In this episode of Decorated, Cotter and Will dive deep into the intersections of masculinity and interior design, guided by the lavish world of Prince Egon von Furstenberg’s The Power Look at Home. Join us as we explore bachelor pad aesthetics of the 1980s, from industrial minimalism to decadent decor, and discuss how masculinity shaped—and was shaped by—interior design trends of the time. We’ll touch on everything from Egon’s unique style to the broader cultural shifts that redefined what “masculine” design meant.

With insights from guest designers Kelly Rosen and Jay Jeffers, we question if traditional markers of masculine decor (like leather, exposed brick, and dark tones) still hold sway or if design has outgrown these gendered ideas. We also take a humorous look at r/malelivingspace, Reddit’s infamous forum where men swap design advice, often with questionable results. Cotter and Will challenge listeners to rethink masculine interiors, asking: is it still about stereotypes, or is there a new vision for gender in design?

Show Notes :

• Introduction to Masculine Interiors

  Cotter opens with a reading from Prince Egon von Furstenberg’s The Power Look at Home. Discover how this 1980s design guide encapsulated an era where style and status converged. Link to the book’s listing on Amazon.

• The Power Look in the 1980s

  Explore how Egon’s vision redefined “powerful” spaces for men and what made 1980s New York City the ideal setting. We dive into bachelor pads that mixed minimalism with luxury, reflecting shifting social norms.

• Guest Designers Kelly Rosen and Jay Jeffers on Masculine Design

  Interior designers Kelly Rosen and Jay Jeffers join the discussion, sharing insights on what masculine design elements look like in modern spaces. They discuss how features like exposed brick, leather, and industrial touches have been reinterpreted in contemporary homes. Kelly’s Instagram, Kelly’s Portfolio, Jay’s Instagram, Jay’s Portfolio

• Masculine Design in Today’s Interiors: A Look at r/malelivingspace

  We review Reddit’s notorious r/malelivingspace, where men post photos of their living spaces for design advice. See the highs, the lows, and everything in between as users attempt to create stylish spaces with little experience. Link to r/malelivingspace on Reddit.

• Shifting Masculine Design Trends

  What is “masculine design” today? With input from Kelly and Jay, we examine how industrial design markers have evolved and why clients now prefer warmer tones and cozy, sophisticated materials that blend aesthetic appeal with functionality.

  • Designing for Masculine Spaces

Stay tuned for our upcoming episode on Architectural Digest and the aspirational interiors that have influenced countless homeowners.

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