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Finished basement designs


47 Cool Finished Basement Ideas (Design Pictures)

These cool finished basement ideas share a variety of exciting ways you can get the most out of your extra living space. A finished basement design gives you, family and friends a place to hang out and enjoy any time of year. From home bars, game rooms, home gyms or movie rooms there are tons of ways to create a finished basement you’ll love.

In modern homes, game room are starting to become an essential part of the house. The modern basement game room shown in the image above with mood lighting make this area look just like a high end nightclub. Gorgeous cone pendant lights over the pool table are ideal for a focused lighting which are perfect for the game. A stylish hideout for the man of the house and his friends.

Table of Contents

By definition, the Basement is the lowest habitable level of a building or a residential house which is usually below ground level. Thanks to interior designers, these basements are now being transformed and remodeled from a dark, damp and dreary place of the house into a functional living spaces which can be enjoyed by the whole family.

The size of the basement doesn’t matter – whether it is a full basement, half, walkout or cellar type. Basement remodeling could enhance the value of the home since it expands the square footage of the house, thus creating an additional, usable space and efficient storage when renovated. A finished basement can also be a good investment.

It is very important to first think about how you want your basement to function.

• Open Floor Plan – allows you to incorporate several smaller working areas and different zones for various activities in one well-designed space.

• Stairwell – it is best to open the stairwell and install a banister for a more open feel. Another idea is to incorporate storage space with the stairs.

• Flooring – it is very important to select suitable flooring which will be durable and appropriate for all types of weather and withstand fluctuations in moisture levels.

• Lighting – create well-lighted basement using track lighting, recessed lighting as well as incorporating other types of lighting fixtures for more dramatic effect. Allowing natural light into the basement is a big challenge; and the best solution is installing window wells. Make sure you install window wells where you could make them as wide and deep as possible to bring much needed sunlight into the basement.

• Colors – when renovating or remodeling basements, note that colors do play an important role in each design concept you want to achieve. Choosing the right colors will make your basement stand out and create a cozy ambiance.

• Sound Proofing – noise from the basement can travel up to the main house, it is advisable to choose an engineered drywall to dampen the noise coming from the basement.

Find inspiration for your basement makeover with our featured design and decorating ideas. Below are concepts and popular choices for different functions and activities for a basement renovation.

A neutral color palette is employed for this modern basement which incorporates a small kitchen, bar and a living area with fireplace. The result is a lovely and relaxed feel for this open floor plan multi-purpose room.  The porcelain faux wood flooring and the area rug adds texture and splash of color to the room.

Basement Remodeling Ideas

Basement spaces have abundant remodeling ideas and design possibilities that would cater any purposes and activities. Our gallery of cool basement design ideas will surely impress and excite you to create your own basement living space where everyone will love to hang out.

This luxury basement with a wet bar offers extra convenience and accessible utility to this lower level living space. Wall to wall cabinetry with open glass shelving provides a display storage for wines and other liquors. Raised panel base cabinets give lots of additional storage space. The stone fireplace keeps this basement warm and cozy; perfect for entertaining and a great focal point for the area. The stone flooring and matching stone accents on walls and island bar are crafted to create the right balance for this design scheme.

Basement Color Ideas

Whether your basement is for a game room, man cave, yoga retreat, or movie room, this room has the potential to be the best room in the house. What color you chose depends on a few things, the most important being what is the tone that you want to set for the room? Followed closely by how the room will be used and who will be using it most. The color is really going to set the stage for this space so you want to make sure you have the right color before you commit it to your walls.

Before you even consider color, you want to have lighting in the space figured out. If you don’t have any natural light, how are you going to brighten up the space? Will you use pot lights or track lighting, will you supplement with floor and table lamps? Your paint will look worlds different if you change your lighting after you paint, so try to sort out your lighting needs first.

If you are going for a movie screening room, then go with a dark neutral, or simply go dark. You want the walls to recede and you don’t want a lot of glare from your projection equipment or tv. Make sure to use a flat paint and paint the ceiling in a dark neutral to prevent light from bouncing around and creating glares. For a classic, old world move theater feeling, go with a rich burgundy or deep navy.

If you want a more contemporary feel, a gunmetal grey or lighter silvery grey would be perfect. Bold, dark colors aren’t the only choice though, if you aren’t a fan of saturated color, simply chose a dark neutral in tones of grey or brown.

For a playroom, keep it cheerful and bright. A lovely lemon-curd yellow is a great choice provided you have ample lighting. Any yellow tone will look muddy in a dimply lit room, so keep that in mind when selecting paint colors. If you want to be really adventurous, purple is perfect for a basement playroom. Purple inspires creativity and energy and is great for the playroom that will double as a creative space.

If serenity is what you are after, think watery blues with undertones of green. Blue can read differently in different light levels, what looks relaxing on the sample strip can look downright neon covering an entire wall, choosing a blue with green undertones will help prevent that electric blue look. These beautiful, watery colors will make your basement guest room feel light and airy. It will also provide a relaxing, outdoors vibe to a yoga or meditation retreat.

