DPO Construction Company Inc

In the past, basements were considered an unused and unutilized space. For many kids, it was where the scary things lived. Now all that has changed and homeowners have an increased interest in basement remodeling. Homeowners have realized that they can put this large expansive space to good use and maybe even add value to their home in the process.

In the beginning, basement remodeling was implemented to add storage, an extra bedroom, or a place for the kids to play. While adding a basement bedroom is still common, homeowners are expanding their options and function of the basement. We have come across basements turned into game rooms, home theaters and some individuals have set up personal museums to showcase their expanding collections. Some lucky homeowners are able to incorporate all of these things into their basement space.

In 2018, basement remodeling requests will increase as homeowners seek to expand their homes living space. Here are the hottest trends we are expecting for the year.

1. Open Concept Still in Vogue

Top Trends in Basement Design – DPO Construction
Open concept has been a big part of current home design. Traditionally, rooms have been closed off from each other–divided by walls. But an open concept layout tears down those walls to create barrier-free spaces that allow you to pass freely from one area to another.

An open concept basement design takes advantage of the naturally expansive nature of the basement to create an updated modern style that promotes community. You can have multi-purpose spaces in the basement but they all open up to each other; from the game room to the bar area, from the family sitting area to the theatre room and so on.

For small basements, the open concept design maximizes the limited amount of real estate without having to take away square footage for walls. With this design, the perception of additional light and space you have more freedom to mix and match styles to creating your own personal sanctuary.

On the downside to an open approach, it does not provide any privacy; so forget about adding a man/woman cave or a quite personal office.

2. Making it an Extension of Your Home

In the past, the basement has been something of an experimental paint canvas. The fact that it is hidden from view instills a sense of freedom when it comes to choosing its style. Homeowners feel freer to go with bold, and sometimes extravagant choices.

But more and more, homeowners are considering the basement as an integral extension of the upstairs living space. As you step from the main house and go down the stairs to the basement, the finishing remains the same. The colors, flooring and overall style do not change radically; it feels like just another room in the house.

This allows the basement to be put to a variety of uses such as a family game area, an extra sleep space, a home wine cellar and so on. For homeowners planning to sell, this easy transition can help boost the value of the home, as well as square footage. Instead of seeing an extra space that has no value, potential buyers see extra living space that is comparable to the main living area.

If you are planning a renovation, you need to choose between creating a space with a personal style or establishing an extension of your current living space using similar finishes. The choice is yours.

3. Enclosed Theater Rooms vs. Open TV Spaces

When it comes to designing a basement media room, homeowners have two options; an enclosed theater room or an open TV space. A theater room is generally for the real enthusiast. They want all the adornments that would enhance the experience: enclosed walls, plush reclining seats, a projection screen, surround sound, LED floor lighting and maybe even a popcorn machine. An open TV space is more casual and much more cost effective to set up. It actually feels more like a living room because it resembles a typical living room with media equipment added.

The traditional theater room has been the dream for most homeowners. But considering the cost and stress of setting one up and the increasing appeal of open concept design, 2018 will see more homeowners opting for open TV spaces.

They could even be integrated with kitchenettes or bar areas to create a full entertainment area. Granted, an open TV space does not have the same secluded feel and immersion as a closed theater but it has its own upsides.

In the end, however, the choice comes down to you and your budget. What are your preferences?

4. In-Law Suites

Creating an extra bedroom for the in-laws in the basement is all well and good. But for families where in-laws visit often, you might want to go bigger. One of the hottest basement design trends for 2018 involves creating full guest suites for in-laws. Of course, the size and complexity of such a suite will depend on your budget and available basement space.

A basic suite generally includes the bedroom and a bathroom on-suite. Something a bit more generous would perhaps include a lounge area alongside the bedroom or a morning bar close to the bathroom. If you have a really large basement, you could design a full suite with a living room, kitchenette, multiple bedrooms and state of the art bathroom(s).

In-law suites are a great idea if your family comes to visit often or for an extended time. This gives everyone a comfortable place to stay with enough room and privacy. Or you might possibly have loved ones interested in “aging in place”. Why not invite them in and create a new home.

5. Walkout Basements

A walkout basement is different because not all of it is foundation walls are submerged underground. This feature is great for homes built on a sloping lot or hillside, meaning that only part of the basement is submerged under the ground. The advantage of such a basement is that it receives more natural light and can be accessed directly from the outside.

