One way to fill the space is to make it into an extra bedroom or even a basement guest room suite. In this article, we discuss ideas that could transform a dark and dull basement into a bright and cozy bedroom.

1. Add rugs to soften flooring



Since basements tend to get moist, common flooring options for the space are tiles, vinyl, concrete, or laminate – all hard surfaces. To make a bedroom though, the key is adding a rug that will add some cushion to soften, warm up, and add texture to the space. Just remember to pick the right size, ideally something that can contain the major elements of the room or serve as a buffer between built-ins


2. Thoughtfully organize space

Basements always have limited space, so be thoughtful in organizing, decluttering, and choosing furniture and storage areas. If planning to use this bedroom just for overnight guests, open shelving spaces might be enough. Otherwise, follow compact living design tips like using multi-functional furniture and utilizing vertical space.

3. Add a theme

From boring and cave-like, to a unified theme that personalizes your experience of the room – that’s what a ‘theme’ can do. Some ideas could be: “Coastal” which brings calm vibes with all its shades of blue or “Boho” with plants and pops of red and orange that warms and softens the space.

4. Add charming walls

Avoid the dingy look and feel of basements using wallpapers, and instantly add visual appeal. From floral to abstract, plaid to stripes, other countless wallpaper options can add depth, dimension, and texture to a room.

5. Keep it cozy

Remember that texture does not apply just to walls and floors but also to upholstery, furniture, ornaments, and plants and flowers. When done right, keeping it cozy by adding ‘textural layers’ improves the basement bedrooms remarkably, providing color and vibrancy to the space.

1. Plan

According to Forbes, the cost will depend on the structure that needs to be built (average cost $90,000) vs. utilizing the space that already exists (average cost $6,000). Keeping these numbers in mind will help you decide on what features to add so that you stay within your budget.

2. Small bathroom designs

Depending on the ceiling height, you might want to consider a “basement half bathroom”, which is a basement bathroom with a small space. This is doable as long as you incorporate small-space design principles such as using compact fixtures and effective lighting.3. Improve ventilation and comfort – Due to their subterranean nature, basements are prone to moisture, humidity, and odors. Look for durable and water-resistant materials such as tiles and flooring specifically designed for use in basements and bathrooms.

4. Maximize functionality and space storage

Embrace the whole space and make use of its unique qualities for space optimization. For example, make use of vertical shelving space or built-in storage units.

5. Add A Wow Factor

Since the basement bathroom is detached from the main living space, you have the flexibility to veer away from your main design theme. The wow factor could be dramatic wallpaper, themes such as beach, anchor, or ships, or a contemporary style that makes use of bright LED lights.

All in all, transforming your basement bathroom will require careful planning and attention to detail. But it’s all worth it so you can have a functional and stylish space that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Basements can be challenging to decorate and design, especially when it comes to picking the right flooring. Because basements are prone to moisture and flooding, it’s important to pick a flooring option that can withstand these two conditions. In this article, we discuss what factors to consider before choosing a flooring type, as well as the best options based on your needs.

Addressing these 3 factors is crucial to determining the type of flooring you’ll want to use:

Factor #1: Moisture Resistance – Is it a dry area, or do you have issues with flooding every year?

Factor #2: Durability – What are you planning on using your basement for? Choose a flooring option that could withstand the wear and tear of daily use.

Factor #3: Style and design – Do you want a cozy, den-like basement or a space that’s going to see heavy use and activity?

Types of Basement Flooring

1. Carpet – Best for Dry Basements and a Cozy Feel

For those looking to make their basement a cozy retreat, carpet flooring is the option to choose from. It could be more prone to becoming damp and moldy than other options but moisture-resistant carpet padding is one strategy to mitigate damage.

2. Engineered wood – Best for Adding Elegance in your basement

For a moderately priced option for a rich, natural wood finish (that’s more adaptable than solid wood), engineered wood is the best flooring option. It has an attractive appearance that could be good for home resale value but the surface could scratch and dent easily.

3. Luxury Vinyl – Best for all Basement Types

You can choose either vinyl plank flooring or vinyl tile flooring. Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP) are a popular choice for basement flooring because it is durable, water-resistant, and easy to install.  Cons are that it could be difficult to remove once installed and can dent or tear.

4. Tile – Best for High Moisture Basements in Warm Regions

Tile is one of the most expensive flooring options but a longtime go-to–it’s water-resistant, durable, and built to last. It looks stylish and high-end but could feel hard and cold during winter, although you can always add area rugs for warmth.

To summarize, picking the right basement flooring is important because the space itself presents unique challenges. Now that you understand the different flooring types, you can make a wise decision. This ensures your basement is functional and looks good.

1. Invest in a show-stopping design by going bold with color and details

If the house is more on the neutral scheme, the bar can be the place where you play your individual stamp. You can use framed art or combine bold colors, patterns, and textures to liven up the space.

2. Even a small space can work

Remember to save space for the most basic components: sink, chopping station, fridge, wine storage, etc. Also keep in mind that you’ll need storage space for standard ingredients and equipment like bitters, simple syrup, triple sec, soda water, vermouth, and so on, as well as glassware and knives.

