Interior design ideas for basements


30 Modern Basement Remodel Ideas

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You’ll be shocked by how much it increases your home’s value.

By Lucia Tonelli

Design: Liz Caan/Photo: Eric Roth

Does your basement feel more like an unused dungeon than a stylish space to hang out in? For more homeowners than not, a basement is merely a storage space for unwanted furniture or boxes full of who knows what. By letting this square footage go to waste, you're missing out on prime interior real estate, which can ultimately decrease the value of your home. Plus, what better place to have fun with design than a room secluded from the rest of your house?

Before you begin remodeling, there are some important factors to consider. "As with any room, the first important step is to think about what the space will be used for," says designer Christine Markatos Lowe. "Do you mostly use it during the day or at night? Will there need to be plumbing installed, for add-ons like a bathroom or a wetbar? Will it be a kids space or more for adults and entertaining?" she adds. Once you've nailed down your purpose, there are several factors to contend with. Since basements are typically windlowless or very dim, appropriate lighting is key. "Typically the ceiling height is going to be pretty low, so installing recessed can lights or low-profile flush mounts is a must," Markatos says. "Treating the ceiling as a fifth surface area to play with is also a great way to bring in some more interest through wallpaper or paint to an otherwise dark and flat area. "

Still unsure where to go from here? Read below for 30 surprisingly stylish basement ideas that will transform the look—and value—of your home.

1

Warm things up with a Modern Faux Fireplace

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Set up Extra Seating Behind the Couches

3

Turn the Space into a Craft Room

4

Shiplap the Walls for a Cozier Feel

5

Install a Formal Projector Screen

6

Opt for Cinema-Themed Decor

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Add Recessed Lighting to Give the Illusion of Higher Ceilings

8

Go Bold With Eclectic Patterns

9

Keep the Palette White and Bright

10

Transform an Awkward Corner into a Stylish Storage Space

11

Add a Corner Kitchen Space for Easy Access to Snacks

12

Finish Concrete Floors With a Striking Lacquer

13

Line the Ceiling with Warm String Lights

14

Experiment With a Fun Design Theme

15

Install Storage Beneath the Stairs

16

Construct a Bar Beneath the Stairs

17

Welcome Guests with a Movie-Themed Stairwell

18

Stick a Half-Bath Under the Stairs

19

Install Barn Doors to Break up the Space

20

Dedicate a Corner to Laundry

21

. ..Or Make it a Full Laundry Room

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Turn it into a Guest Bedroom

23

Amp Up the Luxury With a Statement Ceiling

24

Build Adult-Appropriate Bunk Beds

25

Choose a Chalkboard Accent Wall

26

Let the Games Take Center Stage

27

Add Family Photos for a Personal Feel

28

Create a Dedicated Workspace

29

Embrace an Industrial Design Scheme

30

Go Bold With a Statement Staircase

Lucia Tonelli Assistant Editor Lucia Tonelli is an Assistant Editor at Town & Country, where she writes about the royal family, culture, real estate, design, and more.  

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Finished Basement Ideas: Pro Tips to Add Livable Space

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Modern day finished basement ideas mean the lower level of your home no longer has to be an underutilized, dark and dingy space. This part of your home can offer a whole other level of living, while dramatically increasing the value and square footage of your home. From cozy lounges to chic bedrooms and home cinemas, basements can transform to fit any need. Explore our pro tips for the best finished basement ideas below!

Basement Remodel Ideas Quick Tips & Tricks

Basement remodel ideas by Decorilla designer, Lisa W.

Anything is possible with the know-how. Similarly, simple finished basement ideas become doable when you have the basics. Here are the helpful design tips to making your home’s lowest level a success. 

1. Focus on an Interest 

Does one of your interests or hobbies need more room or an isolated space? Make your basement the place where this is easily prioritized. After all, fun also needs time – whether it’s music, crafts, or fitness. With this in mind, work with basement design ideas best suited to your interest.

Need help bringing your finished basement ideas to life? Then, schedule a Free Interior Design Consultation to work with a professional basement designer today!

2. Choose a Function 

Sports lounge basement design ideas by Decorilla interior designer, Laura A.

