The concept of the bachelor pad is as old as time, with men of all centuries and cultures seeking a stylish piece of shelter away from the demands of partners and work.

The Victorians capitalized on the concept of the pied-à-terre, a secret and seductive place for a man to conduct his business-and the business of pleasure-in peace.

The advent of Hollywood style makers such as Clark Gable, Cary Grant, and Frank Sinatra set the official scene for the bachelor pad as we know it today, and many gents prefer not to deviate too far from the original.

Timeless art, personal memorabilia, vinyl collections and extensive libraries, as well as a personally stocked bar all make for functional decor — no frills or useless interior bric-a-brac here. If you’re looking for worthwhile inspiration then look no further than the eras and icons you looked up to as a child, that one scene in that one film where you thought to yourself “THAT’S who I want to be.” Beyond nostalgia you can also look to other countries and cultures for particularly refined decor ideas; perhaps a Turkish hookah lounge or Japanese tea house, or steamy Cuban cigar bar?

Your bachelor pad is your escape from the world, but also your chance to invite the best aspects of it in. Regardless of where your tastes lead you, let your choice of manly decor take you right where you want to be: home.