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Home basement design ideas


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. 

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.

Basements - 55 Best Basement and Basement Design Photo Ideas

Omaha, Nebraska Residence- Interior Design for New Build

Haven Design and Construction

The expansive basement entertainment area features a tv room, a kitchenette and a custom bar for entertaining. The custom entertainment center and bar areas feature bright blue cabinets with white oak accents. Lucite and gold cabinet hardware adds a modern touch. The sitting area features a comfortable sectional sofa and geometric accent pillows that mimic the design of the kitchenette backsplash tile. The kitchenette features a beverage fridge, a sink, a dishwasher and an undercounter microwave drawer. The large island is a favorite hangout spot for the clients' teenage children and family friends. The convenient kitchenette is located on the basement level to prevent frequent trips upstairs to the main kitchen. The custom bar features lots of storage for bar ware, glass display cabinets and white oak display shelves. Locking liquor cabinets keep the alcohol out of reach for the younger generation. nine0007

Sports Themed Basement Renovation

Lynn Ronan Design

Original design example of an underground, large neoclassical (modern classic) basement with beige walls, laminate flooring and gray floors without a fireplace

Temptation Gray Bar

Thyme

& Place Design LLC

When my client had to move from her company office to work at home, she set up in the dining room. Despite her best efforts, this was not the long-term solution she was looking for. My client realized she needed a dedicated space not on the main floor of the home. On one hand, having your office space right next to the kitchen is handy. On the other hand, it made separating work and home life was not that easy. The house was a ranch. In essence, the basement would run the entire length of the home. As we came down the steps, we entered a time capsule. The house was built in the 1950's. The walls were covered with original knotty pine paneling. There was a wood burning fireplace and considering this was a basement, high ceilings. In addition, there was everything her family could not store at their own homes. As we wound though the space, I though “wow this has potential”, Eventually, after walking through the laundry room we came to a small nicely lit room. This would be the office. My client looked at me and asked what I thought. Undoubtedly, I said, this can be a great workspace, but do you really want to walk through this basement and laundry to get here? Without reservation, my client said where do we start? Once the design was in place, we started the renovation. The knotty pine paneling had to go. Specifically, to add some insulation and control the dampness and humidity. The laundry room wall was relocated to create a hallway to the office. At the far end of the room, we designated a workout zone. Weights, mats, exercise bike and television are at the ready for morning or afternoon workouts. The space can be concealed by a folding screen for party time. Doors to an old closet under the stairs were relocated to the workout area for hidden storage. Now we had a nice wall for a beautiful console and mirror for storage and serving during parties. In order to add architectural details, we covered the old ugly support columns with simple recessed millwork panels. This detail created a visual division between the bar area and the seating area in front of the fireplace. The old red brick on the fireplace surround was replaced with stack stone. A mantle was made from reclaimed wood. Additional reclaimed wood floating shelves left and right of the fireplace provides decorative display while maintaining a rustic element balancing the copper end table and leather swivel rocker. We found an amazing rug which tied all of the colors together further defining the gathering space. Russet and burnt orange became the accent color unifying each space. With a bit of whimsy, a rather unusual light fixture which looks like roots from a tree growing through the ceiling is a conversation piece. The office space is quite and removed from the main part of the basement. There is a desk large enough for multiple screens, a small bookcase holding office supplies and a comfortable chair for conference calls. Because working from home requires many online meetings, we added a shiplap wall painted in Hale Navy to contrast with the orange fabric on the chair. We finished the decor with a painting from my client's father. This is the background online visitors will see. The last and best part of the renovation is the beautiful bar. My client is an avid collector of wine. She already had the EuroCave refrigerator, so I incorporated it into the design. The cabinets are painted Temptation Gray from Benjamin Moore. The counter tops are my favorite hard working quartzite Brown Fantasy. The backsplash is a combination of rustic wood and old tin ceiling like porcelain tiles. Together with the textures of the reclaimed wood and hide poofs balanced against the smooth finish of the cabinets, we created a comfortable luxury for relaxing. There is ample storage for bottles, cans, glasses, and anything else you can think of for a great party. In addition to the wine storage, we incorporated a beverage refrigerator, an ice maker, and a sink. Floating shelves with integrated lighting illuminate the back bar. The raised height of the front bar provides the perfect wine tasting and paring spot. I especially love the pendant lights which look like wine glasses. Finally, I selected carpet for the stairs and office. It is perfect for noise reduction. Meanwhile for the overall flooring, I specifically selected a high-performance vinyl plank floor. We often use this product as it is perfect to install on a concrete floor. It is soft to walk on, easy to clean and does not reduce the overall height of the space. nine0007

Charles Family Friendly Lower Level

Liston Design Build

Fresh Design Idea: Large Neoclassical (Modern Classic) Basement with Exterior Windows, Home Bar, Gray Walls, Vinyl Flooring and Brown Flooring - Great Interior Photo

56th Street Project

Restor Homes

Basement reno,
Design idea for a medium sized country style underground basement with a home bar, white walls, carpet, gray floors, wood ceiling and paneling on part of wall

Liberty Lake Basement Wet Bar

Kimberlee Kristine

A fresh design idea for a mid-sized neoclassical (modern classic) basement with access to the outside, gray walls, laminate flooring, standard fireplace, stone fireplace front and brown floor - great interior photo

Industrial Basement

JR Custom Living

Fresh design idea: loft style basement with exterior windows, brown walls, medium hardwood floors and brown floor without fireplace - great interior photo

Chan Basement

Knight Construction Design Inc.

