If you’re looking to showcase that you live in a gentlemanly abode, we feel that a gent’s home just isn’t complete without these 10 items!
- 1. A Distinctive Work of Art
- 2. Quality Leisure Attire
- 3. Fine Table Accouterments
- 4. A Proper Coat Rack
- 5. A Bar Cart or Cellarette
- 6. A Well-Curated Bookshelf
- 7. Quality Speakers
- 8. A Quality Mattress & Fine Linens
- 9. A Well-Stocked Guest Bathroom
- 10. A Pleasant Olfactory Atmosphere
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Refining Your Personal Space
Two notes before we jump in: first, these items are those that, in our estimation, really showcase that certain gentlemanly je ne sais quoi; in other words, we won’t be covering essential home goods that one would expect to find in most any well-stocked home.
“People would rather live in homes regardless of its grayness. There is no place like home.”
Lyman Frank Baum, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
Second, we’re not saying that one isn’t a gentleman if they don’t own all (or any!) of these items–simply that to obtain one or more of them is a gentlemanly accomplishment.
Let’s start!
1. A Distinctive Work of Art
Perhaps no single item expresses your personality more readily than a carefully chosen work of art. It serves as an immediate focal point and a natural conversation starter, setting the tone for your entire living space.
It Should Reflect You
The goal is not to acquire the most expensive or famous piece, but to find something that genuinely reflects your tastes. This could be a painting from a local artist, a vintage advertisement, or an architectural element.
Framing is Non-Negotiable
A quality frame is essential, especially for prints or posters. This simple step elevates the display from a temporary decoration to an intentional part of your decor, neatly avoiding the “college dorm room” aesthetic.
Think Beyond the Canvas
Art is not limited to paintings. A beautifully mounted map of a city you love, a sculptural lamp post, or a collection of framed historical documents can be just as impactful. The key is that it speaks to you.
2. Quality Leisure Attire
A gentleman’s commitment to being well-put-together extends to his moments of relaxation. Just as you wouldn’t wear a tuxedo to the office, you shouldn’t wear street clothes while lounging at home. Investing in quality leisure attire is a mark of a man who values comfort and elegance in all contexts.
This doesn’t necessitate a silk smoking jacket (though it is a classic choice). The key is intentionality. A clean, coordinated set of loungewear, a quality dressing gown, or a comfortable pair of pajamas and slippers can look just as elegant as a formal outfit.
We have a complete guide on how to dress for leisure…
For the consummate host, consider keeping a few guest bathrobes on hand. It is a small but deeply appreciated gesture of hospitality that makes visitors feel truly cared for.
Would YOU Wear this Vintage Robe?
I’m wearing a fairly casual ensemble. The centerpiece, of course, is my vintage burgundy silk dressing gown, which features a relatively bold, somewhat paisley pattern. I purchased this dressing gown secondhand from Lula Vintage in St. Paul, Minnesota (not a sponsor), though we have filmed videos there in the past about vintage shopping tips.
The shirt I’m wearing today is also vintage; this is an OCBD in off-white or ecru that I inherited from my late grandfather. It, of course, has both a button-down collar and button cuffs. My trousers are plain brown, though they do have a reddish undertone to harmonize with the dressing gown, and my belt is also in medium brown leather.
My shoes are medium brown suede loafers; they’re fairly unconstructed and in a moccasin style, so they’re almost like slippers, tying in with the loungewear feel. The fragrance I’m wearing today is Habit Rouge from Guerlain. It’s a favorite of mine because it’s got a bit of spice to it but is also a fairly subtle fragrance.
Finally, the socks I’m wearing are from our own brand, Fort Belvedere. They’re two-tone shadow stripes in charcoal gray and orange, so they have a brownish appearance from a distance. You can find the socks I’m wearing, as well as a wide array of other menswear accessories, corduroy trousers, and fragrances from the Roberto Ugolini collection, by visiting the Fort Belvedere shop here.
