We all deserve a retreat, a special happy place where we can be embraced by the comfort of our favorite things. Last month, in honor of Mother's Day, we outlined steps for creating a ma'am cave. Now for Father's Day, we give males equal time and present tips for carving out a man cave he can feel proud of!

Choose your space. A spare room, basement or garage is ideal, but if space is limited, consider using the attic, or even the shed out back. If there are no self-contained spaces available, you can always split a room using a folding room divider, curtain or two-sided bookshelf. Mirrors can make a space feel larger.

Define your purpose. Decide the purpose of your man cave - is it for relaxation, entertaining, hobbies or all of the above? Be realistic in your assessment of its space and function. Pick an object that can be your focal point, such as a pool table, exercise machine, jukebox, bar or large-screen TV.

Soundproof your room. This step is helpful if you intend to watch sports on TV, play pool or engage in other loud activities with your friends. Install fiberglass or other insulation material between the wall studs. This step also helps maintain family harmony while enjoying your man cave.

Pick your colors. Paint or wallpaper the room. Bright colors will give the illusion of more space, but darker colors are good for home-theater setups or for a relaxed, bar-like atmosphere. Use Ravens purple or Orioles orange as accents.

Add lighting if needed. Install recessed lighting or a light fixture on a dimmer switch if you want to watch movies. Consider getting blackout panels or blinds to darken the room and minimize daytime glare.

Add comfortable seating and furnishings. Get the comfiest couches, recliners, armchairs or floor cushions you can find. When choosing furniture, take into account the purpose of your cave. If you anticipate beer being spilled, plan accordingly when deciding upon upholstery. Today's textures and patterns allow you unlimited choices. Put in end tables for drinks, or a large round table for card playing. Bookcases are a great way to display your trophies and books. Furnishings don't have to be expensive. You can find great deals at consignment shops or yard sales. A soft shag rug, which can be customized to match your colors, will pull your space together nicely.

Add personality. Make your man cave your own by decorating with photos, art, albums, neon bar signs, or your mounted taxidermy that might not otherwise be displayed in your main living space. Add your TV, sound system, game system, computer and mini or full-size fridge. If you have room, add a workbench and exercise equipment. And if you're lucky enough to have Snoop Dog's budget, consider adding a sheared-off trunk of a vintage Cadillac, repurposed as a couch!