kitchen island, read more here). A few great bar stools are also essentials to give your kitchen space some personality.

A true gentleman has moved beyond the eat-at-the-coffee-table stage of his life.

Your bachelor pad needs a dining table. A dining table makes it much easier to entertain and host dinners, and you can choose fun and modern dining chairs for some added attitude (or opt for something more traditional for a chic and mature look). Matching flatware and dishes are also not a bad idea.  

The gentleman’s study is perhaps the most iconic of masculine looks. 

Here are your main ingredients: a great leather armchair with masculine angular arms, a scholarly bookcase (filled with James Joyce and Cormac McCarthy), a statement desk large enough to spread out your laptop and papers, and framed wall art (note: empty walls scream, “a bachelor is living here!”). Below are some of our favorite masculine office looks:

Can you say moody?

Just imagine the perfect gentleman scholar sitting on that nailhead-accented armchair, reading the Sunday NYT with a cigar resting in his outstretched hand, feet up on a leather ottoman. This room is just gushing aesthetic. The use of animal iconography also creates a defined masculine look by elevating the decor. We have our eyes on that handsome hide rug and love the polished sportsman appeal of the faux taxidermy above the mantle.

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Practicality matters.

We love masculine studies that are inspired by the functional, utilitarian design of factories and warehouses—like this desk crafted from reclaimed pine and iron for a stable industrial feel.

A true gentleman needs an impressive bedroom with sophisticated design where function still reigns supreme.

Start with a simple, comfortable mattress (we love Casper or Tuft&Needle for great customer service), and then class it up by not forgetting a headboard and always having fresh white sheets. For bedding, stick to whites, greys, and other solid colors. Textured bedding is okay, but too much pattern or design will read dorm room. Our favorite bachelor pad bedrooms are overall neutral with bold, eclectic decor. 

The dignified dude pays attention to details. 

We don’t even know where to start on the example above: the herringbone hardwood, the hide rug, the dark tufted bed, the faux taxidermy, the decked-out bookcase, the bone inlay mirror, and a gorgeous split chandelier—all in a cool gray tone with a sleek, modern vibe. We love it all!

The final thing every bachelor pad needs is booze.

Whether you have a built-in bar or a rolling bar cart, every gentleman needs to be prepared to entertain his guests. Read more on how to get all of the bar cart essentials on the blog here, and check out our stylish bar carts below. 

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Kathy Kuo Home Design Services

Feeling inspired? In addition to being a source for beautiful high quality furnishings and decor, Kathy Kuo Home has a team of professional interior designers that are ready to assist with all of your interior design needs. Our services provide multiple layout and design options that fit your style and budget for any room. You will work with a team of designers and project managers to help you love where you live.

Call (888) 908-3486 or email designs@kathykuohome.com today to get started!