3. Fine Table Accouterments
While the quality of the food is paramount, its presentation significantly enhances the dining experience. A gentleman’s table should be as well-appointed as his wardrobe, with proper place settings that show care and intentionality.
Invest in a Complete Set
Strive to obtain all the necessary elements for a full, traditional place setting, including matching china, silverware, and glassware. The uniformity of a complete set signals a higher level of refinement than a collection of mismatched pieces.
Much like a work of art, your choice of tableware is a reflection of your personality. The intricate design of a vintage silver fork or the clean lines of a modern porcelain plate can be appreciated as works of art in their own right, turning every meal into a special occasion.
Could you be using your cutlery the wrong way?
4. A Proper Coat Rack
A coat rack in the entryway is a hallmark of an orderly and hospitable home, offering immediate functional and aesthetic benefits.
- It provides elegant, designated storage for classic menswear items like hats, coats, umbrellas, and scarves, turning your quality accessories into temporary decorations.
- It offers obvious utility for guests, eliminating the awkward search for a closet from the moment they arrive.
- A quality piece made of wood or metal adds its own inherent character and sophistication to a foyer.
“The grandest ambition that any man can possibly have, is to so live, and so improve himself in heart and brain, as to be worthy of the love of some splendid woman; and the grandest ambition of any girl is to make herself worthy of the love and adoration of some magnificent man. That is my idea. There is no success in life without love and marriage. You had better be the emperor of one loving and tender heart, and she the empress of yours, than to be king of the world. The man who has really won the love of one good woman in this world, I do not care if he dies in the ditch a beggar, his life has been a success.”
Robert G. Ingersoll, The Liberty Of Man, Woman And Child
5. A Bar Cart or Cellarette
A dedicated station for serving drinks is a hallmark of a masterful host, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to hospitality. Even if you do not partake in alcohol, a handsome bar cart allows you to graciously serve any type of beverage, making every guest feel catered to.
Beyond its utility, the piece itself can be an elegant conversation starter. Consider a vintage cellarette—a decorative cabinet designed for storing bottles—to add a unique, historical charm to your space. To ensure you are always prepared for any occasion, simply keep the station stocked with essentials like a bottle opener and proper glassware.
How refined is your setup for hosting?
6. A Well-Curated Bookshelf
A collection of books is an instant and profound reflection of your personality and intellect. Even if you are not an avid reader, a bookshelf filled with titles you enjoy or admire serves as a powerful statement piece and a natural conversation starter. A guest who notices a shared favorite author or genre is immediately given a window into your world.
While the works of classic authors like Fitzgerald, Hemingway, and Fleming certainly capture the spirit of a gentleman’s library, the collection should ultimately be your own. If your passions lie elsewhere, a bookshelf can just as elegantly display other forms of physical media, from vinyl records to a curated collection of films, or other mementos that tell your story.
The key is to create a space that showcases your interests and invites connection.
7. Quality Speakers
A gentleman understands that the atmosphere of his home should appeal to all the senses, and sound is paramount. Whether music is the main event or a subtle background element, playing it through a quality sound system is a mark of true refinement.
- It creates an immersive experience: Dedicated speakers provide a rich, immersive auditory experience with a dynamic range that the tinny speakers of a phone or laptop simply cannot replicate.
- It’s an accessible Investment: Fortunately, advancements in audio technology mean that investing in excellent sound no longer requires breaking the bank. High-quality, stylish options are more accessible today than ever before.
Which investments stand the test of time?
8. A Quality Mattress & Fine Linens
Given that you will spend roughly a third of your life in bed, there is perhaps no more logical or rewarding investment for your home than a quality mattress.
Sleep Better Every Night
Proper support and comfort are foundational to a restorative night’s sleep, a difference you will feel profoundly once you make the upgrade. This principle of quality extends to your bedding. Fine linens, such as high-thread-count cotton or linen sheets, not only provide superior comfort but can also help regulate temperature for uninterrupted rest.
