Room Design
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By
Farima Ferguson
Farima Ferguson
Farima Ferguson began her career at HGTV where she worked with designers to write about home design. Her work has appeared in HGTV, Insider Reviews, Travel Channel, and more.
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Updated on 12/25/23
Fact checked by
Jessica Wrubel
Fact checked byJessica Wrubel
Jessica Wrubel has an accomplished background as a writer and copy editor, working for various publications, newspapers and in public libraries assisting with reference, research and special projects. In addition to her journalism experience, she has been educating on health and wellness topics for over 15 years in and outside of the classroom.
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A finished basem*nt has endless potential, and you can make the most of an unfinished basem*nt with these clever and stylish basem*nt ideas. From a bedroom to a studio apartment to the coveted game room, finishing your basem*nt not only adds value to your home but also functional square footage for the whole family. Once you've considered the basics of finishing a basem*nt, it's time to decide how you want to use the space and how you want to style it in a way that feels like a cohesive part of your house or an intentional getaway.
Ready to create your own subterranean hideaway? Here are 76 of our favorite finished basem*nt ideas from layout ideas to details to how to design a functional basem*nt space.
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Transform It Into an Apartment
Whether you're hoping to make a little extra income or you want a place to make family memories, try turning your finished basem*nt into a studio apartment. You'd probably never guess that this gorgeous studio apartment is actually a basem*nt. It has the character, charm (and natural light!) that most of us only dream of, and makes a perfect in-law suite or rental space.
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Give Your Game Room a Minimalist Look
When you think of a game room basem*nt, you may imagine bright colors, bold artwork and an all-around eclectic space. But, if less is more is your motto, you can still create a basem*nt game room you'll want to spend hours in. This basem*nt features a pool table and minimal artwork that brings interest to the room without making it feel overwhelming.
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Retreat to the Reading Nook
This colorful nook is a vibrant and playful spot to read a book or work on your creative hobbies like drawing. The green accent wall and floating shelves bring a cheerful look to the space especially when paired with the bubblegum pink chair. The plush chair has a curved back that's a great place to sit for hours to read. The metallic floor lamp brings a touch of glam and completes the whimsical look of the room.
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Create an Extra Area for Entertaining
Whether you want to add a second area to your home for entertaining or you're creating a lower-level apartment, this kitchen and living area is nicer than most main kitchens and living rooms, and we love how the design plays into the darker space rather than fight against it. The open shelving and mirror make the kitchen feel airy and open while offering ample workspace for all your family meals.
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Create an Entertainment Room
This expansive basem*nt features white walls and a contrasting black ceiling that create an eclectic space. A couple popular arcade games line one side of the basem*nt while a nearby sitting area is an inviting place to chat with friends with a drink. The space wouldn't be complete without the glass-enclosed wine cellar featuring industrial-style racks. This space has it all for a fun, entertaining night or a relaxing night enjoying a glass of wine with friends.
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Create a Room in a Room
If your basem*nt is a large, open space with lots of square footage, consider adding a few sections of drywall and carving out a room within a room. This could be a playroom within a large rec room or a home office in the midst of a family room.
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Channel Your Adventurous Side
Your teen's bedroom is their chance to show their personal style while showcasing their favorite hobbies. If your teen is the adventurous type, let them express that in their room's features and decor. This basem*nt bedroom features a rock climbing wall, durable carpeting and hiking trail maps as artwork. The staircase features a quiet reading nook underneath complete with comfortable pillows and a blanket for much needed downtime to read and do homework.
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Create a Mudroom
This basem*nt laundry room serves double duty as a mudroom to help keep the rest of the house clutter free. The hall tree in the corner of the room is a convenient place to hang bags and coats, while the storage cabinets underneath the hooks hold catchall items. A cushioned bench provides a place to take shoes off before entering the adjacent basem*nt kitchen.
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Enjoy Extra Kitchen Space
Sometimes one kitchen just isn't enough. This basem*nt kitchenette provides ample cabinet space for all the kitchen items you don't use daily, while the countertop space gives plenty of room to make your favorite co*cktail. The stainless steel backsplash and dark cabinetry mimic the style from the rest of the home for a cohesive look.
