5 Ways To Convert Your Basement

Storage space for some, unfinished room for others, yet thanks to its size the basement is a part of the house brimming with possibilities. Whether you’re ready to invest or get inventive, there is no limit to your comfort. Make your basement transformation a reality without having to quash your creativity.

Are you currently organizing a basement renovation project? We've prepared a highly practical checklist to help you manage the different steps involved in this project. 

Click here to check it out and be sure to keep it handy  

Cover photo and photo hereabove: Highmark Builders

1) How to brighten up a basement?

The basement is probably the part of the house that receives the least light, so why not illuminate it? Opt for materials that reflect or let light pass through, as well as for organic materials transposing the exterior inside. Think of integrating raw materials with light colours: blond wood, white stone and beige jute carpeting.

A fireplace in the center of the room will provide a natural glow. To warm the basements’ cold floor, seal it with an epoxy for a shiny finish or choose a lightly coloured coating. 

Replace a traditional door with transparent glass or plexiglass behind which you can make a wine cellar. For furniture, opt for materials that reflect light: leather, varnish, and glossy finishes. Then combine your fixtures to add light to the entire area, without forgetting about the blinds or white curtains for the windows.

Looking to buy blinds?

We recommend Quebec-based company Hey Blinds Canada: custom-made blinds, sought-after products, but above all else, the best warranties for a stress-free purchase.

2) How to expand the space in a basement?

Now that the basement is receiving more light, wouldn’t you like to maximize the space? If you’re tired of the immaculate white that’s persisted since the construction of your home, repaint the walls and floor with a palette of cooler or pastel shades. This will give the impression that the space is bigger than it is. 

To soften the rectilinear space, opt for furniture with round lines and alternate between new and old pieces. To anchor this timeless charm, a textured rug made of natural fibres or very vibrant patterns will help stabilize the furniture and offset their floating. Also, install mirrors in front of windows and place shelves to create order while freeing up space.

Photo: Atomly

3) How to convert a basement affordably?

Your basement already has potential so why not highlight it in all its simplicity? If you have a low-hanging ceiling, it is better to paint the beams and ceiling in white than to install a suspended ceiling which will cause you to lose space. With slippers on your feet, does the cold concrete slab not bother you? 

Then paint your floor using stencils. If you have plywood installed, paint it with a checkerboard pattern of your choice. To create divisions, use fabrics, old wooden pallets, or whatever you can get your hands on. Keep the rustic appeal of materials like stairs or rawly exposed beams.

Photo: Flickr- Borgens

4) Customize your basement!

Your basement is such a versatile space so why not customize it? A playroom for children, home theatre, a workshop for an artist or do-it-yourselfer; enjoy it because it’s your room! For parents who want to attract their teenager’s attention, install automated controllable LED lights, creating a whole new atmosphere. Organize the space to accommodate your guests by upgrading your basement bar of yesteryear or by installing long and low-lying sofas. 

For nostalgic reminders of vacations to the sea, opt for a nautical theme. Short of ideas? Visit the bookstore or library to browse their selection of iconic designers: Richard Neutra, Frank Lloyd Wright, Greta Grossman, John Lautner, and Eero Saarinen. The designs of other eras are becoming fashionable again so stay ahead of the curve.

5) When a fan decorates their basement

Your basement can take on the look of a small-scaled fantasy universe within your home. Why not try to recreate a fictional setting from a comic book, a cult classic movie or a video game? Arrange a showroom for your collection with glass display cases along the walls and pedestals for your figurines. 

Paint a special image on a wall or repaint the whole space in the theme of your choice. For science fiction fans, have a look at the Château St. Germain by artist HR Giger. Wood, metal, stone, textile, and composite materials are all made by talented artisans across the country. The interior of a spaceship, Mario Brothers board, and disco-inspired bowling alleys, there are no limits to your imagination!