Finally, go bold. If you are going to be using your basement as a sports hangout on game day, why not paint at least one wall your favorite teams color? Yes, it is outrageous, but your basement is your playground, don’t be afraid to be bold and go a little crazy.

There are no hard and fast rules about wall color in a basement, but there are ways to make your color look it’s best in a space that often has no natural light. Ensure that your lighting is in place and adequate before deciding on a color, determine what the space will be used for, and consider the tone that you want to set for the space. Your basement is one of the few truly personal spaces in a home, make it yours!

A traditional rustic basement family room features period details such as leather furniture, solid wooden chest used as side table, custom made display cabinet and paneled accent wall. Dark brown wood ceiling beam with mood lighting, conceals plumbing and highlights the wood panel ceiling which adds texture and character to the space. This cozy and warm retreat is perfect for relaxation and suitable for any family gatherings.

Basement Game Room Ideas

This contemporary basement design has several entertainment areas such as pool game area, granite home bar and more than a few seating areas are perfect for accommodating different interests and activities giving this game room personal charm and style. Modern drop lights combined with recessed lighting provides ample illumination to the whole area.

Red and Black color scheme makes this luxurious man cave basement very stylish. Wall to wall custom made cabinetry features an elegant display glass shelves for glassware and liquors. The open space in the middle is perfect for the widescreen TV; while the cabinets below provides that extra needed storage.
Who said that red carpet is just for runways, this red pool table and seating lounge is a unique choice of color which is matched by the red-carpet flooring. Neutral light tone textured gray walls balances the splash of colors.

Transform your basement into a multi-activity area dedicated to have loads of fun. Oversized bean bag seats for relaxing, reading books or just a space for adults to spend quality time with the kids and keeping an eye on them while they are playing. Create a space for children’s games and toys by having a foos ball table and some miniature rocking chairs. Light tone laminated wood flooring is a good choice for this basement play area.

Make use of existing materials such as this basement stone wall; and add accent by hanging artworks and photographs of those treasured memories. Neutral and earth tone colors combined with comfortable sofa, cozy furnishings make this family basement a warm and inviting space. A small kitchen and wet bar makes entertaining convenient and much fun.

A focal point wall is a great way to build architectural interest in the basement by installing brick tiles for durable and easy-to-maintain walls. This multi- purpose room and entertainment area, features a pool table, game table and home bar transforming a boring basement into the family room where everyone can relax, unwind and enjoy. Many finished basement ideas incorporate a home bar, game area and dining table to provide plenty of opportunities for entertainment and fun.

This “fun-tastic” gray basement recreation and game room features an air hockey game table, a display wall of toy collection and a Star Trek memorabilia and décor. Custom furniture, mini bar and other classic arcade game creates a perfect place for kids and kids at heart to unwind and have a good time.

This contemporary theme gray basement with living room area features elegant furniture and a shuffleboard table is a Game & Entertainment Lovers Dream.  Cool neutral colors with splashes of vibrant warm colors gives this room a groovy, fun, warm and welcoming ambiance.  Perfect hangout spot for teens and adults alike.

This traditional home basement is redesigned to be an adult’s retreat spot. The game area features a poker table with black leather chairs, the sectional sofa and ottoman by the fire place are made of brown leather and a small counter with bar stools. This entertainment area opens and flows out to the basement’s wine cellar. Decorative stones which are used for accent walls, arch ways and fireplace adds warmth and coziness to the room. Homeowners could entertain many friends in a fun place like this one.

A basement retreat where you can watch the NFL big play in this large screen TV and relax on this comfortable sofa lounge. The shag carpet helps reduce the noise and sound from this small basement hideaway. The neutral color scheme for the ceiling, walls, floors and furniture adds warmth and coziness to the room.

This carpeted finished basement game room offers two ping pong tables with a corner wet bar with storage cabinets. A large couch provides a place to hang out and watch sports games or movies.

Boys will be boys. This small man-cave basement is fully equipped with the essentials a man would need in his hideaway retreat – a wall dartboard, a bar and a liquor cabinet. Texture painted ceiling in two tone colors and neutral color painted walls are balanced by the medium tone wood stain finish of the cabinetry, doors and bar stools. Wall to wall carpet adds a warmth and welcoming feel to the room.

This fun and sophisticated football and baseball inspired sports room basement, features leather seats and sleek modern furniture is a perfect place for family members and friends to gather and watch Sunday night football. The display shelves of sports memorabilia draw attention to a collection of all those valuable and unique sports souvenirs. This basement combined with a home workout gym is designed to keep you fit while having fun.

Modern Basement Ideas

A luxurious contemporary basement opens to the movie and media room which showcases a drop round tray ceiling, recessed lights, light tone wood flooring and built-in entertainment center which stretches across one wall and doubles as bookshelves, provides extra storage for games, videos and other entertainment technology. A small pantry area provides convenience for food preparation and storage. Classic neutral colors add a sense of well-being, ease and coziness to the room.

