One of the most fun and diverse games in the world is the game of poker. While already the most popular gambling and casino card game in the U.S. and Europe, it exploded into the global mainstream and became a worldwide obsession in the early 2000s.
For the last two decades-plus, hundreds of millions of players have gathered everywhere from kitchen or garage tables to casinos to private upscale games to even underground and illegal game rooms to enjoy their favorite pastime.
If you are one of these people and you’d like to create the perfect poker cave in your home, there are only a few, core things you really need. From poker sets to the design and layout, we’ve got you covered.
1. Give It Its Own Dedicated Space
The first thing you need for your poker room, obviously, is a room. If you’re using a regular table or a quality tabletop setup, you’re too limited in what you can do. Garages, porches/patios, kitchens, or other shared-space places really don’t qualify, unless you dedicate that space solely to poker.
Climate-controlled garages that you don’t use for your cars or tools or storage can make great poker caves. If you have an enclosed patio area, that can also be suitable. Dens make fantastic options, as do basements.
2. Get the Proper Poker Set and Equipment
Once you figure out where to put your card room, furnishing it comes next. You’ll need a good tabletop at bare minimum, or preferably a solid poker table, comfortable chairs, and a quality poker set. As far as the table, make sure the felt is in good shape with no tears, rips, or uneven areas. Try to find ergonomic chairs that recline, have comfortable armrests, and good lumbar support.
Poker chips and accessories come in a number of different types of sets with various items. Quality sets consist of things like custom or casino-grade playing cards, different types of chips made from different materials, dealer and blind buttons, and many other accessories.
3. Pick a Fun and Unique Décor
This might be the most fun part of the process. This is where you get to let your creative side out. Themes are a good idea for poker room décor. Among the most popular would likely be Vegas, sports-themed, general gambling, and Western/saloon decor.
4. Stock It with Snacks, Beverages, and Other Amenities
Finally, you’ll need to equip your poker room with the essentials; things for your guests to eat and drink. Consider a mini fridge for everything from water to soda to adult beverages. Bar-type snacks such as nuts, chips, and pretzels, as well as something like pastries, cookies, and candies for your guests who have a sweet tooth.
Let the Games Begin
Now that your perfect poker setup is officially set up, you and your playing companions can get the cards in the air. Having your own, custom place to play your favorite game with your favorite people is something everybody should have.
Now more than ever, we better understand the need to connect and interact with other people, while engaging in an enjoyable activity to unwind and do something good for our mental health. The benefits of in-person poker go much deeper than fun and thrills; it impacts us on a personal level.