Men moving out of the cave and into the manscape

Manscapes are about to reveal the creativity and style of South African men.

Recognising that manscapes - an outdoor paradise for men - are already a trend in the country, Decorex SA - taking place in Durban from March 20-23 - has invited celebrities to team up with local landscapers to create their ultimate outdoor living area.

"Man caves and manscapes are definitely a trend in South Africa at the moment. A lot of spare bedrooms and offices are being created into man caves where the man can entertain his friends, have a little bar area and a cigar lounge, and because manscapes are outside, it's an idealistic area," Decorex SA general manager Sian Steyn said.

While a stocked fridge, enormous television and braai stand are essential in manscapes, beautiful plants, sophisticated furniture, fire pits, water features and elaborate outdoor kitchens are commonly featured.

Former professional cricket player Russel Symcox wants a herb garden in his manscape so he can use fresh ingredients in his dishes.

"Unfortunately we don't have much time in our modern schedules and often these outdoor areas are neglected until the weekends, but I'm hoping to create a space that inspires regular visits and is simple to maintain," Symcox said.

Landscaper Harry Dickinson, who teamed up with Symcox for his manscape, explained more men were getting involved with the design of outdoor areas.

"I like to think it is nice for men to have an entertainment area where they can have a boys' night or watch the rugby with their friends and have a few beers and a braai, but because we are family-orientated, we must look at it as a family area just with a man's opinion and style," Steyn said.

Clinical psychologist Hlengiwe Zwane said men need personal space as much as women because it aids self-development.

"One should not lose themselves when they are in a relationship, so each partner should be able to have a space where they can be alone or socialise with their friends," she said.

But, Zwane warns, manscapes and man caves should not be used to hide away from problems at home.

"Firstly there should be boundaries. If you want to have that personal space, it should be communicated to your partner and clear boundaries should be set. Secondly, the man should not spend all his time there or use it as an escape to avoid dealing with problems at home," she said.