Luxury finished basement ideas with a bar

Modern day finished basement ideas mean the lower level of your home no longer has to be an underutilized, dark and dingy space. This part of your home can offer a whole other level of living, while dramatically increasing the value and square footage of your home. From cozy lounges to chic bedrooms and home cinemas, basements can transform to fit any need. Explore our pro tips for the best finished basement ideas below!

Basement Remodel Ideas Quick Tips & Tricks

basement designer - Lisa W
Basement remodel ideas by Decorilla designer, Lisa W.

Anything is possible with the know-how. Similarly, simple finished basement ideas become doable when you have the basics. Here are the helpful design tips to making your home’s lowest level a success. 

1. Focus on an Interest 

Basement remodel ideas - CasaWatkins

Does one of your interests or hobbies need more room or an isolated space? Make your basement the place where this is easily prioritized. After all, fun also needs time – whether it’s music, crafts, or fitness. With this in mind, work with basement design ideas best suited to your interest.

Need help bringing your finished basement ideas to life? Then, schedule a Free Interior Design Consultation to work with a professional basement designer today!

2. Choose a Function 

Sports lounge basement design ideas
Sports lounge basement design ideas by Decorilla interior designer, Laura A.

A basement can play many roles. Let it fill the gap in your home by assessing what you need most. Do you need more storage, privacy, or a complete escape from the outside world? The beauty of this is that you don’t need to pick only one. With a few clever basement design ideas, the space can multitask. A man cave, for instance, can easily double as a home cinema or a bar to entertain friends at. 

3. Light it Right

Traditional basement designs with a bar and pool table

An unfinished basement can be dark. Luckily, with illuminating design ideas, this can be a thing of the past. Since natural light is often not an option, you can choose artificial light to set the tone for your space. Of course, layering lighting is a great starting point. In fact, the three basic types are the building blocks of successful design. These include ambient, task, and accent lighting. 

Keep in mind basements often need space-saving solutions. Options better for more headspace include downlights, wall sconces, and festoon lights. Whatever you choose, be sure to make lighting a top priority when implementing your basement remodel ideas.

Consider a Basement Designer

basement design ideas - Darya N
Exclusive basement living by Decorilla designer, Darya N.

Basement remodels are worth it when done correctly. It can increase the value of your home, especially if it’s finished to a professional standard. But it can be quite a project. Enlisting the help of a basement designer can save you time, money, and frustration. 

A Guiding Hand

Finished basement interior design ideas by Arlen A
Finished basement interior design ideas by Decorilla designer, Arlen A.

With a designer on board, your basement remodeling ideas have a head start. In fact, a professional will know the specific challenges basements present. This will certainly quicken the process and save you resources. When you have a look in mind, a basement designer will be able to interpret your design. They’ll also find the most economical way forward to get your finished basement ideas off the ground. 

Online or Traditional Design 

Finished basement design with a bar - Farzaneh K.
Finished basement design with a bar by Decorilla designer, Farzaneh K.

Nowadays, you can choose between in-person or affordable online interior design packages. Depending on the scale of your project, you can go either way. Just remember that both options will usually require a contractor if your work includes a major overhaul. Traditional services generally take longer when compared to online alternatives and often cost more.  

Small Finished Basement Ideas

cozy basement design ideas - Drew F
Simple finished basement ideas by Decorilla designer, Drew F.

Space limitations are not always negative. It can lead to exceptional furniture design or magically intimate spaces. So, use your restriction to guide your basement remodel ideas by setting a more focused or themed tone.

Time Capsule

Finished basement remodel ideas - Courtney B.
Small finished basement ideas by Decorilla designer, Courtney B.

Contemporary design rules can take a backseat here. Allow this extension to be a place where you can be sentimental. Display the furniture or decor items that are perhaps a little outdated and put them on center stage. Celebrate that 70’s couch and build a wooden panel accent wall for it, or frame the artwork you’ve been saving for a special day. With limited space, a theme brings purpose and order and allows you to make the most of the square footage. 

