Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Basement Remodeling Ideas

Are you planning to remodel your basement but lack basement remodeling ideas? We all know that basements are dark, unused part of the house, but it also has lots of potential for open space to work with. Instead of viewing the basement as something negative, make use of its available features and turn the space into something you and your partner can enjoy for years.

The basement is a place where no one thinks of congregating in so why not transform it into a romantic getaway? A good old lock for your door and curtains for your windows can easily make your basement into a more private and romantic space for you and your partner. Of course, you need to take extra measures as well, particularly in the case of an emergency. You can easily install a fire alarm and doorbell on the basement door so that others can reach you in case something happens.

Let us begin with an overview of the possibilities. Lets talk about decorating the basement to create a romantic space. There are several basement remodeling ideas that cater towards making a space more inviting, relaxing and dramatic. These are key words to keep in mind when trying to recreate a romantic getaway. You do not have to travel the world to experience that romantic flare in your home.

Keeping out distractions is a good way to start. Thus, you should clean out your basement first and foremost. Make sure it is impeccably clean and that there is no clutter lying around. Basements are well known for being storage hubs, where useless things accumulate in there for no particular reason. Make sure you get rid of all those useless items. Its your choice to install a TV in your refinished basement, however, if you really want the space to be a romantic getaway, have a small TV in the corner or consider reserving it only for the living room upstairs.

Add the romantic, cozy accessories. Include thick, plush rugs to induce a relaxing and romantic feel. Since the basement could experience dampness or leakage, it may not be a good idea to get a wall-to-wall carpet. An alternative is to install a subfloor and use area rugs. You may also want to install heating systems for your floor to keep your basement warm and dry all year round.

A mini bar is another option. Its quite romantic to have good wine around, so you may want to build yourself a mini bar in one corner. You do not really need a huge cellar in your basement"keep a few good bottles of wine and that will be sufficient.

Having music around would be great for a romantic get away so it would be a great idea to work on the electrical system for the sound system. If you are considering a hi-tech sound system for your basement, make sure your electrical system will accommodate this.

For the final touch, set the mood with appropriate lighting. You would not want the space to appear like a storage room with fluorescent lights. A traditional or portable fireplace can generate a romantic ambience in the basement. You may merge this with low wattage and colored lamps, directional lights and surface mounted spotlights to create the ultimate romantic setting. These are just some basement remodeling ideas to create a romantic getaway.

Planning a basement remodeling project? Discover the newest styles in basement remodels

Secrets To Improve Your Finished Basement Design

The basement is a part of your house that can be used in so many ways. If given some thought, you can remodel it into something worth your time and money. Nowadays, a finished basement design has become a very popular investment. How to improve it is easy, manageable and relatively affordable too. In fact, with a little creativity and knowledge in art or interior design, you can turn your basement into the most beautiful and favorite hangout place in your home.

Be creative. Here are some of the things you can make out of your unattended basement.

- Your home office. Supposing you have a small business run at home and you need an office. The basement can be the perfect place to set this plan up. Assuming that you have a finished basement design already. All you need to do is furnish it. Add office furniture and all other office supplies, equipment, and useful stuff like lamps, book shelf, etc. Don't forget to install a phone and a fax machine.

- Small gym - A treadmill doesn't require a huge space. So does any set of weights. You can always put it in a corner in your basement. A good place would be near the window if you like to work out with the cool breeze of fresh air. That way you'll also have the feel of a semi-outdoor while doing your regular exercise.

- Children's Playroom - There are really no furnishings needed on this one. Although you might need a removable rubber carpet on the floor to go with your finished basement design. Kids can be messy and unpredictable. Accidents can happen. A rubber mat should keep them comfortable in their place. And for extra safety precaution, consider setting up a railing around them.

- Home Entertainment Room - Take advantage of the lack of lighting and convert it into a new facility. Some homes use the dark corners in their basement as a mini theatre. Others would use it as a dark room. Not only is your finished basement design space optimized, it has brought a new experience too.

- Your Basement Bar - Converting your finished basement design into a bar is a cool idea too. That would take away your problems in where you want to hold mini parties with your friends on weekends. But remember to have proper ventilation or a room temperature balance because it can get warm and sweaty when it's crowded.

- Your Guest Room - If you have a big family and have used up all the rooms for your kids, why not use the basement as another bedroom. You can have your guests use it. You in-laws perhaps if they come over to visit the kids.

- Music Room - Your finished basement design is probably the most well insulated place in your house in terms of acoustics. If you have a teenager who loves to play in a band, you might want to explore this option. A music studio can be cheaper and only needs good sound insulation.

These are just some things you can do with a basement. If your basement is spacious, you can accommodate all of the above mentioned. It's really up to you. A very good finished basement design should be flexible in terms of use. Just make sure it's still cozy and can make your friends or guests feel welcome. This little den in your home can go a long way.

Know more tips on finished basement design.