There is no doubt that your basement can be one of the most versatile spaces in your home. Whether your family is growing or you want to add space for entertaining, the basement can be used in many ways.
This family loves sports and wanted a large game area to host team bonding events, Super Bowl parties, World Cup celebrations and more. We built them a custom space with a guest bedroom, full bath, family room and kitchenette.
Add a Bedroom
Adding a basement bedroom is one of the most affordable ways to turn your unused space into something functional. This bedroom will add value to your home if you ever decide to sell it and will also provide the family with a place to sleep that isn’t in the main living area of the house.
When designing a basement bedroom it’s important to make sure that the space is comfortable for those sleeping in it. A comfortable mattress, pillows and bedding will help ensure that those sleeping in the room feel rested. It is also a good idea to paint the basement bedroom in warm hues to help drive away any dreary feelings associated with a dark, unfinished basement.
Adding closets, drawers and other storage to a basement bedroom is another way to increase its functionality. Store extra blankets, linens and dressers in a convenient location to keep the bedroom looking clean and organized. Using wood throughout a bedroom is also a great way to add warmth and texture to the space.
Add a Bathroom
Adding a bathroom to the basement can add a lot of value and functionality to the home. Whether you have guests visiting or need a place to wash up after a long day at work, having an extra bathroom is a great addition to any home.
Installing a bathroom in the basement typically works best plumbing-wise when it is located directly below an existing bathroom on the main floor. This helps to simplify plumbing and cut down on costs by not having to run pipes around the house.
One of the most important parts of any bathroom remodel is the installation of a vent fan. It is crucial to the safety of occupants and can help to eliminate odours, improve indoor air quality, and remove moisture and humidity that may lead to mildew and mould. It is also required by most building codes to be installed in any bathroom. This is typically a simple task for experienced DIYers.
Add a Living Space
Adding a living space to your basement can be the ultimate way to customize the area for your family’s needs. Whether you want to add a guest bedroom, home office, recreation room or even a kitchenette, your possibilities are unlimited.
It’s important to think of both your short-term and long-term goals when planning a basement remodel. If you plan on using the space for rental income, you may want to consider a kitchen that will be appealing to future tenants.
To help combat basement moisture and flooding, floor drains should be installed. They can tie into a storm drain directly or work in tandem with a basin with a sump pump. Basements usually don’t get a lot of natural light, so be sure to install recessed indirect lighting as well as wall accent lighting to highlight artwork or books on shelves. To make the space cozy, large area rugs will help warm up the cool cement floors.
Add Storage
Whether you use your basement as a family media center, office or playroom, storage that combines function and style is key. Incorporate a combination of open shelving, cabinets and cubbies for everything from books to sporting gear to cleaning supplies. Closed cabinetry can tuck away pesky electronic cords and knick-knacks.
Make a statement with basement storage by using color. Here, neutral walls allow green and orange pillows to pop, with the same colors continuing on boxes, trays and baskets. Designing a room around one source of inspiration—like a color, a tile pattern or an heirloom piece of furniture—is another way to create a custom look.
If you’re adding DIY or purchased shelves, consider plastic bins with clear fronts to keep contents organized. They’re also sturdier than cardboard and offer the added benefit of being easy to see through, making it less likely you’ll find yourself digging through bins to find something. If your basement is damp, run a dehumidifier to reduce the risk of mildew and rust. Basement Remodeling Fort Collins