Farmhouse Practicality

country touches as basement design ideas

If you want more than one room, consider including sliding doors into your basement remodel ideas. Not only are barn doors functional and space-saving, but they also give a rustic country feel. You can also make hidden storage or eyesores attractive with a shiplap cover. 

Basement Designs With a Bar

basement designs with bar - Wanda P
Basement design with a bar by Decorilla designer, Laura A.

Add a touch of exclusivity to your basement design ideas with a bar. Few things say ‘Invite Only’ as clearly as a moody underground lounge coupled with elegant design.

Paired with Play

Basement designs with a bar and games area - HGTV

When it comes to making the most of your basement remodel ideas, setting a purpose is vital. For instance, a bar pairs well with a game room. If you have enough space, create an impressive seating area separate from the play zone. But if you don’t, a wall-lined bar can still provide more than what you need. In such instances, a floor-to-ceiling wine fridge or rack can make quite the focal point. 

Small but Punchy

Small finished basement designs with a bar

Whether it’s over budget or too big, a full bar is not always possible. Fortunately, you can still make tasty drinks in style. Basement designs with cocktail cabinets or slim bar ideas also ensure that space never becomes an issue. Plus, cabinets allow you to shuffle the layout whenever you feel like it.

Simple Finished Basement Ideas

Children's basement remodel ideas - Coco and Jack

In this day and age, no one will blame you for wanting to keep things uncomplicated. With simple finished basement design ideas, you can create a space to declutter your mind.

Low Profile

 basement-design-ideas-Miter

Select functional furniture with a compact structure. Finished basement ceilings tend to be low, so it’s best to incorporate ideas that give an illusion of height. If you like Japanese or Scandinavian design, this is the perfect opportunity to indulge. Sleek and minimal profiles with cozy textures can work wonders in a small space. 

Mindfully Natural

basement designer for a family room - drew f
Basement design ideas by Decorilla designer, Drew F.

Use a color palette that instills a sense of tranquility and calm. Natural hues work well to this end. Sandy browns or stone colors with green and blue undertones are especially popular. You can take it a step further with a textured painting technique, such as rag painting or sponging. This way, neutral colors have more depth and interest. 

Finished Basement Ceiling Ideas

Luxurious basement design ideas - Farzaneh K
Finished basement ceiling ideas by Decorilla designer, Farzaneh K.

Whether covered or exposed, finished basement ceiling ideas can lead to a beautiful interior feature. 

Show Off Structure

Finished basement office design ideas - Emily

Add drama to your basement design ideas and leave the ceiling structure exposed. After some tidying up and a coat of slate grey or muted pastel paint, the basement structure can make a stylish statement.

A Swing’s Anchor

whimsical basement remodel ideas

Let the lowest level of your house be the base of lightness and fun. Finished basement design certainly won’t be complete without a whimsical element and ceiling ideas can help. After all, a ceiling-mounted swing or day bed can keep the whole family playful. 

Finished Basement Bedroom Ideas

finished basement bedroom ideas by Mladen
Finished basement bedroom ideas by Decorilla designer, Mladen C.

A basement remodel can even increase the number of bedrooms in your home. Transforming a low-light space into a frequently used room, like a teenage or guest bedroom, could require the help of a basement designer. That said, the results will be character-rich, making it extra special. 

A Cozy Guest Room

finished basement bedroom ideas - Realhomes

Finished basement bedroom ideas don’t have to be elaborate. Stick to basic design and execute it perfectly. To this end, ensure your guests have enough storage, good lighting, and comfy bedding. The color scheme can be unfussy, like white with one or two accent tones. This will make a great space for guests to relax in as it’s far from the hustle and bustle of the home’s center. 

Studio Living

Man cave ideas for a small room - Farzaneh K.
Basement studio remodel ideas by Decorilla designer, Farzaneh K.

With a roomier basement, you can design a complete studio. This can either work for a family member wanting more independence or as a rental. Depending on your budget, you can include everything from a kitchenette, and en suite to a lounge area. 

A Basement Designer is Within Reach 

Do you need help bringing your basement design ideas to life? Then, schedule a Free Interior Design Consultation to learn more about your design options today!

online interior design service

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