Multifunctional Family Basement

When starting this remodel, designer Bryan Sebring of Sebring Services knew the resulting space would be beautiful.

When the homeowner decided to increase the budget for finishes, the space turned into a stunning custom-designed basement.

Bryan shares with us how he created a space that combined a wine cellar, theater room, game room, workout area and even a steam shower.

Describe the homeowner's wish list.

She wanted a place for her high school kids to hang out, an adult sitting area/wine-tasting space, a workout room and a steam shower.

What were the homeowner's design problems?

How to tie the two main spaces, the wine-tasting room and TV area together.

What was your biggest obstacle in this space?

The space was already finished. Sometimes, when the existing walls are already in place, the homeowners can have a tough time visualizing the new space.

How does the end result match up with your original vision?

The homeowner expanded the finishes tremendously, including the stone, faux painting, imported floor tile and workout room rubber flooring. Once we started, the project evolved into an amazing space.

What lessons did you learn?

At the beginning of a project, you can guess what a customer may like and the prices associated with their likes, but until you go through all the selections, there is no way to know what they are going to spend.

What are the "hidden gems"?

We installed a split-system cooling unit under the stairs coming down from the first floor so we could cool the glass-enclosed wine cellar. The cabinets have a beautiful crackle finish, and we coated the stone with a Unilock exterior gloss finish to make the dark colors of the stone pop.