Basement Remodeling

So, you've decided to remodel your basement, and make use of that space down there. But where do you begin?

Well, the first thing to do, is decide what you want to do with that space. Do you want to add a bedroom or two? An office? Or do you simply want some more storage space?

Once you know just what you want to add in the basement, you need to start planning where it will go. Take into account things like lighting, plumbing, and electricity. Is there enough light? If not, you'll need to plan on adding some more lighting to the area. If you need more electrical outlets, you'll need to plan on adding those, or having someone add them. Also take into account the plumbing needs of your basement.

Get some graph paper, and sketch out your current basement, marking lights, windows, doors, electrical outlets. Then make a few copies of the sketch, and use those to help plan where everything will go.

Try to have everything planned out in advance, before you even start working. It's much better to know exactly where everything is to go before you start, so you don't get halfway through the project, and realize that you needed an outlet on the wall, or a light fixture above that counter. If you have everything planned out first, it will save a lot of headaches later.

Your basement is usually the darkest part of the home. Proper lighting is essential to keep the basement from looking like a dark cave. Proper lighting can help to make a small space look much larger.

Use natural lighting as much as possible. If part of your basement is above ground, then consider adding windows, or enlarging the current windows.

In some cases, windows just are not practical, and you'll need to use artificial lighting. If you have room, then recessed lighting fixtures work well. Since the ceiling is usually lower in the basement, recessed fixtures keep the lights up, out of the way. Wall sconces are another good option to keep people from hitting their heads on lighting fixtures.

Use some directional lighting to help highlight specific areas, like a painting or certain architectural features. Mirrors can serve a dual purpose, serving as decorative items in their own right, as well as reflecting light, and helping to visually expand a room.