This sophisticated movie and media room proves to be a modern hangout for family and friends. Sleek, wall to wall open shelves cabinetry provides an elegant space for displaying keepsakes and a place for the projector screen, stereo, DVD player and other media equipment. Dark walls, comfortable leather movie seats are great for a movie night.

This plush basement home theater features a comfortable and stylish lounge seats, classic wall lights, black patterned carpet flooring, dark gray walls and patterned red ceiling; where guests’ movie room experience is elegantly superb. Home theater ideas such as this can be the perfect way to utilize a basement to transform it to a room the entire family can enjoy.

Cool and cozy contemporary basement feature an oversized modular sectional sofa seat is a perfect spot to cuddle and relax or host a sleep over party. Drum pendant lights adds style to this small, snug living space.

Pictures of Finished Basements

This man cave basement transformation features a wet bar with bar stools where snacks and drinks can be served while enjoying shows on multiple TV screens. Perfect place to host a Super Bowl Party! Open shelves and cabinetry with granite countertop provides more storage and preparation area. Adjacent sitting lounge is a great place to relax and catch up with the latest happenings with family and friends. Check out this page for more man cave ideas for the home.

This custom basement home bar design features a small kitchen for convenience in preparing food along with other appliances, sink and wine fridge – perfect for entertaining family guests. Dark tone cabinetry in Shaker style is balanced with the matchstick glass backsplash and light neutral shade of walls, stone tile flooring and carpet.

This beautiful luxurious wine cellar basement with dining table is a haven for wine lover homeowners and their guest to enjoy and unwind. This wine cellar innovation is an efficient and proper way to store and keep vintage wine collection. Traditional custom made cabinetry with natural wood finish is the best choice for this wine cellar; it is designed to prevent airborne contaminants to spoil those vintage wines. The coffered ceiling with recessed lights, crystal chandelier and patterned flooring complete the traditional rustic style.

This contemporary custom home bar basement features a seating lounge, a custom built mid-sized wine cellar and a dining space which doubles as tasting area. This wine cellar is built perfectly and efficiently not having direct sunlight. Its glass swing-out doors help maintain the correct temperature needed for wines to age and reach perfection.

Wine requires proper storage, and transforming basements into wine cellar is putting this extra living space of your house in to good use. Choose wood which are good in quality having resistance to rot and decay, durable and requires only a mineral oil finish; such as redwood, mahogany, walnut or cypress. Stone floors are the excellent flooring system you can install for your basement wine cellars because they are strong and durable. Granite countertop is a good combination as well.

Create a restful retreat with a cottage inspired basement with a built-in wood bench and a cozy bed nook. Cool neutral color scheme of tan, pale blue, cream and white combined with minimal furnishings gives this area a warm and welcoming ambiance. For small finished bedroom ideas a built in bench that can be converted in to a bed with under cabinet storage is a great space saver and can increase the home’s value.

Create your own sports and hobby museum is the coolest thing to do with a basement. This eclectic basement is furnished with an antique wood boat which is showcased as the main focal point of this basement. A home bar and seating lounge are perfect addition of functional space which make entertaining more fun.

 

Finished basement made use of existing materials and transformed it into an elegant basement living room. Painted concrete floors and concrete hollow blocks walls are painted in classic white and cool gray. Exposed beams are furnished with industrial lights which provide ample lights to the room. Comfy, soft upholstered sofas and accent chair in neutral colors adds coziness, perfect place to sit back and relax. Splash of patterns and colors from the area rug, accent chair and throw pillows gives a warm and welcoming ambiance.

A traditional living room basement with a cool shade of lime color is perfect balance for the neutral shades of brown for the carpet, kitchen cabinetry, exposed beams, window treatment, door and other wooden furniture. The kitchenette is without an island. But has a corner home bar to give way to the large black leather sectional sofa which is perfect for movie night fun.

This practice basement room is haven for the music lovers, a retreat to express yourself through music and perfect place for a much-needed privacy and band practice. Complete with drum set, keyboard and a collection of different types of guitars, are instruments which make it possible for beautiful songs to be composed and played to the musician’s heart content.

This lovely, feminine and elegant basement with living room is a tranquil retreat for the women of the house. Large, soft and comfortable sectional couch with round coffee table is perfect for those ladies’ get-together parties.

This classic transitional lounge basement which doubles as a movie hub features corrugated steel wall paneling and exposed ceiling giving this basement its rustic appeal. The fully upholstered sofa and arm chairs are so comfortable, it gives balance to the feel of steel.

This luxury home gym basement is perfect for the whole family’s fitness hub. This is a great idea to make the best use of that extra space and keep in tip-top shape at the same time. A fully equip workout area features a weight bench, treadmill, exercise bikes and other fitness accessories makes it very convenient way to lose those unwanted weights in the comfort of your home.

Working out from the convenience of your home is not impossible to be achieved.  Did you know that home exercise equipment is smaller than its commercial fitness center counterpart?  So, these equipment takes up less space in this multi-use basement home gym, which doubles as a yoga studio.  Exposed beams with track light gives this room an industrial inspired theme.

