Creating a welcoming, fun and cozy basement is high on the priority list for many of our clients these days. From gaming, movie nights, sleepovers and family entertaining, folks are wanting the basement to be more useful and more beautiful than ever. Here are a few pro-tips for getting the most out of your underground space:
1. Create an overall vibe - Basements are a great opportunity for getting creative with design. Think beyond beyond neutral walls and ceilings and go for it with millwork, wallpaper and lighting. With most basements lacking in windows and views, the interest needs to come from decorative elements. Basements are also a great space to display collections or interests - from classy takes on sports memorabilia to family photos - it fits with the inherently casual nature of the basement.
2. Know your audience - Who will be using the space most frequently and for what? If you’re accommodating groups of kiddos who want to game, eat pizza and watch movies, you’ll want to focus on durable materials and lots of easy self-serve areas for food and beverage. Pop-a-Shot, ping pong and modular sectionals seem to be top of list for the tween to teen market these days. For more sophisticated entertainment for adults and families, wine storage, golf simulators and theater rooms are popular - using materials and fixtures that bring a more refined ambiance help up the wow factor.
3. Consider ceiling height and natural light - Many basements lack high ceilings and great natural light, and ALL basements have to deal with soffits for HVAC and other components. When a space is naturally dark, we always say to play it up with moodier colors and textures and to amplify ambient and task lighting. Lower ceilings call for creative space plans that utilize varied ceiling heights appropriately.
4. It doesn’t have to be perfect to be great! Free yourself from the fantasy that your basement has to be over the top to be enjoyed. Remember - your flexibility and chill factor as a host are the most important elements in creating a home folks want to be in.
All-in-all, a basement (especially an unfinished basement) is full of potential. Thinking through who will use the space, how and the vibe you’re after, putting in the time planning, finding the right construction partner and being prepared to make it personal, and this space could be a fun extension of your home.