We could all do with a bit more space. As households grow, furniture accumulates and life changes, you may find yourself feeling a little compact within your current home. That’s why so many homeowners are opting to invest in a basement conversion in order to take advantage of this untapped space.
A basement conversion can provide you with significantly more living room, whether you are looking to add another bedroom, a snug, a home gym or perhaps even a wine cellar. Converting your basement can meet your needs while completely changing the look and feel of your home overall.
If you’re considering a basement conversion for your home, there are some things you need to know. First of all, you should always seek out the help of a team you can trust such as the experts at Design and Build London. Next, you should follow our top tips. Let’s take a look.
Add the right lighting
One of the things that puts some people off the idea of using their basement is the sense of being underground, and part of this discomfort derives from a lack of light. That’s why in any basement conversion, it’s so important to choose your lighting carefully in order to create a sense of welcomeness and homeliness.
Give yourself options when it comes to lighting. As well as a bright ceiling light, you could also invest in dramatic spotlights, or standing lamps that offer a warmer, more subtle glow. Think about the kind of ambience you want to create with your basement, and make every piece of lighting contribute to it.
If you have any natural light, use it
You probably don’t have a lot of natural light in your basement, but sometimes a small window or even the light from the stairwell can contribute to the room’s natural glow. In these cases, it’s important to make the most of this light, through tips like painting your basement floor a glossy white. You could also place mirrors in the space to amplify any daylight and create the illusion of actual windows.
Choose your colours wisely
Colours and lighting should be considered hand in hand. Think about how your lighting will play with the colour schemes you choose, and how both of these factors will work together in the space as a whole.
Bright and airy paint colours is a great way to lighten things up in your basement. It also allows you to have fun choosing colours you really love. Light colours also help to create the illusion of space, removing that ‘dark and dank’ stereotype that people sometimes associate with basements.
Go for stylish storage
Many people choose to use their basements for storage purposes, but that doesn’t mean it can’t also be a place where you enjoy spending time. Decorate your basement with shelves and storage furniture, as a stylish way to hide all the stuff you don’t necessarily want on show. Think walls with labelled baskets, or walls of shelving organised to your liking. These techniques will not only make your home more organised, but will also help you find a home for things you can’t place anywhere else, creating breathing space in your home overall.
Wine cellar or games room? Choose your purpose
Before you start your basement conversion project, think carefully about the role you want your basement to play in your home. Whether you’re looking to create a games room, an entertaining space, a wine cellar or even an underground library, a basement conversion can be anything you want it to be. Choose your purpose wisely and early in order to get the most out of your conversion project.