3. Use mirrors to reflect light and make the space appear bigger

Considering the bar is in the basement area. It could potentially be cramped, use mirrors on the wall (you can even pair these with colorful glass) to result in a glamorous finish.

4. Choose a durable surface

The most hardworking part of any bar is the bar surface. The top-tier choices for durability and appearance are granite and marble slabs, but tile could also be a more affordable alternative.

5. Give your guests a place to sit

Every drinking experience gets even better with a comfortable space to lounge in. If there’s space, consider adding a counter with bar stools. Another option is adding in a couple of cozy armchairs, soft rugs and throw pillows for that ultimate cozy bar experience.

1. Be careful with the basement’s state and structure 

Basements differ most from other parts of the house of because of the humidity level. Because of this, materials that will be used to cover surfaces are important considerations. Take time to think about plumbing, electricity, ventilation, the presence of natural light, and air quality, since you’ll be using the space where family and friends will be spending time.

2. Invest in good quality tools and supplies that are made to last 

A few of the most important things to put in a workshop are:
-Workbench
-Safety equipment tools
-Shelving units
-Storage bins and containers
-Basic hand tools such as a table saw, miter saw, jigsaw, drills, etc

In addition, you can also consider using magnetic strips attached to walls for metal objects, rubbish bins, hooks and nails, and more. Getting all of these materials in good quality means they will last you for a long time, and will eventually save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

3. Remember to have fun and get creative with the layout 

There’s no right or wrong way to set up a basement workshop. Just make sure that you’ve considered safety precautions and that everything is easily accessible and aesthetically pleasing.

4. Keep everything well organized 

A workshop that is well-organized and clean is the foundation for efficient and enjoyable work. The first step is decluttering, categorizing items, and then finally, optimizing for storage solutions. You may also consider investing in a vacuum cleaner to give your workshop floor an extra level of cleanliness. Making sure to do a quick clean-up daily and putting things back in place are simple things you can do to create a safe and efficient workspace for you to enjoy.

1. Replace or refresh the front entry door

According to Remodeling magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report, a new entry door has a higher ROI than nearly every other home project, returning over 91 percent of its cost upon sale. That sky-high ROI is due, partly, to the low cost of this project.

If so, replacing or refreshing your front door can massively transform your house for little cost. A new door increases your house’s exterior curb appeal and adds a wow factor to guests coming in.

2. Use art pieces on the wall for a unique look at each room

Walls can seem like a small detail but they can transform the look and feel of a room. Recall your visits to artsy cafes and furniture showrooms; they include curated framed artwork that invites you to the space.

To copy this in your own home, you can opt for mixing and matching prints and paintings, or to go abstract, or keep it classy with black and white photos. Properly hanging your art pieces can make a massive impact for little cost.

3. Update the drapes

Heavy, gloomy, and outdated drapes drag down the mood of a room. On the other hand, if done well, the right drapes provide privacy and light control and improve the look of a room.

To find the perfect drapes or window treatment, look for a style that complements the look/feel of the room. It’s also good to keep in mind insulation (that what you choose helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature) and energy efficiency (opt for what potentially reduces energy costs).

To summarize, changing drapes/window treatments, hanging interesting art pieces, and refreshing your front door can seem like minor changes to your home but they are steps in transforming your space to more of what reflects your personality. A home revamp project done right ultimately creates a more comfortable space, adds visual appeal, and improves your quality of life.

DIY Renovation: Pros vs Cons

DIY – Pros: 

1. It could potentially be cheaper. According to MoneyCrashers.com, “the labor costs of professional contractors generally run between $30 to $125 per hour, so their work can add up to hundreds or thousands of dollars.” That’s why in most cases, a DIY home renovation is going to be cheaper. Essentially, you’ll be exchanging your time with the money you saved.

2. You have control of the outcome. Fulfilling your visions of a house is achievable if you’re the one doing it. For those who value complete control over the project, design, budget, and materials, going DIY is the best way to go.

3. It’s a good project to use up free time and achieve a feeling of accomplishment. A successful renovation you managed yourself can give you a feeling of satisfaction and improve your mood. It’s also a good way to spend your time learning a new skill or applying those you haven’t used for a while.

DIY – Cons:

1. Risk of potentially hurting others. Moneycrashers.com says that the most important question you ask yourself when considering a DIY job is, “What’s What’s the worst possible thing that could happen if I mess it up?” If the answer is, “I could get killed,” then that’s a clear sign a professional is better off handling it.

2. Time-consuming. You’ll end up spending more time (and money) if you don’t get the results right.

3. Lack of expertise. As an amateur, there’s room for error that could result in potential damage that you’ll be responsible for fixing. 

Hiring a Professional: Pros vs Cons

Hiring a Pro – Pros: 

1. Safety. Remember that the danger component is an important consideration for any home renovation. Certain jobs require technical knowledge that is too dangerous to DIY.

2. It could be potentially time-saving as permits could be approved faster for certain home improvement projects that require it.

