Basement renovation ideas your family will love

Unsure what to do with your boring, unfinished basement? While it can be a significant expense, remodelling your lower level is well worth the investment. Here are some basement renovation ideas and tips to transform this underutilized part of your home into a functional bonus space your family will love.

[Photo Credit: snorkulencija]

Design a space to suit your needs
Think about how your family lives, works and plays and what is currently missing from your house. Do you wish you had a dedicated kids’ playroom? A wet bar and home theatre for entertaining friends? How about a state-of-the-art gym where you can work up a sweat? Determining how you want the space to function will help you prioritize your basement renovation costs and decide where to splurge, and where to save.
 
Create added height
Digging out and underpinning a low basement to raise the height of your ceiling can be an expensive endeavour, costing upwards of $50,000 depending on the size and age of your home. But this major basement renovation project is sure to pay off when your family gains an extra floor of usable living space. A professional contractor can help you determine the scope of the work and the necessary building permits required for the job. If you’re undertaking a major basement renovation project, you may also want to consider adding insulation in the ceiling for sound protection and underfloor heating to create added warmth.

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Waterproof the space
Mold, mildew, and excess moisture are common problems in basements, which are typically more vulnerable to water damage. Before any cosmetic upgrades take place, these concerns need to be addressed to prevent long-term structural issues and make your basement safe and comfortable. Waterproofing is a multi-step process that requires a thorough inspection and remediation of any hazardous materials.

Lay new flooring
When it comes to laying down flooring in an unfinished basement, there are a variety of options to choose from depending on your budget, how the space will be used, and your aesthetic preference.

●        Vinyl is a durable, waterproof material that comes in a wide range of colours, prints, and faux finishes.
●        Carpeting is the best choice if you want a comfortable and cozy feel, but is harder to clean and more susceptible to moisture damage.
●        Finished concrete offers a modern, low maintenance, and cost-effective option but can be cold underfoot.
●        Engineered hardwood is an environmentally friendly route that offers the look and feel of solid wood and is designed to withstand water damage without warping.

Add strategic lighting
With fewer windows and less natural light, basements are often dark. Work with a licensed electrician to design a lighting plan as part of your basement renovation costs.  Overhead pot lights or track lighting are great for rooms that need added brightness. Task lighting like under-cabinet lights and pendants work well in a kitchen or bar area, and wall sconces help set the mood for a home theatre area.
 
Finish with decor and furnishings
Once you’ve completed the major structural renovations, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Here are a few stylish basement decor ideas to make your space feel even more inviting.

●        Paint the walls a light, neutral colour to create a bright and airy feel.
●        Hang colourful artwork to give the space some personality.
●        Bring extra warmth to your lower level with a gas fireplace or lay down plush area rugs.
●        Install built-in cabinetry or custom shelving for sleek and functional storage solutions.
●        Use curtains, screens, or strategically placed furniture to divide a large open space into distinct zones for different uses.