This luxury sauna and marble shower is a stunning add on to your home basement transformation. After a stressful day at the office or for a relaxing private retreat, this is a perfect place to unwind and help loosen up those tired and aching muscles. This sophisticated steam room sauna and walk-in shower which feature custom wood treatment, marble and tile walls will automatically increase the value of your home and property.

This custom-made basement wood sauna brings recreation and relaxation to a new level. A great new way to spend leisure time entertaining friends and have fun. An innovative and healthy way to relax and unwind in the comforts of your home.

A luxurious modern basement home features a custom bowling alley room with two regulation size lanes, automatic Brunswick pinsetter machines, automatic lane cleaning/conditioning machine, secondary ball return storage rack, projection screen at the end of the lanes, medium tone wood plank flooring, wooden transition strip is incorporated onto the flush-mounted lane surface, different colored neon lights are installed on the walls adding a more modern accent , a mini bar and state of the arts swivel chairs.

Featuring a stripped indoor tepee, neutral colored accent wall filled with memorabilia combined with a wood textured wall finish, another accent wall with wall paper depicting a night sky full of stars, wall to wall carpet, cozy couch and geometric patterns for the throw pillow. This basement playroom with a specialized native American Indian theme is what this black and white lovely kid’s playroom is all about.

A whimsical castle inspired playroom features a mural painted walls and ceiling showing the entire kingdom. This “tower” can also function as a reading nook by installing carpet flooring, adding some throw and floor pillows which creates a perfect reading spot and a fun place to play, imagine, get creative and just “enjoy the view”.

“Seize the Day” with this small basement makeover which feature a kitchen with shiplap wood cabinetry, butcher block countertop, white paneled wall, overhead open shelving, carpet flooring and a neutral color scheme.

Don’t be afraid to use the Force.  Inspired by the timeless Star Wars movie, this basement room features memorabilia of the Star Wars characters in the movie.  This elegant scheme of beige walls, light tone hardwood floors and a stone fireplace is a perfect fit for a movie fanatic with a trendy taste for design.

By using turf instead of carpet and a height of 3000mm, this game room basement features a full swing Golf Simulator, and a place with enough space to allow for swing practice. This trendy indoor sport is a good idea for a basement transformation for homeowners to entertain guests. Indeed, this basement room with virtual golf practice driving range can be a man cave for golfers.

Who wouldn’t stop and look at those wonderful fishes, as guests walk into this remodeled basement. This huge wall aquarium adds a splash of color, depth and a trendy style to this basement. A seating area gives a warm and welcoming feeling.

 

This contemporary basement media room features a living room with comfortable long brown leather couch with tufted ottoman; multiple TV screens are perfect when watching movies on a weekday evening or weekend, or watching your favorite sports live. Components and other things are tucked away in the custom-built cabinets below.  Neutral, monotone colors and layout scheme makes the basement hangout open and bright.

Elegantly designed finished basement which features an arched entry leading to the home bar is an inspiration for a timeless European style design.  Light tone cabinetry provides more additional storage space.  Granite countertop blends well with the whole color scheme.  Neutral colored patterned ceramic tile flooring works well with the whole design scheme.

A sophisticated media room featuring an open plan layout design scheme features a kitchenette and bar for entertaining, a light one wood cabinetry is designed for extra storage space and at the same time doubles as an entertainment area and a working/study corner. The fireplace serves as a focal piece and makes this room warm and cozy together with the cool neutral shades of brown and tan.

Creating a space that works, this rustic wood basement with a game table centered in front of the home bar for entertaining guests, friends and other family members. Stone flooring, wood wainscot panel and custom-built railings, cabinetry and bar counter in medium tone wood finish, carpet covered stairs and flooring provides a warm and welcoming feel. See more basement flooring ideas on this gallery page.

20 valuable ways to convert your space |

(Image credit: Bisca / Future / Simon Brown)

These clever basement ideas will be essential if you are considering transforming an unfinished basement into a habitable zone – or even excavating to create one for a home built without. Converting or decorating a basement so it's a liveable space is a smart way to establish extra square footage – especially if you’ve exhausted the opportunities above ground, or prefer not to build out. 

From spacious living areas, playrooms and home offices, to specialist rooms including home gyms, movie theaters and wine storage, the opportunities for expansion are endless with a basement conversion as part of your whole house design.

Here, we’ve put together basement ideas to inspire your remodel together with expert advice for a successful project.

Basement ideas

While basement ideas can encompass a whole host of different rooms, what’s crucial to all – and to make the most of your basement – is creating sufficient light, dividing up the space successfully if it’s not to be open plan, and making the decor aesthetically pleasing as well as sympathetic to the rest of your home.

1. Prioritize basement lighting

(Image credit: Future)

It's possible that your basement lighting ideas will be compromised by the height of the ceiling, but where you can, design a scheme like you would plan living room lighting. This means considering not just function, but mood and atmosphere, too. 

