Custom Finished Basement

Is it time to update your unfinished or outdated lower level? A custom finished basement can not only increase living space; it also increases your home’s value. But don’t think of this space as just more square footage. Instead, really imagine how to maximize the space for you and your family. Maybe you want an entertainment center complete with home theater, or a themed room centered around your favorite sport or sports team, or a wine or whiskey haven with bottle storage and a tasting room. Whatever you imagine, finishing or updating the lower level of your home with thoughtful design elements and custom décor can transform an unused or outdated space into an inviting area that fits your family’s lifestyle.

The first step in a custom finished basement is to determine the best way to use the extra space. Here are some ideas:

• Home Theater: Whether you plan to host movie marathons or just enjoy a designated space to binge-watch your favorite series, a home theater can create a cinematic experience without the high movie theater prices. Include a surround sound system and reclining chairs for the ultimate entertainment hub.
• Sports Lounge: For sports enthusiasts, a lower level sports lounge is the perfect spot for cheering on your favorite team with friends and family. Multiple TVs, a custom bar area, comfortable seating, and sports memorabilia can rival the best sports bar in town.
• Game Room: Both kids and adults will love a game room complete with billiards and foosball tables, a dartboard, and a large TV with surround sound for gaming. Add in a custom bar with drinks and snacks and your family may never leave.

• Wine or Whiskey Bar: Dark woods, elegant lighting, and rich décor can set the stage for the ultimate wine tasting room or whiskey bar. Include a custom wet bar with bottle and glass storage, and a sink for easy clean up.
• Multi-Purpose Space: Enhance your home’s entertainment value by including a combination of the above areas. A lower level with different sections for gaming, watching television, exercising, entertaining, or overnight guests can cater to a variety of activities at once.

Next, step into the lower level of your home and take a look around. Before hiring a custom home remodeler, it’s important to assess the space. Do you want an open-concept design or will portions be sectioned off into smaller spaces such as a guest bedroom suite or workout area? Will you want a television? Bar? Fireplace? The location of these larger focal point items can dictate the new floor plan.

The color scheme you choose can have a dramatic impact on the space as well. White cabinetry and pale gray or taupe walls will feel bright, light and airy, and will also make a lower level feel larger. Darker cabinets and flooring can create a warm and inviting space that is more intimate.

Likewise, the materials you select can create a different look and feel. Determine whether you want carpeting, hardwood, tile or a mix of flooring to create visual interest. For lighting, recessed lights with dimmers are best for overall illumination in a large area, while pendant lights can highlight a bar or island. Faucets and drawer pulls in pewter, gold or black can accentuate the space.

Basement layout and design is a critical step in the remodeling process and can set the stage for functionality and aesthetic appeal for years to come, so it’s important to get it right. If designing the layout of such a large space feels overwhelming, you might want to hire an interior designer to help.

Ready to take the leap into a custom finished basement? Contact Highmark Builders for a consultation. Our in-house team will meet you at your home to see the space and get a feel for your design ideas. And our team of experienced interior designers can assist with everything from color scheme to the material selections process to ensure the final space not only meets your expectations but also unlocks the full potential of your home.

For more inspiration, check out our lower level design gallery.