A basement can play many roles. Let it fill the gap in your home by assessing what you need most. Do you need more storage, privacy, or a complete escape from the outside world? The beauty of this is that you don’t need to pick only one. With a few clever basement design ideas, the space can multitask. A man cave, for instance, can easily double as a home cinema or a bar to entertain friends at. 

3. Light it Right

An unfinished basement can be dark. Luckily, with illuminating design ideas, this can be a thing of the past. Since natural light is often not an option, you can choose artificial light to set the tone for your space. Of course, layering lighting is a great starting point. In fact, the three basic types are the building blocks of successful design. These include ambient, task, and accent lighting. 

Keep in mind basements often need space-saving solutions. Options better for more headspace include downlights, wall sconces, and festoon lights. Whatever you choose, be sure to make lighting a top priority when implementing your basement remodel ideas.

Exclusive basement living by Decorilla designer, Darya N.

A basement remodel is worth it when done correctly. It can increase the value of your home, especially if it’s finished to a professional standard. But it can be quite a project. Enlisting the help of a basement designer can save you time, money, and frustration. 

A Guiding Hand

With a designer on board, your basement remodeling ideas have a head start. In fact, a professional will know the specific challenges basements present. This will certainly quicken the process and save you resources. When you have a look in mind, a basement designer will be able to interpret your design. They’ll also find the most economical way forward to get your finished basement ideas off the ground. 

Online or Traditional Design 

Finished basement design with a bar by Decorilla designer, Farzaneh K.

Nowadays, you can choose between in-person or affordable online interior design packages. Depending on the scale of your project, you can go either way. Just remember that both options will usually require a contractor if your work includes a major overhaul. Traditional services generally take longer when compared to online alternatives and often cost more.  

Small Finished Basement Ideas

Simple finished basement ideas by Decorilla designer, Drew F.

Space limitations are not always negative. It can lead to exceptional furniture design or magically intimate spaces. So, use your restriction to guide your basement remodel ideas by setting a more focused or themed tone.

Time Capsule

Small finished basement ideas by Decorilla designer, Courtney B.

Contemporary design rules can take a backseat here. Allow this extension to be a place where you can be sentimental. Display the furniture or decor items that are perhaps a little outdated and put them on center stage. Celebrate that 70’s couch and build a wooden panel accent wall for it, or frame the artwork you’ve been saving for a special day. With limited space, a theme brings purpose and order and allows you to make the most of the square footage. 

Farmhouse Practicality

If you want more than one room, consider including sliding doors into your basement remodel ideas. Not only are barn doors functional and space-saving, but they also give a rustic country feel. You can also make hidden storage or eyesores attractive with a shiplap cover.  

Basement Designs With a Bar

Basement design with a bar by Decorilla designer, Laura A.

Add a touch of exclusivity to your basement design ideas with a bar. Few things say ‘Invite Only’ as clearly as a moody underground lounge coupled with elegant design.

Paired with Play

When it comes to making the most of your basement remodel ideas, setting a purpose is vital. For instance, a bar pairs well with a game room. If you have enough space, create an impressive seating area separate from the play zone. But if you don’t, a wall-lined bar can still provide more than what you need. In such instances, a floor-to-ceiling wine fridge or rack can make quite the focal point. 

Small but Punchy

Whether it’s over budget or too big, a full bar is not always possible. Fortunately, you can still make tasty drinks in style. Basement designs with cocktail cabinets or slim bar ideas also ensure that space never becomes an issue. Plus, cabinets allow you to shuffle the layout whenever you feel like it.

Simple Finished Basement Ideas

In this day and age, no one will blame you for wanting to keep things uncomplicated. With simple finished basement design ideas, you can create a space to declutter your mind.

Low Profile

Select functional furniture with a compact structure. Finished basement ceilings tend to be low, so it’s best to incorporate ideas that give an illusion of height. If you like Japanese or Scandinavian design, this is the perfect opportunity to indulge. Sleek and minimal profiles with cozy textures can work wonders in a small space. 

Mindfully Natural

Basement design ideas by Decorilla designer, Drew F.

Use a color palette that instills a sense of tranquility and calm. Natural hues work well to this end. Sandy browns or stone colors with green and blue undertones are especially popular. You can take it a step further with a textured painting technique, such as rag painting or sponging. This way, neutral colors have more depth and interest. 