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Cook for a Large Gathering
When entertaining for a large gathering, a finished basem*nt with a second kitchen come in handy. This fullsize basem*nt kitchen provides an extra area to prepare meals for a large group and has a large mini fridge to hold plenty of drinks. The open shelving and glass cabinet door fronts help keep everything visible so guests can feel at home and help themselves.
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WFH in Style
You don't need a completely finished basem*nt to transform it into your home office. The exposed cement block walls and concrete flooring are spruced up with elegant furniture, a rug and a few simple decor items. This space may be minimal, but it encourages focus and is a functional area to get work done.
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Add a Rustic Look
The distressed wood kitchen island is the focal point in this basem*nt kitchen. The industrial-style bar stools provide the perfect place to sit while the host concocts their favorite co*cktails.
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Add Some Contrast
As soon as you walk down to this basem*nt, the stunning, white marble wall grabs your attention. The wall features a modern gas fireplace that enhances the sleek and minimalistic design of the rest of the room. The adjacent black-and-white accent wall adds a bold touch to this mostly-white space by creating a visually-appealing contrast. Just beyond this room is another seating area that's perfect for a more quiet evening of reading or listening to music.
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Create a Mini Oasis
The basem*nt is often a place for overnight guests to stay that give them privacy, and that includes having their own bathroom. The dark navy wall in this basem*nt bathroom adds an elegant look, while the white subway shower tiles and vanity brighten up the space to make it feel more open.
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Showcase Your Wine Collection
If you have an impressive wine collection, showcase it in a temperature-controlled wine cellar. The basem*nt is a smart place to store wine because it typically stays at a more consistent temperature than the rest of the home. A small tabletop provides a place to uncork bottles and collect all the corks.
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Skip the Gym Membership
You don't need a lot of space to create a gym at home. This was once a closet in the basem*nt, but now it is a gym with a couple pieces of equipment, mats and a painted accent wall for a touch of style. The contemporary-style barn door saves space in the basem*nt while still allowing privacy while getting a workout in.
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Install a Mural
A mural can add a light, bright, and artful fear to an otherwise plain basem*nt wall. Surround it with floor seating for a place guests will love to flop.
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Play Up the Drama
The rich, black walls and ceiling bring a moody, mysterious look to this basem*nt. One wall features a gallery, filled with framed photos of iconic musicians, that are displayed in a fun, playful pattern. But, the red velvet curtains steal the show with its luxurious color and texture that stand out against the black walls. A leather Chesterfield sofa adds more texture and elegance to the space, creating the ultimate room for a music lover.
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Provide Comfy Kitchen Seating
When you walk down in this basem*nt, you immediately notice the beautiful stone floor tiling that brings rustic charm and warmth to the room. The kitchen is equipped with everything you need to entertain, including comfortable leather stools for guests to sit and mingle as the host serves food.
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Keep Your House Clean
If you have a backyard pool, you know how messy it can get when you come inside from a long day of swimming. This small alcove in the basem*nt is trasformed into a place to store pool equipment, to dry off and to hang wet towels so the rest of your home stays clean and dry.
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Serve Your Favorite Libations
The basem*nt is oftentimes an extra place in the home to relax and enjoy a co*cktail, so it only make sense to have a wet bar in the space. This small basem*nt wall features a small bar area complete with a wine rack, wine glass holder, plenty of cabinet storage and countertop space and a sink to make serving guests easier. The warm cherry wood cabinets are the perfect complement to the tropical themed basem*nt.
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Host a Dinner Party
This basem*nt dining area is anchored by a large, wood dining table that's great for hosting a dinner party or for enjoying a game or two of chess. The kitchenette makes food prep and serving easier, while the warm wood accent ceiling draws the eye up. The nearby staircase is a modern touch when paired with the white textured wall.
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Make the Bathroom Stylish
Just because a bathroom is in a basem*nt, doesn't mean it has to be low on your redesigning to-do list. This basem*nt bathroom has it all when it comes to style, from the distressed wood, floating vanity to the shiplap navy walls that bring texture and depth to the room. The room combines modern and traditional elements to create a timeless and elegant design.
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Keep It Simple
A home gym will save you a lot of money and can help you stay consistent with your workouts, and it can be as easy as setting up a couple pieces of equipment. This home gym is simple yet has everything you need for a complete workout. A small buffet table holds yoga equipment and shoes, while a storage basket holds yoga mats. A treadmill, resistance bands and a TV provide everything you need to get a good workout in.