Home Inspiration: Mid-size neoclassical (modern classic) basement with access to the outside, gray walls and carpeting

Basement

J. Silver Design Build LLC.

Original design example of an underground, huge modern style basement with white walls, dark parquet floors and a horizontal fireplace

Basement TV Wall for Home Theater

FBC Remodel

©Finished Basement Company
Photo of a medium-sized rustic basement with access to the outside, beige walls, medium hardwood floors, double sided fireplace, stone fireplace front and brown flooring

Basement Remodel

Albers Design LLC

Photo of a large neoclassical (modern classic) basement with exterior windows, gray walls, carpeted floors, beige floors, a stone fireplace front, and a games room with

Residential Basement Polish - Living Room

Dancer Concrete Design

This client came to us looking for a space that would allow their children a place to hang out while still feeling at home. The versatility of finished concrete flooring works well to adapt to a variety of home styles, and works seamlessly with this Craftsman-style home. We worked with the client to decide that a darker reactive stain would really make the space feel warm, inviting, and comfortable. The look and feel of the floor with this stain selection would be similar to the pictures they provided of the look they were targeting when we started the selection process. The clients really embraced the existing cracks in the concrete, and thought they exhibited the character of the house – and we agree. When our team works on residential projects, it is imperative that we keep everything as clean and mess-free as possible for the client. For this reason, our first step was to apply RAM Board throughout the house where our equipment would be traveling. Tape and 24″ plastic were also applied to the walls of the basement to protect them. The original floor was rather new concrete with some cracks. Our team started by filling the cracks with a patching product. The grinding process then began, concrete reactive stain was applied in the color Wenge Wood, and then the floor was sealed with our two step concrete densification and stain-guard process. The 5 step polishing process was finished by bringing the floor to a 800-grit level. We were excited to see how the space came together after the rest of construction, which was overseen by the contractor Arbor Homes, was complete. View the gallery below to take a look! nine0007

Old Westbury Wine Cellar

Chango & Co.

Interior Design, Interior Architecture, Construction Administration, Custom Millwork & Furniture Design by Chango & Co. Photography by Jacob Snavely
Stylish design: underground, huge neoclassical (modern classic) basement with gray walls, dark parquet floors and a horizontal fireplace - the latest trend

West Hills 24

Otto/Walker Architects

: medium sized modern style basement with access to the outside, white walls, carpeting, standard fireplace, stone fireplace front and beige floor - excellent interior photo

Omaha, Nebraska Residence- Interior Design for New Build

Haven Design and Construction

The expansive basement entertainment area features a tv room, a kitchenette and a custom bar for entertaining. The custom entertainment center and bar areas feature bright blue cabinets with white oak accents. Lucite and gold cabinet hardware adds a modern touch. The sitting area features a comfortable sectional sofa and geometric accent pillows that mimic the design of the kitchenette backsplash tile. The kitchenette features a beverage fridge, a sink, a dishwasher and an undercounter microwave drawer. The large island is a favorite hangout spot for the clients' teenage children and family friends. The convenient kitchenette is located on the basement level to prevent frequent trips upstairs to the main kitchen. The custom bar features lots of storage for bar ware, glass display cabinets and white oak display shelves. Locking liquor cabinets keep the alcohol out of reach for the younger generation. nine0007

Basement design: the best ideas - Articles - Atmosphere of style

Any dark abandoned room can be turned into candy

If you have a basement in your house, then you can be considered a real lucky one. Not everyone can boast of another extra room in which you can realize all your wildest dreams. Basement design is a matter of your taste. But many use it as a pantry or store unnecessary things there. After a while, it turns into a frightening place with a web, which you don’t even want to go into. And in vain, because it can be used to good use. But here the question arises: what to transform it into? Let's think. nine0003

Wine cellar

Probably everyone at least once in their life thought about their own wine cellar in the basement. And this is actually a great idea! Especially for true connoisseurs of a noble drink. Where to start reincarnation and basement design ? Put some special racks for storing bottles and add a couple of accessories to the interior. It'll be enough. You can also carry out LED lighting or purchase ready-made furniture. In addition to the practical function, it will also perform an aesthetic one, and will also become a source of artificial light. nine0003

Billiard bar

Don't like wine? There is a way out. Home bar-billiards will not only be a pleasant place to spend time with your family, but will also be a great occasion to meet with friends. Don't try too hard to decorate it. Protruding pipes and brick walls are the best attributes of the loft style. Lovers of comfort and sophistication can purchase a beautiful billiard table with expensive cloth, a bar counter made of precious wood and comfortable chairs. All this will create a unique house basement design.

Gym

Can't live without sports? Then this option is for you! Especially if the size of the basement allows it. Earlier we already wrote about the correct placement of exercise equipment in the interior of a living room or bedroom. It is even easier to do this on the basement floor of the house, because all the doors are open for your imagination: an empty large room without any frames. You can even place a bowling alley here if your budget and size allow. Arrange sports equipment and choose the right lighting, because no one likes to work out in the twilight. You can also organize a bar counter or even make a pool. nine0003

Home cinema

If you are a connoisseur of cinema and spend every evening watching a movie, then organize a cinema in the basement. Furnish the room with comfortable chairs and a good sound system and buy a large LED TV or projector. It will not be superfluous to decorate basement design in a private house with posters of your favorite actors. The style of the cinema hall can be anything - from hi-tech to oriental. The most important thing is your preferences.

Lounge

Is the basement well heated? Then this is a great option to transform it into a living room, living room or even a dining room. The style of the interior depends on your financial capabilities and preferences. It can be anything: loft, country, classic, shabby chic. And in it you can collect all the things that are dear to you and turn it into an eclectic-style relaxation room.

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