Finished Basement Ceiling Ideas

Finished basement ceiling ideas by Decorilla designer, Farzaneh K.

Whether covered or exposed, finished basement ceiling ideas can lead to a beautiful interior feature. 

Show Off Structure

Add drama to your basement design ideas and leave the ceiling structure exposed. After some tidying up and a coat of slate grey or muted pastel paint, the basement structure can make a stylish statement.

A Swing’s Anchor

Let the lowest level of your house be the base of lightness and fun. Finished basement design certainly won’t be complete without a whimsical element and ceiling ideas can help. After all, a ceiling-mounted swing or day bed can keep the whole family playful. 

Finished Basement Bedroom Ideas

Finished basement bedroom ideas by Decorilla designer, Mladen C.

A basement remodel can even increase the number of bedrooms in your home. Transforming a low-light space into a frequently used room, like a teenage or guest bedroom, could require the help of a basement designer. That said, the results will be character-rich, making it extra special. 

A Cozy Guest Room

Finished basement bedroom ideas don’t have to be elaborate. Stick to basic design and execute it perfectly. To this end, ensure your guests have enough storage, good lighting, and comfy bedding. The color scheme can be unfussy, like white with one or two accent tones. This will make a great space for guests to relax in as it’s far from the hustle and bustle of the home’s center. 

Studio Living

Basement studio remodel ideas by Decorilla designer, Farzaneh K.

With a roomier basement, you can design a complete studio. This can either work for a family member wanting more independence or as a rental. Depending on your budget, you can include everything from a kitchenette, and en suite to a lounge area.  

A Basement Designer is Within Reach 

Do you need help bringing your basement design ideas to life? Then, schedule a Free Interior Design Consultation to learn more about your design options today!

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Basements - 55 best basement and basement design photo ideas in a private house has Waypoint 650F door style cabinets in Painted Harbor on the perimeter and 650F door style cabinets in Cherry Slate on the island with Cambria Skara Brae quartz on the countertop. A bathroom was created and installed a Waypoint DT24F door style vanity cabinet in Duraform Drift with Carrara Black quartz countertops. In the shower, Wow Liso Ice subway tile was installed with custom shower door. On the floor is Elode gray deco tile. A movie room and popcorn/snack area was created using Waypoint 650F door style in Cherry Slate with Madera wood countertops.


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

Chan Basement

Knight Construction Design Inc.

3

Home-style inspiration: medium-sized neoclassical (modern classic) basement with access to the outside, gray walls and carpeting

Interior Renovations

Legacy Contracting LLC

classic) with gray walls, laminate flooring, brown flooring and exterior windows without fireplace c

Finished Basement Game Room Built-In Shelves

Lasley Brahaney Architecture + Construction

Basement finished to include game room, family room, shiplap wall treatment, sliding barn door and matching beam, numerous built-ins, new staircase, home gym, locker room and bathroom in addition to wine bar area.

Downingtown Finished Basement: Theater/Bar Area, Kids Area and Powder Room

TATCOR Building & Remodeling

Due to the limited space and the budget, we chose to install a wall bar versus a two-level bar front. The wall bar included white cabinetry below a white/grey quartz counter top, open wood shelving, a drop-in sink, beverage cooler, and full fridge. For an excellent entertaining area along with a great view to the large projection screen, a half wall bar height top was installed with bar stool seating for four and custom lighting. The AV projectors were a great solution for providing an awesome entertainment area at reduced costs. HDMI cables and cat 6 wires were installed and run from the projector to a closet where the Yamaha AV receiver as placed giving the room a clean simple look along with the projection screen and speakers mounted on the walls.