3. You are also assured of high-quality results with insurance guaranteed by reputable contractors.

Hiring a Pro – Cons: 

1. Lack of control with timeline and design as you will be relying on the contractor.

2. Generally more expensive as you’ll be paying for labor and expertise, as well as material costs. 

In summary, you can opt for DIY if you have the right skills, tools, and enough time but defer to a profession if you don’t want to risk safety or spend your own time.

Renovating a house has many benefits such as adding value to a property, keeping up to date with trends, and fixing unseen damages that will ensure your house lasts longer. Though renovations are good in general, it’s still worthwhile to explore the controversies and myths about home improvement. We’ll go through those top 5 misconceptions in this article.

Myth #1: You can do it all yourself

It’s important to remember that a house could suffer more damage when an inexperienced renovator tries to do something on their own. You might face some mistakes and challenges that will only come up later, forcing you to ask for professional help eventually.

On the contrary, experts can ensure you of work quality and longevity. It might seem more expensive upfront, but you’ll get the value of your budget and save more in the long run.

Myth #2:  You can make any modifications you want

No, you can’t all the modifications you want even if you own the property. Truth is, cities and local government have regulations on renovation or zoning changes. Any major reconstruction projects will have to be looked at in terms of how they will affect the quality of life for residents for factors like noise levels, traffic volume, parking space availability, etc.

Myth #3:  Any contractor will do 

It is a challenge to find the right basement remodeling contractor because they are many to choose from. But it’s an important step in turning your home into a dream space. That’s why in this article, we list the most important things you need to know for hiring the perfect contractor for the job.

Myth #4: You should renovate with current home trends in mind

Trends and interior design ideas are constantly changing, so people tend to grow tired of them fast. One design tip to mitigate that is to avoid expensive, permanent materials on floors, walls, cabinets, and countertops. Instead, incorporate trends that are easy to change such as accessories, lighting, or even changing furniture. 

Myth #5: Remodeling happens quickly

As a rule of thumb, large houses take 9 to 15 months to renovate, plus more for additional delays. Again, this is why a good contractor can work more efficiently than DIY.

In summary, knowing these 5 misconceptions about home renovations will help you avoid costly mistakes and encourage you to find the right contractor for the project.

1. Hire a Local Company

The first piece of advice is to look for a local contractor for your basement project. They would be able to meet local licensing guidelines, be more committed to finishing the work within the deadline, and have all the knowledge of the local construction codes.

2. Ask For Their Credentials

Avoid working with anyone who isn’t registered with the state or doesn’t hold the license to do the project. When you check their rating and reviews, look for specific details from a customer review instead of just general high ratings.

3. Check for General Liability Insurance

The right contractor will confirm that they have insurance to cover workers and other general liabilities. This way, you are not responsible for paying for accidents or injuries that could happen at the project site.

4. Compare Proposals And Quotes

Remember that cheaper isn’t always better. The quality of work affects the integrity of your house and poses future liabilities to anyone living in it. To assure that you are optimizing your budget, get quotes from multiple companies so that you know you’re getting reasonable prices from all of them.

5. Check for Code Compliance and City Inspection

An easy way to make sure a contractor is not cutting corners during the inspection of the city’s building officials is to ask them about how they handle permits. Good contractors have a standard procedure in applying for permits and passing all of the city’s required inspections.

In summary, this article goes you an idea of the right points of evaluation for selecting the right basement remodeling contraction. Choosing one that is trustworthy and budget-friendly will now be easier if you follow the points provided above.

1. Walkout basements

A walk-out basement is partially underground but has one or more outside entrances. This feature is particularly good for homes built on a sloping lot or hillside. Sounds complicated? Yes, and you might need additional local permission. But the result is worth it because you’ll get more natural light and the basement can be accessed directly from outside. 

2. A designated laundry space

Using the basement as a laundry space is perfect because it’s out of the way from the rest of the house and you’ll have plenty of space to organize your laundry and supplies. Just remember that the contractor will need to know ahead of time that you plan to use the space exactly for this purpose, so they can map out where to place outlets, shelving, storage, etc.

3. Open concept is still in

Open concept design has been a significant trend in renovations and it’s still in. Without walls and barriers, you create a seamless flow between all the areas. It also gives you the freedom to do whatever you want with the space and prevents any interference with the foundation of the house. 

4. Music room or auditorium stage instead of basement theater rooms

For music lovers who can spend hours listening or playing music, a music room outfitted with an illuminated stage complete with instruments is a dream space. You can make it simple by just soundproofing the room first with soft chairs and rugs and adding a comfortable seating area for family and friends. Another idea is to turn the music room into a dance room with open spaces and mirrors. 

5. Natural Light and Egress Windows  

One trending basement renovation style is the use of natural light and egress windows. Egress windows are large enough to provide an emergency escape route in case of fire. Placed strategically in a room, it could transform the whole space to be bright and airy. Other ways to get natural light in a basement are by installing sky and solar tubes.

6. Smart home technology

By incorporating smart home tech, basements could even become more functional and convenient areas. For example, smart thermostats allow you to control your basement temperature through your phone. Same with light control (through smart bulbs and switches), sound system control (smart speakers and sounders), and camera control (smart security cameras).