A BDSM dungeon, or sex dungeon, is a room or space designated specifically for BDSM play or BDSM scenes. Private dungeons, such as those inside peoples’ homes, are often in basements, but can also be set up in bedrooms, spare rooms, or even large walk-in closets. Public dungeons can be found in fetish studios, sex work spaces, sex or BDSM clubs, warehouses and nightclubs (sometimes during specific fetish parties and themed nights) and are usually open to the public.
Any number of BDSM activities and scenes can occur in a dungeon, including, but certainly not limited to:
These spaces are usually stocked with various BDSM toys, furniture, and equipment, including:
- Sex toys.
- St. Andrew’s cross.
- Padded floors and walls.
- Hooks and eyelets for suspension ropes and bars.
- Beds with built-in restraints.
- Chains and shackles.
- Impact play devices (paddles, canes, whips and the like.)
- Bondage furniture such as benches and even cages.
- Sensory-deprivation equipment.
- Torture racks and stocks.
More About BDSM Dungeon
The term “dungeon” is a whimsical way to incorporate the frequently desired sinister aspect of BDSM into the physical embodiment of these activities. Certainly, some BDSM dungeons are designed to resemble just that: a dungeon, a room for torture, a place of despair. However, a BDSM dungeon can be designed in any fashion and incorporate any kind of décor imaginable. Some are dark and gloomy while others feature ornate, stylish décor. And some BDSM dungeons are simply the collection of specific BDSM equipment in a plain, white-walled room.
It is currently unknown how many actually occupy the bowels of castles, the traditional home to dungeons. If you want to research, we are happy to hear it!
As attitudes around sex and BDSM have shifted in recent years, BDSM dungeons have become more popular. The depiction of Christian Grey’s “Red Room of Pain” in the “50 Shades of Grey” series gave many people very sexy ideas. So much so, a new type of destination travel has emerged, with people advertising their dungeons for rent on sites such as KinkBnB. Some homeowners have also embraced the increased interest in BDSM by including candid descriptions and photos of the dungeons in real estate listings when they decide to sell their homes. BDSM dungeons are a popular attraction during public fetish parties and nights, and serve as a good way to introduce new people to BDSM and the various types of equipment used. Some events feature up-close demonstrations or even stage shows for both education and entertainment. Attendees are welcome to use the equipment provided, either on their own or guided by more experienced practitioners. To ensure safety and consent, the equipment and space are supervised by dungeon monitors (also sometimes called dungeon monitors). DMs do not participate in scenes or activities while they are on duty.