But even the traditional submerged basement can be remodeled into something similar. In fact, a walkout basement is one of the emerging basement design trends for 2018. It requires a lot of planning and you might need local permission, but the results are nothing short of amazing.

Renovating your basement into a walkout basement involves exposing one side of it such that you can build a door and windows facing the exterior. In addition to being able to access your basement from the outside, more natural light will stream in, turning your dark and damp area into viable living space. If you were planning to sell, this can seriously boost the value of your home.

The most important thing is to work with a skilled and experienced contractor who can ensure safety and the best quality work. For more ideas, check out our previous projects for design ideas at https://www.Dpoconstruction.net

6. Music Auditoriums

People are already familiar with basement theater rooms. But what about an entire music room or auditorium stage in your basement? If you love music and you easily spend hours listening or playing it, this is a trend you will want to hang onto as it gets more popular.

A music room will vary in design and size depending on your needs and budget. It can be a simple small soundproofed room where you practice your piano or an entire music themed mini-auditorium where you invite friends and family for jam sessions.

Setting up a music room requires preplanning and consideration. Issues like soundproofing, extra power outlets, lighting, and safety must be taken into account. Don’t forget that friends and family will want to enjoy the music too. So consider adding a comfortable seating area for them too.

7. Sports Room with Multiple Televisions

If you do not want to turn your basement into another bedroom or a theater room or even a music auditorium, you could always create a sports room. Sports rooms are fairly common in homes and will get more popular in 2018.

The basement is a great place to set up a sports room because it provides an out-of-the-way spot where you can get as rowdy as you want without disturbing others. With a large basement, you can also set up something big enough to enjoy with a large group of friends and family.

For the full experience, consider setting up multiple televisions and do not forget a quality sound system. A sports room goes naturally with other spaces such as a bar area or a gaming area. You could also set up a kitchenette where you can whip up quick sandwiches or grab a cool beverage mid-game instead of having to keep going upstairs. Adequate storage and comfortable seating are key elements to your sports room.

8. Lounge Spaces for Everyone

The home office can mean so many different things to different people. You may need a dedicated workspace for a home office or a more casual small laptop nook within a room that allows more flexibility. Either way, a well-designed home office should include a comfortable workstation(s), good lighting, adequate storage, and any technology essentials. If privacy is the key ingredient to make a successful office, then I would consider carving out a space in the basement. Perhaps with some extra soundproofing? No matter how much the kids try and distract you, this new office space will exceed your expectations in productivity.

9. Home Brewery or Mini Pub

If a bar area is too small for you, why not set up a home basement brewery and make your own craft beers to enjoy with friends. You can even take it a step further and set up a personal mini-pub and invite your friends for a drink as they watch a game or two. Here, you need your décor to convey the feeling of a real pub with all the lighting and seating and music providing an authentic experience.

10. Home Gym and Spa

This is actually a popular idea that keeps appealing to more and more homeowners. With its large open space and ideal location, the basement is perfect for a gym. In fact, go one step further and set up an at home spa with all the luxuries of one including a steam shower, sauna and massage area.

A home gym and spa can be set up in a basement of any size. If you have a large basement, you have the freedom to bring in several workout machines, add a sauna, a shower area and so on. You can even invite a workout partner or two. If you are more limited on space, do not worry, you can still have your own gym and mini-spa. Just limit your workout machines to one or two then integrate the steam shower and massage area into the basement bathroom.

11. Multi-Tasking Spaces

In a small basement where real estate is limited, multi-tasking allows you to put the same space to multiple uses. It is an effective way of maximizing space. For example, you could set up a small library that also serves as your home office. Or you could have a lounge area that is kids’ play area during the day, then a TV room for the adults when the kids are asleep.

You can even have a bedroom and a lounge area then use a room divider to set them apart. One simple, but stylish divider idea is a sliding barn door. If you cannot find or afford this, something as simple as a bookcase can serve as a temporary room divider.

Conclusion

Basement design has clearly taken over homes by storm. People are finding real creative uses for their basement, expanding their viable living space and increasing their home value in the process. The ideas are endless, and you can even put a single basement space to multiple uses as we have listed above.

So, do not let your basement waste away, start thinking of how it can benefit your family and your home. What are you going to turn it into? Call DPO Construction Company Inc to make your basement come to life (402) 592-1060 🙂