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Brew Your Own Beers
Think of your basem*nt area as a flex room where you can practice your hobbies. If your hobby is something like brewing your own beer, the basem*nt is a great place to keep all the tools away from the rest of your home while still having enough space. This basem*nt features a chalkboard, a working sink and a brewery sign to complete the space.
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Add Color to a Wet Bar
A wet bar in the basem*nt is the ultimate goal when creating a lower level entertaining space, and you can elevate the area with color. Go bright and bold to make it a styled, curated room where guests will be happy to grab a drink.
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Hang Up a Collection
Have an incredible collection of vintage vinyl records? Rather than putting them in a cabinet, hang them on the wall in a basem*nt to create a quirky background for a rec room.
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Add Built-In Storage
If you have the space, use it to its full potential. This large basem*nt features built-in cabinets that help keep this home gym clutter free. The all-white design makes the space feel open and clean.
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Keep It Classic
This basem*nt is designed to be both functional and inviting, with a variety of features that are perfect for relaxing and entertaining, from the comforable leather sofa to the fully stocked kitchenette. The center of the room features a classic pool table for a friendly competition with friends and family. The dining table towards the back of the basem*nt is a perfect spot to take a break to eat dinner or enjoy a beer, while the kitchenette provides a convenient area to prepare food and drinks.
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Utilize the Under Stair Area
If there's an open area under your stairs, utilize it for well designed storage. Install shelves and use pretty covered fabric boxes.
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Increase Joy in Your Home Office
As remote work becomes more and more popular, so does the need for a productiveworkspace at home. Consider transforming your finished basem*nt into a wonderful home office, like this bright and colorful one. The bright design and use of color are perfect for boosting creativity. We love the use of multiple textures, and the wallpapered ceiling adds dimension without making the space feel small or cramped.
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Create a Cozy Ambiance
The floor-to-ceiling stone accent wall is the focal point of this basem*nt. The wall features natural stone in varying shades that bring a touch of warmth and texture to the space. In the center of the stone wall is a built-in modern gas fireplace that enhances the warm and inviting feel of the room and perfectly complements the natural beauty of the stone wall. A large sectional across the fireplace is ideal for hosting friends or for enjoying solo time for a midday nap or movie night.
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Transform a Basem*nt Closet
A small basem*nt closet makes an ideal wine cellar. All you need is a wooden wine bottle rack and holder and a small countertop for extra storage. This basem*nt wine cellar also features a window into the rest of the basem*nt so guests can peer in to see the collection.
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Paint it Dark
When you have a space with low light, painting it dark can help bring out its moodiness. It creates a sleek look in a basem*nt space.
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Add Built-In Storage
Sure, an unfinished basem*nt can store boxes, but who likes to dig around in a dank, dark basem*nt to find what you need? Instead, consider adding charming built-ins to your basem*nt living space. Not only will you have more space to store photo albums, extra kitchenware and other knick knacks, but depending on type of storage unit, you can use it as a makeshift bar.
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Make It Bold
The rich, dark blue hue on the walls adds a sense of depth and drama to this home office basem*nt. The color is warm and inviting, yet provides a sense of focus and productivity. The high-end leather chairs add extra texture and elegance to the room, while the fun artwork adds a touch of personality and charm to help balance out the space.
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Enjoy a Night of Music Writing
This musician's sanctuary has it all, from the collection of guitars on the wall to the ceiling light that resembles a set of drums. The large sectional provides a place for musician friends to collaborate and enjoy a night of music writing together.
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Create a Functional Bathroom
Even the smallest of basem*nt bathrooms can be highly functional. This small bathroom features a slim and sleek vanity that provides plenty of countertop space for guests to store their toiletries and drawers so you can store extra items they may need during their stay. The horse print reflects the owner's personal style and adds a bit of whimsy to the bathroom.
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Create a Calming Bedroom Space
Use natural textures and colors like sage green and gray to create a calming guests bedroom space that makes friends and family feel like they've checked into a boutique hotel. They'll forget they're in a basem*nt when surrounded by details like wallpaper and wainscoting.
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Create a Coffee Station
When guests stay at your house, they may not have the same morning schedule as you. To help them feel at home and comfortable, provide a small spot with all the coffee essentials for them to make their coffee how and when they like it. This small kitchenette sits in the area underneath the stairs, often called the spandrel, making great use of this normally unused space.
