Space is always at a premium with a growing family. And many homes have a goldmine of space downstairs waiting to be transformed into a useable and attractive area for play, relaxation and anything else. Basement remodeling is likely the easiest way to add living space in your home, with low cost opportunities and designs that deliver major impact.
You'll need to ask yourself a few specific questions to help hammer out the best design.
What Will You Use the Space For?
The function of this area will form the foundation of its design. If the kids will be playing down there you'll need to include durable surfaces that clean easily and can take a few bumps. If it will be more of a retreat for quiet relaxation, soft textures and soundproofing are a good idea.
Think about how your family will use the newly finished basement and then design to suit that activity.
Can You Use an Extra Bathroom?
Basement remodeling is the perfect time to add important (and valuable) features to your home. A second or third bathroom will increase the overall value of your home and give your family flexibility - which is especially important as the kids move into the teen years.
Basement bathrooms can be challenging and may require some creative plumbing. The drainage system is usually the issue and a pump may be needed to get that wastewater to the sewer. Homes with a septic system may be just fine, but an assessment by a qualified plumber or basement renovation contractor is a wise idea.
How Can You Maximize the Light?
People are often worried about ending up with a dark and dreary space downstairs. But with the proper designs and dècor your basement remodel can be bright and welcoming. The idea is to choose paint and upholstery colors that reflect the light - neutral and pale colors - and choose fixtures that will maximize the space.
Pot lights are a good option, because they have a wide distribution and are recessed into the ceiling. There are very few shadows with pot lights and you can use them for direct lighting (over a mantle or air hockey table) or to illuminate the whole room. Track lighting also works well and can add interesting shapes to the room's decor.
Do You Still Need an Unfinished Area?
You may be getting excited about how much living space your basement will provide, but don't forget that an unfinished area downstairs can also be valuable. Decide whether you should allocate an area in the basement for storage or an interior work space. It can be helpful to have a spot for overflow or to keep seasonal items safe and clean, especially if you don't have a shed or a garage.
The bottom floor of your home is the ideal spot to create more living space. Think through the design by considering what you will use the space for, whether you'll need an extra bathroom and how you can maximize the lighting. Remember to figure in a small amount of unfinished space for overflow storage. With these answers your basement remodeling project will transform your home and add value.
Posted by: dianaSuggested Reading For You
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