See the below link for the answers Here is a link that might be useful: link

Hi, I apologize as this is a bit off topic for the kitchen forum. However, who knows cabinetry design better than Kitchen design fans? We are a family heavy on storage as I am a Kindergarten teacher and probably own more than 50 banker boxes of kindergarten teaching supplies (no I'm not kidding). We also are a family of six, and as you know storage increases for each person. We are trying to integrate storage into our basement layout design, and wonder if you have any design suggestions to optimize storage. Also you will see a small kitchenette/bar that the teenagers will use to snack and entertain. We are limited as to where plumbing can go so this must stay where we show it, or move to the area marked rough-in for future kitchen. I don't want to break the bank on these built ins so I welcome any cost savings ideas you may have. I still want this room to look attractive so don't want too much open storage. Perhaps I would consider using some Ikea components, as long as they were sturdy enough. At the bottom of this post is a link for an inspiration photo of built-ins around basement windows (see third image on the link with the closed cupboards). I also don't want to cover up any of our basement windows. Here is the basement layout we showing the area for built-ins and the kitchenette. I apologize, but for some reason I can't upload a large version. However, if you click on the image you will be directed to my photobucket where you can zoom in. TIA! Carol This post was edited by OntarioMom on Mon, Feb 18, 13 at 21:53

I would get a lower cabinet that fits between the baseboard heaters, so that the T.V is at the proper viewing height and unless you have a ton of stuff you need to display or store add some art on either side and save your self a ton of dusting.

The accent stone wall can be a beautiful texture to blend with your farmhouse look if done correctly. Here are a few inspiration photos to motivate you to embrace the stone. You could have your island refaced as in photo one or photo two painted in a lighter color as suggested below. Take down wall cabinets and have mirrored back wall for light with gold modern and glass shelving. Update Hardware on cabinets. Create a bar or accent and fun objects. New counter tops as below and I would not do pendant lighting I would do recessed lighting as ceilings are low. Another option to have metal racks on stone wall for wine display. Lighter unified flooring will help as well and have you said which flooring color yet? If so a photo would be helpful. Also, what are you going to be using this space for? What a fun project to work on as you have a wonderful lower level space to work with and good luck.