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Add a Farmhouse Look
From the multiple coat hooks to the simple storage, this laundry area will make washing, drying and ironing more efficient. The built-in storage keeps the clutter at bay and adds a farmhouse feel to the basem*nt.
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Host a Movie Night
From the bright red walls to the galaxy ceiling, this home theater is reminiscent of a theater from your childhood. The biggest difference is the money you'll save and the comfortable seating you'd never find in the theater. Plus, no noisy movie goers.
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Make Laundry Day Easier
If your main house doesn't have enough space to do your laundry, it may be worth installing a washer and dryer hookup in your basem*nt. This basem*nt features plenty of cabinet and countertop space for storing all the essential cleaning items and room to fold clothes straight out of the dryer.
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Design a Bright and Airy Home Office
This basem*nt home office may have a low ceiling, but it feels bright and airy thanks to the soft color palette and wall stickers that extend up to the ceiling, helping draw the eye up. The soft blue wainscoting adds texture and interest to the space, while floating shelves provide storage without taking up too much wall space. A chaise lounge is a spot to relax when you need a break from work.
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Install a Resort-Style Shower
This basem*nt shower got a complete makeover, from the sleek glass door to the white subway tiling. A built-in bench is perfect for guests to feel at home and enjoy a long, luxurious shower. The glass door makes the bathroom feel more spacious and airy by allowing plenty of natural light in.
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Use a Light, Coastal Color Scheme
The downfall of basem*nts is often that they feel dark and dreary. By utilizing a light, coastal color scheme, you can instantly make the space feel more welcoming. Try white, ivory, and light blue, all in different textures.
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Create a Makeshift Mudroom
No mudroom, no problem. The space underneath this basem*nt staircase is large enough to fit furniture and a coat rack that act as a makeshift mudroom. This is also an opportunity to hang your hat collection on the wall that doubles as one-of-a-kind artwork.
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Create a Cozy Sanctuary
If you live in a cold climate, a basem*nt can be a warm and cozy sanctuary to hibernate in. This basem*nt living area features dark walls and cabinetry that warm up the space, while a gas fireplace and plenty of cozy throws add texture and warmth.
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Create a Space Fit for a Winery
This kitchen setup resembles a countryside winery with its natural stone backsplash and dark wood cabinetry. A wine bottle cabinet and mini fridge hold favorite bottles of wine, while leather stools provide a place for friends to gather for drinks and conversation. Your guests will feel like they're visiting their favorite winery in a space like this.
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Enjoy Your Book Collection
A basem*nt is oftentimes secluded and quiet, so it only makes sense to convert it into a home library. These built-in shelves beautifully display a book collection as well as some collected decor items for a sophisticated look. A matching velvet sofa tucks neatly into the alcove and provides a spot to quietly enjoy reading your favorite books.
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Host Game Night
If you love gathering and hosting friends to watch your favorite team play, make sure all your guests have full view of the TV. This basem*nt features a comfortable sofa as well as a bar top table with multiple chairs for guests who want to comfortably eat and drink while watching the game. During halftime and after the game, you can keep the party going by playing a competetive game of shuffle board or guests can cozy up by the gas fireplace.
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Turn Your Bathroom Into a Spa Space
If you have a bathroom in the basem*nt, take the opportunity to turn into a relaxing spa space. Wood walls and a sauna can turn it into a calming retreat.
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Display an Accent Wall
The black-and-white accent wall is a bold, focal point in this basem*nt TV room. The horizontal lines make the low-ceiling room feel larger, while the the rest of the walls are kept white for a more open, airy look. Even though the space is small, the sectional provides seating for plenty of friends.
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Display a Gallery Wall
Don't forget the basem*nt when it comes to your home's design. This basem*nt design shines with a colorful gallery wall that reflect's the owner's personal aesethetic. Cozy throws and blankets, as well as items from travel give the basem*nt a collected over time look that will stand the test of time.
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Go Hygge-Wild
Here's another cozy finished basem*nt design that adds a lot of living space to your home. This living room fromutilizes natural light to create a Scandinavian-inspired retreat that provides a great area to lounge or host guests. Keep the furniture and color paletteneutral and relaxed to maintain a low-key, modern vibe.
