A Gloomy Basement Lightens Up
White paint, modern furnishings and exposed beams lend a bright and airy feel to a family's renovated basement
This loftlike basement wasn't always bright and airy; it had oppressive, low ceilings and was used as a dumping ground for odds and ends around the house. But architect and builder Bruce Wentworth saw potential in the basement and envisioned it as a fun family room with a more laid-back feel than the home's upper floors. Together with the homeowners, Wentworth and his team created a space that houses the media room, a small home office and a sunny play area.
"The rest of the house is very much in line with their traditional Colonial Revival architecture. But they are big fans of Scandinavian interiors and furniture and were very open to exploring a more modern approach for the basement," says Wentworth.
"The rest of the house is very much in line with their traditional Colonial Revival architecture. But they are big fans of Scandinavian interiors and furniture and were very open to exploring a more modern approach for the basement," says Wentworth.
BEFORE: The basement's low ceiling prevented the family from spending much time in the space.
AFTER: Wentworth solved the problem of uneven floor slabs in the basement by pouring a liquid leveler prior to installing large-scale porcelain tiles. The tiles resist moisture and stains and are easy to clean, making them a great choice for a basement family room and play area.
"There are two young children in the house, so the basement is used as a playroom for the kids, a TV and media room for the adults and a lounge that feels more modern and cozy," says Wentworth.
If funds were unlimited, Wentworth says, his clients would go in the direction of a full house overhaul. "But in the meantime, it's nice for them to have this refreshing change in the basement."
Cabinets on this level give the family more storage and organization options for toys and loose items.
Cabinets on this level give the family more storage and organization options for toys and loose items.
Wentworth created a cozy home office desk from birch veneer plywood in a small corner by the entrance. Built-in shelves and a floating desk give the clients plenty of space beneath.
"It's a little sanctuary for the husband to study, learn new languages — all while the kids are still within plain view," says Wentworth.
More:
10 Tips for Renovating Your Basement
"It's a little sanctuary for the husband to study, learn new languages — all while the kids are still within plain view," says Wentworth.
More:
10 Tips for Renovating Your Basement
"Instead of trying to fuse the look of the basement with the traditional design of the upper floors, we opted for a simpler design that reflected their current taste and lifestyle," Wentworth says.