The best basements are the ones that get used, which means the best basement finishing ideas will depend on the homeowner. Do you need an in-law suite or a place where teenagers can have their own space? Do you wish you could entertain friends? Do you want young children to have a play area, or do you want your own yoga studio?

The options for how you can use your lower level are almost endless if you choose a design/build firm that knows how to properly finish a basement. “Basements are a great opportunity to add extra living space in a home, especially for growing families,” said Dimension Inc. president and CEO David Kallie, CR, CAPS. “Those are the people that call us most often needing more room for the kids to play, or another bedroom.”

According to the team of experienced designers at Dimension Design-Build-Remodel, Inc., these are the most popular basement finishing ideas.

Basement Apartment or Bedroom.

Whether the family is growing, the grandparents are moving in, or the teenager needs a separate space, transforming the basement into an apartment or added bedroom is convenient and adds to your property value. Goals for this project will include brightening the space, removing and controlling moisture, having an exterior door (or at least an egress window), and of course building to code.

Entertainment Ideas.

It could be as simple as a second living room, or an amazing as a home theater. A finished basement is a great place for relaxing and entertaining. “When it comes to entertaining, the basement wet bar is most popular,” Kallie said. “Some just want a small bar area, while others want a full kitchen and wine cellar. It will depend on the space, the budget, and the homeowners needs.”

Children’s Playroom

If you’re tired of toys scattered everywhere, it’s a great idea to design a space in the basement that’s tailored to the kids. The playroom can feature plentiful storage, colors and furniture that inspire creativity, durable and washable flooring and fabrics, quiet corners, and a room for gaming and movies.

Home Gym

Whether the goal is weightlifting, cardio exercise, yoga, or a place to practice dance or karate, the basement can provide a nice open space for equipment, wall mirrors, and best of all – privacy. “If you’ve got your own workout space, you don’t have to drive anywhere, pay fees, or care what you look like when working out,” Kallie said. Specializing in healthy homes and air quality, Dimension Design-Build-Remodel will ensure proper ventilation and air circulation. Other considerations for the basement home gym are appropriate flooring, higher ceilings, and storage.

Finishing your basement is a great investment, keeping in mind the need to hire a professional design/build firm that is skilled in fully managing the moisture in your lower level. This project will require an expert understanding of subfloors, insulation, wall planning, electrical code, egress requirements, effective basement lighting, and more.

Do you need more basement finishing ideas? The Dimension Design-Build-Remodel team would be happy to meet with you to discuss the best basement finishing ideas for your space and lifestyle. Call 262-402-6602 or complete our contact form to get your project started.