5 Small Projects to Improve Your Basement

By Editorial Team

Updated on July 22, 2025

Modern kitchen with central island, wooden ceiling beams, white cabinets, recessed lighting, and wood-look flooring

Depending on the household, the utility of the basement differs from place to place. Whether it’s used as a family room, a home theatre or your personal warehouse, there is always room for improvement. However, when it comes to acting on this desire for change you may be faced with a lack of inspiration.

To revive your basement, it’s not necessary to spend a large amount of money. Oftentimes, seemingly small changes may be the solution to your problem. Here are a few ideas for simple projects to inspire your renovations. 

5 simple and affordable renovation ideas to improve your basement

1- A built-in bookcase

By choosing bespoke furniture, you not only save space but add unique character to the room. Opt for a type of material that will create contrast in the room, such as wood. In it, you could also choose to include a TV area, perfect for a home theatre. 

Modern living room with a blue velvet sofa, floral wallpaper, designer mirror, built-in bookshelf, and marble coffee table in a bright and elegant space.

Source : Mindwell Design

2- Opt for clear colours

It shouldn’t be surprising that the basement has a limited amount of natural light. Some of you are the lucky ones who have large windows or a half-basement. But, in most cases, sources of light in the basement will be limited. 

This is why it’s important to opt for light or neutral colours in order to let the light reflect on your walls, thus helping diffuse it as much as possible throughout the room. 

Finished basement with dining and living area, decorated in a modern style with a wooden staircase, white walls, and recessed lighting.

Source : LSB Renovations Inc.

3- Invest in textured accessories and natural materials

Essentially, when you think of the basement you may be inclined to think about a space that is cold and dull. For this reason, we’d recommend investing in furniture and accessories that offer an element of texture. 

A woven rattan rug, with a second rug, wooden furniture, decorative ceramic items, a cotton or linen sofa, and even velvet, will help you to add dimension and character to the room. 

Close-up of a caramel leather sofa with black cushions, dark wooden coffee table, and natural wood flooring in a modern interior.

Source : 9442-3589 Quebec inc.

4- Explore contrasts

Always keep in mind that even though it’s better to maintain a light colour on the walls, it’s possible to explore elements of contrast in other areas of this room. Door and window frames can be painted in a different, more striking colour. This same concept can be replicated throughout your furniture and accessories. 

Industrial-style lounge with tufted leather sofas, geometric glass coffee table, wall art.

Source : 2489674 Ontario Inc.

5- Revisit your lighting

Especially true if the lighting is lacking during the day, it’s important to select different types of lamps that will offer the perfect atmosphere to a room. For a home theatre, opt for lighting that you can dim.

To be even more original, and especially if you’re working with exposed beams in the ceiling, hang strings of light to have a soothing and serene effect. A few lights placed strategically in corners that are less illuminated will complete the entire look.

Black wall sconce with lit Edison bulb and clear glass shade emitting warm light

Source : AGI Électrique

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


Get 3 free quotes for your project!

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes!

Looking for something else?

Get 3 free quotes for your project!

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes!

Are you a contractor?

Join our network and receive real leads!

Download the price guide for renovations

We’ll be emailing you the latest market price guide for renovations.



Related articles

The latest industry news, interviews, technologies, and resources.

7 min read

Editorial Team

13 Sep 2024

Basement Insulation: Combining Comfort and Necessity

Have you been thinking about what kind of insulation would best suit your basement? Is it spray foam insulation or boards? Are you insulating from the inside or the outside? When it comes to choosing, a lot of questions come to mind. In terms of maximizing your energy savings, insulating a basement is an interesting option, but it has to be done properly. So, here's a guide to help you in your research.

6 min read

Editorial Team

07 Nov 2023

4 Must-Know Factors Prior to Building a Basement Apartment

Often, the basement is a somewhat forgotten space that doesn’t get the attention it deserves. This versatile room can serve many purposes including a play area for children, a laundry room, a man cave or even a home gym.

7 min read

Editorial Team

15 Nov 2024

Home Heating: 10 Ways to Reduce Costs This Winter

Given our harsh winter, a decent heating system is a must-have to reap the benefits of a warm, comfortable home. However, as you're probably well aware since the day you paid your first utility bill, a cozy dwelling isn’t cheap.

5 min read

Editorial Team

16 Jun 2025

Materials and techniques to insulate an attic

It goes without saying that no one likes to feel cold inside their home, especially when winter knocks on our doors. As insulation in the attic is critical to the preservation of a comfortable indoor temperature, it is important to understand which materials and techniques need to be used to ensure that it is optimal.

Renovation tips
10 min read

Editorial Team

01 Aug 2024

How to Choose the Right Framing Nailer

A framing nailer, or nail gun, is defined as the standard tool used to streamline jobsites. Discover the material and tools needed to efficiently nail your framing together. 


Looking for a contractor?

Submit a project and get 3 free quotes now!