So, while you might have overhead lighting, whether a stand-out fixture like the one above or simple space-saving spotlights, ensure you install decorative wall lights to make ceilings look higher, bring in table or floor lamps to create warm pools of light around the space, and even highlight architectural features with directional lights.

2. Ensure basement flooring is warm and light-reflecting

(Image credit: Simon Brown)

Basement flooring ideas need to tick many boxes: they need to be tough because it's likely your basement is used for everything from get-togethers to watch sports (think: family room ideas for inspiration) through to storage for all that family clutter you can't find space for upstairs. Basement floors also need to reflect light to make the space feel brighter and bigger; and they need to be warm-toned in order to make the room(s) feel welcoming. 

Ideally you will also choose a surface that runs throughout. Real wood looks beautiful, but engineered wood can be a tougher choice for a space that's newly built. And, like real wood, it can be refinished when it needs updating.

3. Grab as much natural light as you can

(Image credit: Bisca)

One of the most important small basement ideas you can incorporate into your design at early stages is to increase natural light. This is best done by lighting the basement with toplight – via roof windows, glazed exterior panels or even open trends and glass balustrades on your basement staircase. 

Choosing a light paint color for walls helps, too. ‘Prioritize creating a light and bright environment so it’s a place you want to be,’ says Andi Morse, founder and principal designer, Morse Design .

It's also particularly important when you are considering basement office ideas.

4. Install a light well

(Image credit: Maison Vanentina)

Glazed light wells, which can sit within a deck, patio or simply within the backyard, will bring in top light to a basement, and allow you to expand the basement's floor space beyond the footprint of the house. Or you can opt to have an interior light well, positioned near to a window on the ground floor of your home. 

Around three times brighter than side light, top light will flood basements with light, and allow you to use the walls for other purposes – whether to house a luxury bathroom, as here, for simply for storage.  

5. Use reflective surfaces

(Image credit: David Lovatti)

As well as boosting light levels, decorating with mirrors can enhance small spaces with low ceilings, so they are a real bonus for small basements. 

'Don't limit mirrors to basement bathrooms – they are a bonus in bedrooms and especially hallways and other narrow spaces where there may be no natural light at all,' advises Lucy Searle, Homes & Gardens' Editor in Chief.

6. Be creative with basement storage ideas

(Image credit: Future Publishing Ltd Photograph: Jan Baldwin)

Basement bedrooom ideas and storage needs to be well thought-out. If you have little floor space within a games' room or living space, built in storage, such as shelving, cupboards with space-efficient sliding doors or beneath lift up lids in seating are all great options. In bedrooms that are only used by guests, you can swap closet space for peg rails, but invest in a storage bed beneath which you can hide everything from spare linen to out of season clothes.

7. Make it a fun space

(Image credit: Charles Cunliffe Architects/David O.Marlow)

Planning a basement conversion is a great way to add the fun-to-have spaces to a home that you can’t sacrifice space to on the first floor. This remodel by Aspen, Colorado based Charles Cunniffe Architects transformed what was a mechanical and crawl space into a large family room with a bar, billiards and game room, plus a glazed wine store.

Bear in mind that you may need to create extra head height for a successful basement remodel. Here, the levels of the home were dropped by two feet to provide adequate ceiling heights in the basement. 

8. Install a basement bar 

(Image credit: Cult Furniture)

One of the most fun basement ideas (bar none) is a basement bar. Combine it with a games' room and you have the perfect family – and friends – hangout space. 

If you are going to install a bar in a basement, ensure there's an exit in case of fire, that ventilation is good, and that lighting has been designed in layers so that you can conjure up just the right atmosphere.

9. Opt for a playroom

(Image credit: Lyn's Design Style/Radion Photography)

If your basement ideas include creating dedicated space for kids to play – plus valuable room for toy storage – follow the lead of this project.

Boise-based design practice Lyn’s Design Style created a kids’ play zone for the family’s youngest two children, aged three and five. Packed with fun playroom ideas, the space provides a cozy nook for fun and games with the separate door and window making their space more of a feature within the living area. 

10. Boost the usefulness of a basement 

(Image credit: One Seed Architecture and Design/Janis Nicolay)

Consider grouping the super-useful and desirable spaces of a home in the basement to keep the first floor uncluttered, cleaner and quieter. We're talking devoting your space to mudroom ideas, laundry room ideas – even a kids' games room.

Designed by Vancouver-based One Seed Architecture + Design , this sleek basement accommodates a mudroom/entry, and laundry room. There’s a home gym, too, that keeps exercise equipment out of living spaces or bedrooms.

11. Brighten up the basement

(Image credit: Unique Home Construction)

Take advantage of basement ideas that will make it a light and airy part of your home. ‘The goal is to maximize ventilation, natural light and sense of connection with the outdoors,’ says James Burrell of Burrell Architects . ‘You may be able to cut back the floor above to introduce light, cut a light well all the way through the house,  or install a glass ceiling to borrow light from windows above.’