Silverleaf Estates Basement Reno

Bearded Builders

Inspiration for home comfort: large modern basement with access to the outside, white walls, light parquet and beige floors without a fireplace

U N I Q U E

3


Rustic Chic Basement Overhaul

Gardner/Fox Associates, Inc

This rustic-inspired basement includes an entertainment area, two bars, and a gaming area. The renovation created a bathroom and guest room from the original office and exercise room. To create the rustic design the renovation used different naturally textured finishes, such as Coretec hard pine flooring, wood-look porcelain tile, wrapped support beams, walnut cabinetry, natural stone backsplashes, and fireplace surround,

Modern Basement Kitchen

Closed

We really enjoyed consulting and designing this basement project design and I’m very pleased with how it turned out! We did a complimenting color scheme between the wall and base cabinets by using a gray for the base and white for the wall. We did black handle pulls for all the cabinets to bring the two colors together. We went with a white oak style for the floor to really bring the light through the entire basement. This helps carry the light through the space which is always a good idea when you don't have many windows to play with. For the backsplash we chose a glossy textured/wavy subway tile to add some depth and texture to the kitchens character. I really enjoyed consulting this basement project design and I’m very pleased with how it turned out! We did a complimenting color scheme between the wall and base cabinets by using a gray for the base and white for the wall. We did black handle pulls for all the cabinets to bring the two colors together. We went with a white oak style for the floor to really bring the light through the entire basement. This helps carry the light through the space which is always a good idea when you don't have many windows to play with. For the backsplash we chose a glossy textured/wavy subway tile to add some depth and texture to the kitchens character.I really enjoyed consulting this basement project design and I’m very pleased with how it turned out! We did a complimenting color scheme between the wall and base cabinets by using a gray for the base and white for the wall. We did black handle pulls for all the cabinets to bring the two colors together. We went with a white oak style for the floor to really bring the light through the entire basement. This helps carry the light through the space which is always a good idea when you don't have many windows to play with. For the backsplash we chose a glossy textured/wavy subway tile to add some depth and texture to the kitchens character.I really enjoyed consulting this basement project design and I’m very pleased with how it turned out! We did a complimenting color scheme between the wall and base cabinets by using a gray for the base and white for the wall. We did black handle pulls for all the cabinets to bring the two colors together. We went with a white oak style for the floor to really bring the light through the entire basement. This helps carry the light through the space which is always a good idea when you don't have many windows to play with. For the backsplash we chose a glossy textured/wavy subway tile to add some depth and texture to the kitchens character.

Sports Lover's Dream Basement in West Chester, PA

Rudloff Custom Builders

In a corner of the basement we created a play area. The nook has a shiplap wall, and tons of storage, from the reclaimed old heart pine shelves to the drawers beneath the seat. Welcome to this sports lover's paradise in West Chester, PA! We started with the completely blank palette of an unfinished basement and created space for everyone in the family by adding a main television watching space, a play area, a bar area, a full bathroom and an exercise room. The floor is COREtek engineered hardwood, which is waterproof and durable, and great for basements and floors that might take a beating. Combining wood, steel, tin and brick, this modern farmhouse looking basement is chic and ready to host family and friends to watch sporting events! Rudloff Custom Builders has won Best of Houzz for Customer Service in 2014, 2015 2016, 2017 and 2019. We also were voted Best of Design in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 which only 2% of professionals receive. Rudloff Custom Builders has been featured on Houzz in their Kitchen of the Week, What to Know About Using Reclaimed Wood in the Kitchen as well as included in their Bathroom WorkBook article. We are a full service, certified remodeling company that covers all of the Philadelphia suburban area. This business, like most others, developed from a friendship of young entrepreneurs who wanted to make a difference in their clients’ lives, one household at a time. This relationship between partners is much more than a friendship. Edward and Stephen Rudloff are brothers who have renovated and built custom homes together paying close attention to detail. They are carpenters by trade and understand concept and execution. Rudloff Custom Builders will provide services for you with the highest level of professionalism, quality, detail, punctuality and craftsmanship, every step of the way along our journey together. Specializing in residential construction allows us to connect with our clients early in the design phase to ensure that every detail is captured as you imagined. One stop shopping is essentially what you will receive with Rudloff Custom Builders from design of your project to the construction of your dreams, executed by on-site project managers and skilled craftsmen. Our concept: envision our client's ideas and make them a reality. Our mission: CREATING LIFETIME RELATIONSHIPS BUILT ON TRUST AND INTEGRITY. Photo Credit: Linda McManus Images

Naperville Basement Remodel 2

Matrix Basement Systems, Inc.

