Sometimes people simply don’t know where to start when it comes to optimizing their space, which can morph into an inability to do anything at all. This paralysis is especially prevalent among a certain subset: single males between 18 and 35 who live in what we might affectionately label “mancaves.” Mancaves are generally dusty, mismatched places that are conducive to beer pong and X-box matches but unlikely to impress any females who are unfortunate enough to stumble into one. When you’re ready to graduate to a more mature and stylish layout, look no further, Mancave Makeovers will guide you. We promise not to make you chuck your favorite dartboard or blow your PBR savings on throw pillows. – FM

RULE #1. UPGRADE YOUR COUCH. If you’re a mancave dweller, your couch is the epicenter of your home entertaining endeavors, so it should be as nice to look at as it is to sit in. Invest in one that has staying power in terms of style and durability. Some suggestions:

IKEA’s two chaise lounge and armchair combo in dark brown is a stain resistant and practical couch for the modern man.

Ikea KIVIK 2 chaise lounges and armchair, $977

The Night and Day sofa in “Timberwolf” from Urban Outfitters is very Mad Men. It also doubles as a sleeper sofa (wink wink), with a Mad Men era price you can’t beat:

Night and Day Convertible Sofa in Timberwolf, $588

The Amara Apartment Sofa from Chiasso is a sleek mid-sized option covered in beige tweed and a foam/feather fill:

Amara apartment sofa, $898

If you can’t afford a new couch and your existing one has seen better days, consider a slipcover. Slipcovers can look cheap and baggy if not properly sized, so get one with dimensions as close to that of your couch as you can, and stick with a neutral color that will coordinate with the other pieces in your living room. Here are a few we like:

This 2 piece stretchy slipcover from Target in neutral beige is highly practical.

Casual Home Stretch Ribbed 2-pc. Sofa Slipcover in Beach House Tan, $69.99

Pottery Barn’s Dropcloth slipcover in cream twill is a good choice for oddly shaped couches and airy, open spaces.

PB Dropcloth Twill Slipcover for Sofa or Armchair, $59-79

Stay tuned for the second installment of Mancave Makeovers next week!