However, if the design of your home precludes these strategies, or your budget doesn’t stretch, opt for decor that will make it feel bright and open. For this subterranean space in Seattle by Unique Home Construction a bright white finish was chosen for the walls, while the ceiling joints and lumber have been left exposed and finished in matt black, increasing the feeling of height. Finished with glistening fairy lights, this shows the creativity that can be had for basement ceiling ideas.

12. Create clever space dividers

(Image credit: Mode 4 Architecture/David Meaux)

It’s possible to divide up a basement to create different zones without detracting from the open feel of the space. 

Designed by MODE4 Architecture , this basement remodel uses a two-sided open bookcase to separate the main living space from the back hall and utility areas. The project was driven by the family’s need for a space that could serve as a chill-out zone for teenagers, and a guest suite for friends and family to stay. 

13. Think texture

(Image credit: Best Practice Architecture/Ed Sozinho)

Add decorative interest to a basement remodel by opting for different textures. When Seattle-based Best Practice Architecture transformed the basement of this 1912 home into a bright and spacious family area most of the walls were painted white to enhance the airy feeling of the space, while portions of exposed brick wall and the exposed overhead timber ceiling add warmth and contrast to the space.

14. Introduce windows to a basement

(Image credit: VFA Architecture and Design/Scott Norsworthy)

Introducing windows as part of your basement ideas is highly desirable. ‘Add new windows to bring in as much natural light as possible,’ advises Sean Barnett, owner and principal architect at Portland-based Polymath Studio Architecture . ‘This is the most effective way to make your basement feel like it’s no longer a basement, but rather a comfortable, inviting part of your home.’

For the basement of this Toronto home by VFA Architecture + Design , the rear yard was stepped to create a sunken courtyard. The lower grade allowed for larger windows, channeling more natural light into the basement. Previously mainly used for storage purposes, it’s now a light-filled playroom. 

15. Benefit from the peace

(Image credit: Beige and Bleu/Tamara Flanagan)

Its separation from the rest of the home makes the basement an ideal venue for home office ideas or a study space for kids that’s quiet and away from the distractions and hustle and bustle of the other stories.

The basement in this Boston home was designed by Beige & Bleu and caters for a family of teenage girls, providing a space for them to study together with a lounge area separate from the rest of the house.

16. Boost the number of bathrooms

(Image credit: Webber Studio/Chloe Gilstrap, Jake Holt)

If you plan to incorporate a basement bedroom or guest annex in the basement, it makes sense to add a basement bathroom for convenience and ease of access. 

‘I usually recommend a full bath in the basement so you can shower after a workout or wash the dog in the basement, for example,’ says Liz Caan, founder and principal at Liz Caan & Co , a Massachusetts-based design firm. 

Bear in mind, of course, that this will require extra electrical and plumbing work and will therefore drive up overall project costs. 

This master bathroom was added to the lower level of this Freedman’s Cottage home in Austin, Texas. The original property was extended significantly as part of the remodel by Webber + Studio . The bathroom is filled with light thanks to the installation of floor to ceiling glazing to the rear of the property.

17. Work a small space

(Image credit: Hoedemaker Pfeiffer/Haris Kenjar)

Even a tiny basement can become a luxurious and functional addition to a home. In this basement renovation by Seattle-based Hoedemaker Pfeiffer , the long neglected cold storage space beneath the porch of the house was re-purposed and transformed into a contemporary wine room. Built-in joinery has been incorporated to maximize every inch of space.

18. Build out from the basement

(Image credit: Granit Architects/Andrew Beasley)

It’s worth contemplating building out as part of a basement remodel, creating a connection to the outside and simultaneously bringing in extra daylight. In this London home, Granit Architects designed a glazed double height space that ensures the basement kitchen diner is filled with natural light.

19. Select characterful materials 

(Image credit: Maximilian Hurley Construction/Tony Colangelo)

The palette of materials used to finish a basement can create a link with the remainder of your home. In this basement renovation Maximilian Huxley Construction restored the lower level of the 1903 home from two separate suites into one shared family space. 

The project was respectful of the home’s 1903 origins, and has incorporated reclaimed wood floors, countertops, shelving, stair treads and paneling. Exposed steel beams and masonry elements give the space on industrial feel.

20. Avoid blocking light

(Image credit: Future Publishing Ltd Photograph: Jonathan Gooch)

Think about fitting a glass balustrade to basement stair ideas to keep the light flowing freely through the space. Other strategies to ensure it’s light-filled? ‘Keep the space as open plan as possible to allow the available natural light to flow through the room,’ advises Kieron Bell of Kitchens International .

If the basement is the location for a kitchen, use the areas with the most light for the cooking and dining areas where you will spend most of your time, and those furthest from the natural light for ancillary rooms, such as laundry areas, pantries and storage. Glass partitions, rather than solid walls, will ensure the best light flow through the space.

What should I put in my basement?

A basement can provide space for many different rooms. You might want to consider making it a more relaxed living room while the main living room remains a more formal space. It could also be playroom for the kids, or a home library.

