Unique Basement Style Elements for Your Remodel
Basements have so much more potential than just basic “finished” spaces that add a bit more square footage to your home. More than anything, your basement should be an extension of the upstairs – a place that’s both fun and usable. All you have to do is get a bit creative.
So today, we’re taking you on a tour of our favorite basement features to give you inspiration for your own project. Let’s get started!
Kid Forts
Most people, by default, use that forgotten space underneath the steps for storage only. It’s handy, yes, but why not transform it into a space that gets plenty of use instead? Kid forts are perfect for this, whether you opt to add a miniature playhouse, or keep the tiny “room” as an open and airy reading nook. They’ll LOVE having a play space all to themselves, and with a designated space for them to stretch their imaginations, you’re less likely to have a full basement takeover (gotta have some space for the adults, too!).
Drink Ledges
Built-in drink ledges are essential for basements. Not only do they provide a convenient spot for snacks and beverages, but they also help to define the space and add an extra layer or level of seating.
Ceiling Details
Basements can be tricky to design, especially since there’s usually exposed duct work that drops down below upper floor joists. But rather than resorting to covering every surface with suspended ceiling tiles (which can make the room feel cramped), use ducts to your advantage by intentionally designing dropped soffits that define spaces and create architectural interest.
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Pops of Personality
Details are everything in your basement! Show your personality with an interactive chalkboard wall, add beams for extra ceiling dimension, or opt for shiplap to add texture to the space. Whatever you’re drawn to in design, the basement is the perfect place to let that style come through. Remember – if you’re intentional with the overall space, it’ll feel more like a used and loved part of your home instead of a totally separate realm.
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TV/Fireplace Feature Walls
Having a feature wall in your basement is not only visually stunning, but it’s also a great way to make the room functional. You can go for a fireplace, mount a TV, add shelves, or do a combo of all three. Whichever option you choose, a feature wall is important to help anchor the space, allowing you to position your furniture easily around it.
RELATED: Fireplace Feature Walls Ideas and Inspiration
Sport Courts
Why wait for summer to enjoy an outdoor at-home basketball game? With a sport court, you’ve got a gym year round. Transform your basement into the ultimate workout zone, and we promise it’ll be a hit for both adults and kids.
Theater Seating
Whether on a platform or level with the rest of the basement, theater seating is one of our favorite features. It makes movie viewing an unforgettable experience and turns your basement into a prime entertainment zone. Just grab some popcorn, pour an ice cold soda, and you’ve got a setup that rivals the best movie theaters in town.
RELATED: Home Theater Ideas and Inspiration
Ready to start your own renovation? Be sure to check out my 5 Tips to a Stress-Free Remodel Guide.
By Megan Johansson, Contributor to Carla Bast Design
6 Responses
Great and practical basement ideas! I love the ceiling design ideas that incorporate the ductwork into soffits instead of resorting to the dreaded dropped ceiling!
And now I want a kid fort.
Those beams look great in a basement!
Theater seating in basement is like the best basement remodeling idea i have read so far. I will get an estimate. Hope it’s in my budget.
I really liked the way you displayed features like fireplaces and TVs and how you can use them for a basement project. We have a lot of spare space in our basement that’s not currently used, so we figured we could work around this and turn it into a full-fledged room for us to relax in. With that in mind, if I can find a basement remodeling project, I’ll make sure that we follow your tips and use these kinds of fixtures in that room.
My sister would like to have her basement area fixed since it looks a bit outdated. Thank you for sharing here as well the importance of using eh right ducts. I also agree with you that it would be smarter to invest in new lights.