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Experiment With Color
Not sure if you want to go bold on color in your home? The basem*nt is one way you can experiment with colors you've been wanting to design your home in but aren't sure you will love. This teal basem*nt kitchenette shows that a fun experiment with color can add a visually appealing look to an otherwise dark basem*nt.
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Get Crafty
Having space in your home to get your creative juices flowing and work on your hobbies can be therapuetic for some people. If you don't have the room in your main house to create a spot like this, converting your basem*nt into a craft space is a great option. Not only does this craft space feature clever pegboard wall storage, but the wall and ceiling treatment inspire creativity while making the room feel larger. A large desk is a comfortable spot to try out new crafts, while a hanging hammock chair completes the fun space.
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Provide Plenty of Seating
If you love to host board game nights, the basem*nt is a place in the home where you have your own area to be as comfortable as possible with all your friends. Providing enough seating can make or break a game night, so adding a large sectional surrounding a table is the ideal setup for a night playing games with friends.
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Go Dark
Black paint and light furniture adds drama and style to a basem*nt entryway, especially if it greets you right at the bottom of the stairs.
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Break Out the Exposed Brick
Exposed brick lends a bar feel to a basem*nt, giving it an old school look, particularly when paired with a classic ping pong table.
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Heat Things Up
What's better than relaxing and sweating out the toxins after a long day? Not much, and designating a place in your basem*nt for a suana if you can is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
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Embrace Eclectic Decor
A basem*nt doesn't have to be an overthought. Lean into a patterned, eclectic look in the basem*nt for a moody look.
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Add Vibrant Art
If you have a minimalist basem*nt with a pool table then adding vibrant art can be a unique pop that keeps the space feeling styled.
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Lean Into a Monochromatic Color Scheme
A sleek monochromatic gray color scheme embraces the feeling of a basem*nt while also giving it an air of sophistication. Make sure to use sumptuous fabrics to keep it from feeling cold.
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Install Wainscoting on the Wall
Bright white wainscoting will give your basem*nt a light and airy, farmhouse-inspired feel. Layer it with textured ivory fabrics and timeless prints like checks and block print.
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Add a Kids' Area
If you want to keep the playroom out of the main living area of your home, use the basem*nt as a kids' space. Add elements like a tent that will instantly make children feel as if they have their own little hideaway.
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Paint it White
White paint works wonders in a space without abundant light coming from windows! As long as you pick the right white, the space will feel bright and airy as if it's been naturally lit.
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Build Storage Into the Wall
Built-ins are your best friend in a basem*nt space where you plan on carving out a home office or tackling craft projects. Utilize a long, empty wall by installing built-in shelves. Choose matching boxes and containers to keep the space feeling cohesive and styled.
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Stack Up Bunk Beds
Want to make the most of your basem*nt guest bedroom space? Turn to old school bunk beds. You can easily fit a row of double decker beds to fit as many people into a space as possible.
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Hang a Swing
A swing and a small clubhouse make this basem*nt a destination. It becomes a fun hangout for kids and adults alike, where they can kick back, relax, and get away from the hustle and bustle of the day.
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Design a Laundry Area
Gone are the days of tiptoeing into the basem*nt to use an old washer and dryer that is set amidst storage boxes and cobwebs. You can turn your basem*nt into a styled, bright laundry area where sorting your lights and darks doesn't feel like a chore.
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Go to the Ceiling With Built-Ins
Basem*nts don't often have soaring ceilings, but you can make the ceiling feel higher by extending built-ins all the way to the ceiling. The longer line accentuates the space that you do have.
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Go With a Glam Space
If you have your home office in the basem*nt, go totally glam to add light and style to the space. Hang a chandelier, install lights in the built-ins, embrace mirrors on every surface. It will all reflect light and make the space seem bigger and brighter.
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Hang Wallpaper in the Fitness Area
A workout area in the basem*nt room may be a standard move, but how often do you see one styled with wallpaper and a neon sign? This fitness room makes it a delight to fit in a morning workout.
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Paint Built-Ins a Colorful Hue
Cheer up basem*nt built-ins with a vibrant hue, like this coastal blue. It makes a basem*nt entertaining and media space feel elevated and creates a eye-catching backdrop for styling your favorite items in a vignette.
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Install a Small Kitchen
Even if your basem*nt is short on square footage, there still might be room to install a small but efficient kitchen. Whether you plan to turn the basem*nt into an entertaining area or a guest space, this bonus kitchen will add both function and value to your home.