‘If your basement has a separate entrance, consider the uses and the flexibility this can provide,’ suggests Liz Caan. ‘Maybe a guest suite would be nice, an au pair area, a home office, or a media gaming room?'

If you plan to incorporate a bedroom or guest annex in the basement, it makes sense to add a bathroom for convenience and ease of access. 

Other uses to which a basement can be put are as a laundry room, mudroom, or maybe a space for crafts. Think about including a kitchen, or kitchenette to make entertaining easy, adding a basement bar, or creating a wine cellar.

What adds most value to a basement?

'To add the most value to your basement, you really need to think about what your home currently lacks. So, if it has no guest space or a guest bath upstairs, adding this into the basement will give you the best return on your investment,' says Lucy Searle, Editor in Chief, Homes & Gardens. 

'Equally, if you lack a family or rec room or home office, these will be a good choice, as would a laundry space or a wall of storage that can free up space upstairs. If, however you are adding a basement to your home as a bonus because your house is really well equipped, it's a great idea to add a space that future buyers can see as a lifestyle bonus, whether a home gym or wellness space, for example.

'What else can add value to a basement? Think: good lighting, well-planned, neat-looking storage, quality flooring and furniture that's well chosen to suit the space's layout.'

How much does it cost to finish a 1000 sq ft basement?

Basement conversion costs or a finishing project is largely determined by the space you’re starting out with. However, to finish a 1,000 square foot basement, you might expect to pay from around $20,000.  

However, there is an enormous range in costs. ‘It really depends on the amount of clean-up work required; for example, the relocation of existing utilities and things like the addition of a bathroom or kitchenette,’ says Christopher Tucker, principal/owner at MODE4 Architecture , a design practice based in Alexandria, Virginia. 

If your existing basement is unfinished, it’s likely that you’re working with a space that’s completely open. Putting in partition walls to zone off bedrooms and bathrooms is an addition that will drive the price up. 

Jobs that involve moving the plumbing or incorporating additional structural elements, such as digging down to create more height, add to overall costs, too. 

The cost of specialty rooms is another key consideration. Incorporating a movie theater, for instance, will require custom AV work and potentially extra sound insulation. It’s important to consider all these factors from the outset so you can get a realistic budget plan drawn up. The materials you choose will also influence costs. 

Sarah is a freelance journalist and editor. Previously executive editor of Ideal Home, she’s specialized in interiors, property and gardens for over 20 years, and covers interior design, house design, gardens, and cleaning and organizing a home for H&G. She’s written for websites, including Houzz, Channel 4’s flagship website, 4Homes, and Future’s T3; national newspapers, including The Guardian; and magazines including Future’s Country Homes & Interiors, Homebuilding & Renovating, Period Living, and Style at Home, as well as House Beautiful, Good Homes, Grand Designs, Homes & Antiques, LandLove and The English Home among others. It’s no big surprise that she likes to put what she writes about into practice, and is a serial house renovator. 

Projects of houses with a basement

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Projects found: 550

69-27 57 500 ₽

More The project of a two-storey house with a plinth of 11x13 meters, with a total area of ​​286 m 2 , made of aerated concrete (foam blocks), with a terrace, a boiler room and a kitchen-dining room

47-30 51 800 ₽

More Project of a two-storey house with a plinth of 9x9 meters, with a total area of ​​198 m 2 , made of bricks, with a terrace, a boiler room and a kitchen-dining room

42-04 75 900 ₽

More Project of a two-storey house with a plinth 17x16 meters, with a total area of ​​471 m 2 , made of bricks, with a terrace, a boiler room and a kitchen-dining room

68-04 63 300 ₽

More Project of a two-storey house with a basement of 13x13 meters, with a total area of ​​326 m 2 , made of aerated concrete (foam blocks), with terrace, boiler room and kitchen-dining room

47-79 57 500 ₽

More Project of a two-storey house with a plinth of 11x13 meters, with a total area of ​​286 m 2 , made of bricks, with a terrace, a boiler room and a kitchen-dining room

47-37 101 200 ₽

More Project of a two-storey house with a plinth 19x16 meters, with a total area of ​​484 m 2 , made of bricks, with a garage, a terrace, a boiler room and a kitchen-dining room

68-87 51 800 ₽

More Project of a two-storey house with a basement of 9x9 meters, with a total area of ​​198 m 2 , made of aerated concrete (foam blocks), with a terrace, a boiler room and a kitchen-dining room

45-98 44 100 ₽

More Project of a two-storey house with a plinth of 11x12 meters, with a total area of ​​154 m 2 , made of bricks, with a terrace, a boiler room and a kitchen-dining room

64-55 40 000 ₽

More The project of a one-story house with a basement of 13x11 meters, for two families, with a total area of ​​114 m 2 , from aerated concrete (foam blocks), with a boiler room and a kitchen-dining room

67-38 57 500 ₽

More Project of a two-storey house with a basement of 19x22 meters, with a total area of ​​279 m 2 , made of aerated concrete (foam blocks), with a garage, a terrace, a boiler room and a kitchen-dining room