Photo of a large neoclassical (modern classic) basement with access to the outside, gray walls, vinyl floor, horizontal fireplace, stone fireplace front and gray floor from

Basement design in a private house - basement ideas

The basement is usually the least attractive place in the house. This is because it is customary to store unnecessary things, old furniture, tools, jars of pickles, sports / garden equipment and other utensils here. The result of such "warehousing" is complete chaos, accompanied by a lot of inconvenience during the operation of the premises. But everything could be different! The design of the basement in a private house is easy to turn into a habitable corner of a family vacation.

Basement Upgrade Steps

If you decide to do a complete basement remodel, there are a number of steps to take. Long-term stay of people in a semi-underground room requires the creation of comfortable conditions, for which it is necessary to carry out the following engineering systems:

- ventilation. Being practically underground, the basement is deprived of the possibility for natural ventilation. Therefore, it is necessary to create a forced air exchange system with a powerful exhaust structure;

- heating. The onset of cold weather is especially acutely felt on the ground floor. In order to ensure a comfortable temperature regime for the body (not lower than 20 degrees Celsius), it is recommended to carry out heating in the interior of the basement of the house. It will not be superfluous to install a system of underfloor heating. To save on heating, the walls can be finished with heat-insulating material. Thermal insulation prevents heat loss and increases the energy efficiency of the room;

- plumbing. A water supply system will be needed if a bathroom or pool is located in the basement. In other cases, you can do without it. In addition, the water supply will need to be connected to the sewer, which is often located above the basement. Special pumps help to ensure the normal functioning of the sewer, pulling water up.

- electrical networks. Due to the lack of daylight (or its partial penetration through small windows under the ceiling), it is necessary to organize an artificial lighting system in the room. In addition, electrical wiring will be needed to connect household and electronic appliances;

- other networks. To equip a cinema hall, a gambling zone or a work area, TV and Internet cables should be laid in the basement.

Home basement design ideas

What can a basement be made into? - you ask. Yes, whatever! If in the residential part of the house there is no way to allocate space for your own hobby or fun, feel free to implement the project on the ground floor. We offer to consider the latest ideas for the rational use of space in the basement.

Technical room. Household appliances such as boilers and boilers rarely fit into the overall concept of a living space. So, why not take these devices, together with all utilities, to the basement? Here they will always have free access, and there is no need to worry about their compatibility with the environment.

Laundry. Despite the attractive appearance of modern washing machines and dryers, it is far from always possible to choose a model that would suit a bathroom or kitchen project. In view of this, the design of the basement in a private house can be “tailored” to laundry needs: connect household appliances, arrange a drying and ironing area.

Gym. The ground floor is a great place for sports. Instead of one simulator, usually hiding in the corner of the room or in a closet, it is possible to install a full-fledged set of simulators here. To equip the hall, it is necessary to lay a solid floor covering, and close up the walls with soundproofing material. Thus, the noise from the work of sports equipment will not interfere with the rest of the household in the main part of the house. It is desirable to make one of the walls mirrored so that the room seems more spacious.

Children's world. Parents often forbid their children to run and play outdoor games in living rooms. But a mobile baby needs space so much! Why not transform the interior of the basement of the house into a children's area? Here the child will be able to play, play sports or frolic with friends without fear of disturbing adults.

Billiard room. This idea will appeal to the strong half of humanity, and the beautiful half will not mind such a lounge area in the house. When decorating a room, special attention should be paid to lighting. Above the billiard table it is necessary to organize uniform ceiling lighting; in the rest of the basement, you can get by with spotlights or sconces. In addition to the billiard table, the lounge area is often equipped with a seating area, a small table and a bar, creating comfortable conditions for friendly gatherings.

Home entertainment room. Spacious + distance from the residential area = the perfect place to create an amusement park. Equipping a cinema hall or a play area with machine guns and set-top boxes in the basement, you can immediately cut off loud sounds from the bedroom, living room or nursery. In addition to electronics, a soft corner and, if possible, a small refrigerator are placed in the basement for convenience when watching movies.

Workshop, hobby room. The design of the basement of the house can be designed taking into account the hobbies of the household. Does playing drums (violin, piano, trumpet, etc.) prevent your loved ones from relaxing? It doesn't matter: create your own music studio in the basement - you can hardly find a more isolated place! Of course, the basement can be turned into an art workshop, a modeling corner, a repair shop and.


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