If you’re considering remodeling your basement but aren’t sure where to start, you aren’t alone. Many homeowners interested in basement remodeling services in Chicago and the North Shore know that they want to do something to their basement, but aren’t sure how to make the most of the square footage. Have we just described you? Read on for five basement remodeling design ideas that will make your basement into livable space that works better for your family and your lifestyle.
Open-Concept, Multipurpose Basement Area
Just as homeowners are embracing open concept areas on their main living floors, we’re seeing a trend toward open concepts in basements as well. If your current basement has a floor plan that feels choppy and closed in, remodeling your basement to create an open concept area may be a good investment. For example, you may be able to transform several small, less usable basement rooms into a large multipurpose space, like this family room, where everyone can enjoy watching television, having snacks and entertaining friends.
Open concept basement spaces also allow you to maximize the natural light that enters your basement. Rather than keep the light channeled into a single room, you’ll be able to enjoy it throughout your basement space, making it feel much more like a natural extension of your home.
Luxurious Lower-Level Guest Suite
Your basement is the perfect place to create a guest suite that rivals a luxury hotel. With its built-in privacy and its typically quiet location, basements are an excellent choice for helping guests feel as comfortable as possible in your home. If you entertain friends from out-of-town or want an area for an elderly parent or relative to be able to stay, transforming part of your basement into a guest suite may be an especially smart move.
Most basement guest suites have en suite bathrooms, but as expert basement remodeling contractors we’ve also seen many guest suites with attached sitting areas, wet bars and even mini-kitchens. It all depends on your space and your budget…and just how long you want your guests to stay!
State-of-the-Art Basement Home Gym
Though it isn’t a new concept in basements, there’s a lot to be said for the convenience of having a home gym with all of the latest equipment that is ready for you whenever you’re ready. And on a cold Chicago winter day, not having to drive to a cycling class across town can make the difference between getting a workout or going without.
If you’re considering a home gym, also consider what you’d like to have access to after you work out before you begin your basement remodeling. We’ve seen more saunas, luxury showers and even areas for smoothie bars being added to home gym areas–and if you have a new idea for your home gym, we are ready to help you make it happen.
Stunning Wine Cellar
Whether you’re already a committed connoisseur or you are interested in wine and want to become a connoisseur, a wine cellar is a beautiful and practical alternative to storing your wine in a kitchen pantry or other area. Climate-controlled wine cellars allow you to store your wine at the optimal temperature and humidity to help it properly age.
Wine cellars are a perfect addition to basements, taking advantage of the slightly higher-than-average humidity that is typically found there. Additionally, your wine cellar can be a focal point of your basement and your entire home, showcasing your collection in a style that complements the rest of your home. For example, a contemporary home may have an enclosed wine cellar with glass walls and stainless steel accents, while a traditional home may opt for a more rustic style wine cellar with stone walls and wood shelving.
Dream Playroom
Another long-time favorite for basements, adding a kids’ playroom in your basement area can be a great decision. But unlike boring basement playrooms of the past, today’s playrooms take fun to the next level. Of course, add the built-in shelves that will help keep toys and books from getting too messy—but while you’re add it, why not add a built-in slide that lets the kids zoom into the room? The cool factor is definitely higher on the latter.
We’ve seen trends toward themed playrooms with features like rock climbing walls, areas for indoor sports (imagine indoor soccer where nothing gets broken!) and built-in bunks for multi-friend sleepovers. Separate areas for different types of play, from arts and crafts to games and electronics, allow siblings of different ages to peacefully use the space together.
Inspired for your own basement remodeling project? Want to learn more about how we can help? Get in touch with the Orren Pickell Building Group today.