68-12 57 000 ₽

More Project of a two-storey house with a basement of 17x12 meters, with a total area of ​​291 m

50-54 45 600 ₽

More Project of a house with an attic and a basement 10x11 meters, with a total area of ​​236 m 2 , from aerated concrete (foam blocks), with a second light, with a garage, a terrace and a boiler room

61-16 40 100 ₽

More Project of a house with an attic and a basement floor 14x12 meters, with a total area of ​​133 m

45-34 53 200 ₽

More Project of a two-storey house with a basement of 14x15 meters, with a total area of ​​326 m 2 , made of brick, with a second light, with a terrace, a boiler room, a loggia and a kitchen-dining room

46-71 57 000 ₽

More The project of a two-storey house with a basement of 17x12 meters, with a total area of ​​291 m 2 , brick, with garage, terrace, boiler room and kitchen-dining room

61-71 40 500 ₽

More Project of a house with an attic and a basement floor 8x10 meters, with a total area of ​​176 m 2 , made of aerated concrete (foam blocks), with a boiler room and a kitchen-dining room

66-36 40 500 ₽

More Project of a two-storey house with a plinth of 11x10 meters, with a total area of ​​170 m2

43-18 50 600 ₽

More The project of a two-storey house with a basement of 17x12 meters, with a total area of ​​293 m 2 , brick, with garage, terrace, boiler room and kitchen-dining room

45-25 59 500 ₽

More Project of a two-storey house with a basement of 15x14 meters, with a total area of ​​408 m 2 , made of brick, with a second light, with a garage, a terrace, a boiler room and a kitchen-dining room

68-70 35 000 ₽

More Project of a one-story house with a basement of 9x11 meters, with a total area of ​​58 m 2 , made of aerated concrete (foam blocks), with a terrace, a boiler room and a kitchen-dining room

As you know, there are many variants of multi-storey building organization. But the projects of country houses with a plinth stand somewhat apart in this series. After all, such a scheme has a lot of advantages, and it is gaining more and more popularity. So, the project of a private cottage with a basement (semi-basement) floor allows you to get a large, conveniently planned space without increasing the height of the building itself. And you can use this room as you like: for pantries, boiler rooms, workshops, a gym, a billiard room, an office, a cinema, even a sauna or a swimming pool. At the same time, the basement floor can be residential: it allows you to maintain a pleasant microclimate and provide the desired level of comfort (in particular, in terms of sound insulation). And in the house, with a basement, it is even warmer. True, there is one important subtlety. A high-quality project of a house with a basement must meet a number of requirements. There are enough of them: from the height of the ceilings to ventilation and competent waterproofing. If they are not taken into account, the basement will only bring disappointment. Therefore, it is better to contact the Plans company. Here you will find more than 500 (!) projects of houses made of bricks, foam blocks, rounded wood - and all of them with a really thoughtful basement. Nearly 20 years of experience allow architects to highlight all the key points when developing documentation: from layouts to the technologies and materials used. Therefore, projects of houses and cottages ranging from 100 to 2000 square meters with a basement from our company will only please you.

Projects of houses with a basement

Projects of houses with a basement are always popular and in demand. Such suburban buildings have many advantages. The cost of a project involving a basement and an attic will be much lower than that of a two-story house. Due to the basement, you can increase the usable area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe building and free up space on the ground floor. The project of a house with a plinth is especially beneficial when your site is small. Using these advantages, you can organize the layout of the premises in the most rational way. Anything can be placed in the basement: a utility room, a billiard room, a cellar. The attic floor will not only decorate the facade of the building, but will be a useful addition in terms of functionality. The House Expert company offers a wide range of building projects with a basement and an attic for every taste. If you cannot find a suitable one among the ready-made options, then we will create an individual project for you, taking into account all the additions of the requirement.

Projects of houses with a basement and an attic

Projects of houses with a basement and an attic have recently become more and more interesting to customers. By ordering construction according to such a project, the client saves his budget, losing very little internal space due to the sloping ceilings of the room. But this nuance is more than offset by other advantages. An attic will cost much less than a full-fledged floor, since it does not need wall building materials (for example, brick), and can also do without finishing. Similar materials in the attic building project replace the truss structure, insulation and roofing. The attic is very interesting and popular also because it involves an almost endless flight of design ideas. Non-standard wall geometry and window shapes, a variety of niches, ceilings and beams - you can use all these factors at your discretion. And now, sloping ceilings are transformed from a disadvantage into an obvious plus: dead zones of a trapezoidal shape are great for installing shelving and organizing niches for storing things, etc. The greater the angle of inclination, the more spacious the attic seems. The projects of buildings with an attic offered by us suggest various options for planning the upper floor - from studios to individual rooms. Thanks to new building materials and finishes, the attic will easily become another comfortable room that can keep warm and cozy at any time of the year. In addition, this is always the most beloved and bright place in the house.

Projects of houses with a basement and a garage

Projects of houses with a basement and a garage are presented in a wide range in our online catalog.

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