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?

Table of contents

3 min read

Find contractors near you

Enter your postal code



Related articles

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

9 min read

Editorial Team

29 Jul 2024

Home Inspection Checklist: Old House Edition

For many aspiring homeowners, buying a home doesn’t necessarily mean opting for something new. In fact, some may have their eye on a home that was built several years, maybe even decades ago.

Basement
6 min read

Cynthia Pigeon

25 Jul 2025

What standards must be met for basement windows?

Thinking of renovating your basement? Whether it’s to create a bedroom, office, or rec room, windows play a key role in ventilation, natural light, and most importantly, emergency escape.

Basement
5 min read

Christine Simard

08 Nov 2023

Painting project: 3 things to know about colour psychology

In our day to day lives, we're constantly surrounded by thousands of different colours who, each in their own way, have an impact on our moods and our feelings. Whether it is the vibrant green shade of grass or the warm colours of autumn leaves, each colour emanates a different energy and provokes varying reactions in people.

4 min read

Editorial Team

23 Feb 2026

Renovation Budget: the cost to apply drywall joint compound | Renovation Quotes

Although the most skilled and patient of people will be able to attach and seal drywall joints together successfully, it’s important to recognize that this project can’t be taken on by everyone.

5 min read

Léa Plourde-Archer

24 May 2024

How to Fix and Maintain Foundation Parging

Foundation parging is a product that fulfills both useful and aesthetic functions. It is used to cover the exposed part of the foundation of your house. However, although practical, it does not last forever!