As part of our retirement preparation, we each wrote a paper describing our thoughts and wishes. Below is an excerpt from mine, detailing my reasons for a man-cave.
*Another reason arises after watching a slew of friends and relatives in retirement. I’ve noticed a consistent pattern which we probably shouldn’t ignore. Every retired male eventually acquires some sort of “retreat”. Examples include hunting/vacation cabins, airplanes (& hangar), workshops, hunting leases, and cabin-cruiser boats.
One disturbing thing I’ve noticed as I age is that there are very few places where an old guy (by himself) is allowed to “be”. Society seems to limit us to fishing, golfing, and hunting (lake, course, or lease). This is difficult to describe, but I’ve begun to notice it when you’re gone for some reason and I have solo time to fill. Go to a restaurant? Feels strange on most nights to be solo. A movie? Again odd to be alone and they’re all about comic book characters anyway. Go camping? I found that other campers seem concerned about an old fart who’s obviously by himself. I’ve tried this and actually got quizzed by a Dad in the next campsite (I lied and said you were joining me but got stuck at work). I think it’s pretty obvious that a couple can’t spend 24/7 together without getting on each other’s nerves, and it’s probably a good idea to have somewhere to go at a relatively small expense.*
My particular choice was a smallish cabin-cruiser. With central heat/air, a small entertainment system, bathroom and a kitchen - I can spend hours or even days aboard. It allows me a deck on the “waterfront” where I can read, fish, listen to music or watch my choice of movies, while giving us both a break from constant togetherness.
To the OP, if you’re really getting a “hut” for a retreat, I’d advise one that’s mobile. I realize my solution may be expensive, but there are a lot of RV-style solutions that won’t break the bank and provide comfortable quarters.