Popular Basement Design Ideas to Consider

Before you embark on your basement finishing project, you should ask your self a few key questions so that you have a firm grasp on what you are looking to accomplish. Designing your basement can be a relatively painless task if you know what you're after. According to experts, the key things to consider are fuctionality, light and effective use of space. Solving these three elements starts at the design level. To help you with the design process, we've listed some of the common concerns homeowners have as well as some guidance for answering each of those questions.

• What will I use the extra space for?
• Do I need extra bedrooms or will the space be used primarily for entertaining?
• What climate do I live in and how will that influence my basement remodel?
• How do I make the basement not seem like that dark, cold area under my house?

Make Use of the Extra Basement Space

If you are going to invest the money in remodeling your basement, make sure you design it in a way that benefits you while you live in the home and when you sell the home. Finishing off your basement is a great way to add extra square footage which will increase your home's value as well as give you an extra place to live in. Some of the top uses for basement rooms are as follows:

1. Home Theater - What better place to watch a new movie than a room that already has the ability to limit light and sound? Basements are a great spot for a sound system, big screen tv, cozy leather couches and more. If you've planned it correctly, you'll be able to watch your favorite movies without disturbing those upstairs. Make sure you install proper sound insulation to prohibit noise bleeding.
2. Bar Area - This is another popular feature of a finished basement. There are simple ways to create an inviting area for your friends to come and enjoy. When combined with a game room of sorts, having the bar area close by is great when you want to enjoy some drinks over a game of pool.
3. Extra Bedroom - If you have a teenager and you have a basement space, you've probably already been asked about them moving into the basement. Since teenagers like to sleep, a bedroom in the basement will give them extra space and quiet if needed. You might also use it as an extra guest suite especially if you include a bathroom in the space. If the inlaws come over for that long week stay, you can put them in the nicely finished basement away from your living quarters so you can keep your sanity!
4. Game Room - Who wouldn't want to come over to your house if you had a pool table, dart board, foosball table and pinball machine all in one room? If you have the extra space in your home and just want to use your basement as the 'party room', make sure you stock it full of games.
5. Study, Den or Office - Provided you have taken the steps to properly light your new basement, moving your home office downstairs can be a great decision. It's a perfect way to give yourself peace and quiet when you are on a deadline and need to concentrate.
6. Fitness Room - Who needs a gym membership when you've got it all at home, right? Having the added space will give you a great place to run on a treadmill or ride your stationary bike. In addition, you'll be able to situate your workout machines in front of a mounted television on the wall to make your workout go by quicker. You may also consider installing mirrored walls to create a larger looking space and to closely resemble the gym that you'll now no longer need to pay membership fees for!

To Entertain or Not to Entertain...That is the Question

Though creating an entertainment room is one of the most common uses for a basement, it is certainly not the only option. You might find that as your family grows you simply need more rooms for people to sleep in. If you have unfinished space under your home, it can often make more financial sense you remodel it rather than building an entire new addition to your home. Basements can be transformed into completely functional guest suites if needed.

Avoid Being the Person with the Cold Basement

Depending on the climate you live in, this may or may not be an issue for you. Make sure you plan ahead and allocate space for additional heating units. Also, have your basement contractor analyze your basement space for foundation leaks and dampness. Provided you take the proper precautions, you can make sure you basement is warm and cozy instead of cold and damp.

Let There Be Light!

Don't be afraid to go overboard on the lighting when you are designing your basement. Since the space is primarily underground you will want to take steps to create a bright space. In addition to extra lighting provisions, you should also choose a color scheme that will create the illusion of a bright space. Don't pick dark colors as this will have a negative affect. Another popular design feature is to use French Doors. French doors will allow more light to enter the room and will also help create a more open space.

Need Help from a Basement Design Professional?

If you have read through this article and still would like to speak to someone who can offer you more personalized assistance regarding your space, you have come to the right place. We work with a nationwide network of basement design professionals who can provide you with a free estimate on your project. Tell us about your project - Free Basement Remodeling Estimates