Furthermore, a well-made bed dressed in quality materials is a visual centerpiece, transforming the bedroom into a true sanctuary of comfort and style.
9. A Well-Stocked Guest Bathroom
A gentleman’s hospitality is most keenly felt in the details.
The guest bathroom should be more than just functional; it should be a clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully stocked space that anticipates a visitor’s every need, much like a fine hotel.
Provide Quality Essentials
Go beyond the basics by offering fine hand soap, quality shampoo and conditioner, and ensuring extra toilet paper is plentiful and easy to find.
Offer Hotel-Level Comforts
Have a set of fresh, plush towels (hand, body, and washcloth) and a clean bathmat laid out for your guest’s exclusive use.
Anticipate Unspoken Needs
The most thoughtful hosts go the extra mile by providing a small kit of amenities. This might include a spare toothbrush, common over-the-counter medicines, and other simple conveniences to save your guest a potentially awkward request or an urgent trip to the store.
This level of preparedness shows a foresight and care that is the hallmark of a truly gracious host, allowing guests to feel secure, comfortable, and well looked after.
10. A Pleasant Olfactory Atmosphere
A gentleman understands his home should be a feast for all the senses, not just the eyes. Whether you control your space’s scent with candles, diffusers, potpourri, flowers, or even just the scent of decent cleaning products, you can ensure your home smells great.
Going the extra mile to have not only a clean home but a refreshing one makes it all the more inviting for any guest.
Conclusion
If you invest in one or more of these items, we’re confident that your home will instantly be elevated to a new level of refinement and panache. Do you own any of the items we listed today–and are there others we didn’t mention that you think deserve a spot on the list?
Decorate the comments below with one of your own!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some essential items every gentleman should have in his home?
A gentleman’s home should be both comfortable and functional, reflecting his personality and sense of style. Essentials often include a well-made bed with clean sheets, matching towels, a quality sofa, a bookcase filled with interesting reads, and a set of matching dishes and cutlery. These basics signal maturity and attention to detail, making a strong impression on guests.
Why is a bookcase considered important?
A bookcase packed with books and a few personal mementos not only broadens your horizons but also showcases your interests and intellect. It’s a classic staple that adds character and depth to any gentleman’s living space.
Are there specific kitchen items every gentleman should own?
Yes. A gentleman’s kitchen should be equipped with essential cooking utensils, such as a quality kitchen knife, a non-stick frying pan, a saucepan, a cutting board, and measuring spoons. Matching dishes, cups, and cutlery are also important for both daily use and entertaining guests.
What contributes to a comfortable and inviting living area?
In addition to elements like a cozy throw blanket, an area rug, a clean and stylish sofa, and a comfortable reading chair, gentlemanly spaces are often defined by an interesting piece of art that makes the space feel more welcoming and personal.
How can a gentleman ensure his bathroom is up to standard?
A clean bathroom with matching towels, quality hand soap, and extra toilet paper is essential. Upgrades like an electric toothbrush and a hair dryer demonstrate attention to personal care and hygiene.
Are there any items that reflect a gentleman’s personality or hobbies?
Absolutely. A game set (like chess or backgammon), a tasteful piece of art, and a collection of books or music all reflect personal interests. These items can serve as conversation starters and show depth of character.
Should a gentleman invest in home technology?
A good sound system or Bluetooth speakers enhance the atmosphere, whether for entertaining or relaxing. A modern television and smart lighting can also add both convenience and style to the home.
What about comfort and relaxation?
A robe and slippers are classic comforts for downtime at home. Quality pajamas and a supportive mattress contribute to better sleep and overall well-being.
Refining Your Personal Space
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Designing a Closet Worthy of a Gentleman
Your wardrobe is an investment. Learn how to design a closet space that is not only organized and functional but also showcases your sartorial collection with pride.
Lifetime Buys for a Gentleman
Explore our guide to “buy it for life” items—from a classic wristwatch to a quality leather armchair—that offer timeless style and enduring value.
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