A Basement Redesign Guide

A house is most likely the biggest investment that you will ever make in your life. It is in your best interest to consider it as not just a home or a building, but as an investment. In other words, treat it in a way that you are constantly maintaining and, as much as possible, improving. One of the best ways to improve your investment, as well as improve your quality of life in the house is through a basement redesign. A finished basement redesign will help expand the livable space, as well as the value when it comes time to sell. Here are a few tips for a successful and profitable basement redesign.

The first step in a basement redesign is to elevate the space, figuratively speaking. In this sense, you want to change your basement from a cellar into something indistinguishable from the main floor of your house. The key to a successful basement redesign, then, is three-fold. Finishing, flooring and lighting.

It goes without saying, but you are doing your basement redesign to give your basement a finished feeling. This means no exposed piping, treated walls and maybe even several rooms. Consider how much space you have before designing your basement. Most basements will have room for at least a rec or media room as well as a half-bath. Others will be large enough for your basement redesign to include a guest suite, a game room, and other spaces. The point is that you want your basement redesign to give your basement the same "feeling" that you would get in a main floor. The two components to elevate this feeling are flooring and lighting.

A basement redesign can be tricky because of the flooring. Basement floors are notoriously uneven and hard. The choice of material is up to you, but it is easily the most important part of your design. Remember that basements are the most prone to take in water, so try to achieve a good balance between functional, practical, stylish and affordable.

Finally, basements usually stand out from their poor lighting. The lack or scarcity of natural light necessitates artificial lighting in your basement redesign. Strive to attain a soft lighting scheme to make your basement feel warmer and more inviting.

A basement redesign can add thousands of dollars to your existing home's value. If you invest the time, energy, and of course, money, you can greatly improve the market value of your home as well as give your house added space to enjoy.