Every corner of the house needs attention and care, even some not-so-visible ones. If you wonder about the attic, take a second guess. It’s your basement area. This extra space can be a boon, provided you utilize it properly. For instance, you can build it just like the main floor of your house with a bedroom, living area, bathroom, etc. Of course, the budget will be high, but the outcome can be more than enjoyable. You can invite more guests, have sleepover nights with cousins and friends, or even rent it out. Renting can be a good idea if it’s legal in your neighborhood and you are okay with it. It will create a new revenue stream.
When you host a large gathering, the thought of having a space without any use can pinch more. Nevertheless, it makes sense to prepare this space even for personal use. Else, the neglected corner can forever remain out of reach. So, let’s not have any regrets and find ways to convert it into a cozy dwelling. Here are a few design perspectives to give you some direction.
Bedroom
When you imagine this area, you think of a dark and drafty environment while it can be cheerful and bright. Add recessed lighting, soft color tones or accent walls, etc. You can attach trim boards in herringbone style to give some artsy vibe. It will look quite stylish when finished. For this detail, you can use MDF boards. Nail them to the surface and caulk the gaps before painting them. You can select a bed and side table depending on the room size. A small room should have a few necessary furniture items to avoid crowding and a suffocated aura about them.
Bathroom
Why pay much attention to this specific room in the basement? A simple structure with essential features should do the job. While individual preferences and finances matter, proper renovation planning can solve plenty of your concerns. Suppose you decide to use this basement space after seeing the impact of the renovation. You will get quickly bored after a few days if it lacks desired energy and appeal. Even tenants and guests may need to find it more interesting. If you feel it will need much more than you can afford, that’s not the case.
Some easy hacks can transform its overall look instantly. For instance, you can install floating vanity to free the floor space, creating a sense of airiness. You can build open storage shelves on one side of the toilet. You get readymade options, which can be affordable. If you are a DIYer, consider elevating its face with semi-handmade wood materials for an upscale charm. If you have been looking for a bath sink replacement for the main bathroom, it can be a good idea to explore something for this place also.
Wet bar
Including a wet bar in the basement lounge area is a classic idea. Cabinets, tile backsplash, and floating shelves can complete this corner. Add strip LED lights under the cabinets to give it a luxurious touch. This corner can be handy if you have special guests coming over to your place. You can have your essential conversations there.
Egress windows
It is your emergency exit for ground-level construction. At the same time, these can eliminate the sense of darkness or dungeon-like feel from your basement room, making it more inhabitable. Opt for a larger size if you like your area to be well-lit. However, this feature may require building code permission. Also, it should conform to standard construction rules, such as 5.7 square feet opening, 20-inch width, a minimum height of 24 inches, well clearance of about three ft. x 3 ft., etc. In terms of design, you have many options, including casement, sliding, single-hung, double-hung, and more.
Gym
Whether or not you are a fitness freak, having a dedicated workout space can be inspiring and enticing. You may start exercising to make use of your investment. No matter what motivates you, this specific nook can be an asset. You can build its flooring with vinyl planks, use modern paint, and keep it spacious. Accent walls can give this room a unique focal point away from the home gymming equipment.
Living room
You enjoy creative freedom when preparing this space. If you love the industrial decor, it can be the right place to try this design idea. Keep your ceiling exposed. There is no need to add tiles or drywall, as these can increase your overall cost. Just apply suitable paint to make the surface invigorating for the eyes. You can choose a dark blue-gray shade for some decorative feel. Add leather sofa and wood furniture to elevate its style.
Faux windows
Some basements may lack windows and suffer from the absence of daylight. You can install faux windows with LED light panels to eliminate the risk of darkness. The good thing is this window is more affordable to install than an egress window. You can put it anywhere in the basement because it differs from the actual window feature. That means you don’t need to seek any permission to install it.
Playroom
If you have kids at home, give this idea some serious thought. A spacious basement allows you to build different dedicated sections, and a playroom is one of them. Your kids can play here while your living area remains mess-free. Colorful additions, storage shelves, and cozy seating can be the highlights here.
The basement room can give you more privacy, which your upper floor areas lack. Whether you want to stay alone or do intense work, this finished floor will oblige your commands. And as mentioned, you get more freedom with design in this corner. So, it’s time you invest some time, money, and energy here. You can apply your DIY skills wherever possible to minimize labor costs and hone your talent. Many homeowners do this, so don’t worry about the risks. Just choose areas that are easy to manage for you. Also, take help from your family and friends when you need it. It will make your renovation project more fun.
