7 Spaces to Design When Renovating a Basement
Create authentic styles.
A basement is to a house like icing is to a cake.When renovating a basement, consider these seven spaces to create a beautiful, well-designed addition to a home.
1. The Space Under the Stairs
When designing a basement renovation, many people forget about the space under the stairs.
This space can be opened up and converted into a reading nook, bar sink, closet, coat rack, bookshelves, bathroom, or storage pullout. Consider what space will be created near the stairs and design accordingly. Get creative!
This sample homeowner’s basement bar space was created with low-end kitchen cabinetry, and the countertops were made from reclaimed oak plank flooring. The cost estimate for this project was $500 – $1,000.
When designing an entertainment space, be conscious of the other ways it could also be used.
Consider adding a futon that can serve as seating but also convert into a bed so the space can function as a guest bedroom. If the basement is large enough to accommodate big groups of people, then a sectional sofa for sitting and watching tv may be ideal. But if the space is smaller, consider several couches that could easily be moved to open up floor space.
There are multiple ways to design a play space for kids. A large kids play table with burlap costs around $200 – $300. For smaller spaces, consider mounting a bar top that is 12–18 inches deep along the wall with floating shelves above for coloring books, crayons, crafts etc. Install 12-inch-deep kitchen cabinets (any upper kitchen cabinets) below the countertop for added storage.
What many people do not realize when they design a basement renovation is that if there is a staircase, there is more often than not space for a full bathroom. The run of most staircases is typically long enough to install a bathroom. A 5ʹ x 7ʹ or a 5ʹ x 8ʹ bathroom will be enough space in most states to pass inspection. Basement bathroom addition costs run between $7K and $10K.
Many basements already have a hot and cold water hookup which can be converted to a craft room, laundry room, or even workout space. Adding this space is much cheaper if water lines and a grinder pump are already being installed for a bathroom. For a multipurpose room, consider reclaiming an old kitchen countertop, sink, or cabinets to create this extra workspace.
In this craft room, the countertops and sink were repurposed from an old kitchen renovation, and the countertops were refinished using a Rust-Oleum countertop transformation kit ($40). The cabinetry was then designed accordingly using a low-end cabinet made of particleboard.
6. A Storage Space
When remodeling a basement, be sure to design significant storage. Consider turning storage cubes into a work island. Reuse an old changing table as a wrapping cart. Reclaim an antique toolbox for craft storage. Incorporate cabinets and streamline designs to also maximize vertical storage.
7. A Game Space
A game space could be combined with a play space or even an entertainment space, but consider designing a table into the plan with an overhead light that can be used for puzzles, games, or food.
Work smarter not harder, and save these design ideas for that future basement renovation!
Ahna Fulmer is a world renowned transformation coach with a passion for helping others learn how to leverage imperfection to claim success. In 2018 she founded a leading DIY lifestyle blog, Hammers N Hugs, where she inspires visitors to reclaim their hearts and homes with DIY ideas, house renovations, and strategies for healthy living through her virtual fitness and nutrition business. She is a freelance writer for Wayfair and has been featured by Apartment Therapy, Home Talk, and Food Talk, to name a few.
