Ideas for Basement Rooms

When you're working with a wide open space like a basement, the options are endless for creating the living area you've always envisioned.

By Caroline Shannon-Karasik

Need ideas for your basement rooms? An unfinished space offers a wealth of design opportunities.

Whether you're planning on using your basement for storage or gutting it to make it into a chic office space, there are a number of ways you can design your basement rooms.

Lounge-Worthy Ideas for Basement Rooms

If storage is the name of your game, then build shelving that extends from the top to bottom of basement walls. Use containers to store out-of-season clothing and holiday decorations, and hang racks from the ceiling to store sports equipment, like bikes or hockey sticks.

A completely refinished basement can serve as an entertainment room, complete with a lounge area, big-screen television and bar. If out-of-town guests frequent your home, then you may want to consider turning your basement into a space for company, adding a bathroom, bedroom and kitchenette. A basement can also be an ideal space for a kids' playroom, office, fitness area, workstation or game room.

Many of these rooms also work together for a basement that can be divided into two sections. If an entertainment area is your top choice for a finished basement, then you might leave room for an enclosed office space. On the other hand, a laundry room takes up little room, leaving space for a workstation, crafting area or recreation room.

Furniture, paint colors, flooring and lighting fixtures will add the finishing touches, making your basement rooms unique to your style and budget.

See also: Planning a Basement Remodel