Architect Louis Kahn once said, “We are born of light. The seasons are felt through light. We only know the world as it is evoked by light.”
A basement remodel can turn your dark, dingy, unfinished space into a warm, bright, and inviting one, especially when effective lighting is included. Using the right amount of light in the basement can enhance the room’s other design elements, increase the home’s value, and add to the enjoyment of the space.
“When thinking about lighting in your basement, it’s important to consider what action will be going on the basement and cater your lights to those activities,” said David Kallie, MCR, CKBR, CAPS, president and CEO of Dimension Inc. “Adding more artificial light retroactively is difficult, so it is important to think through your options when planning your remodel.”
Consider these lighting fixtures:
Recessed Lights
“Ambient lighting, or lighting that covers the entire space, is best achieved through recessed lights in a basement,” David said. “Ideal for spaces with low ceilings, recessed lights are mostly contained in the ceiling with only the trim showing.”
They work well in seating, dining, and craft areas, as well as game rooms, as ping pong balls or pool cues won’t damage them.
Wall Sconces
Gone are the days when wall sconces were only used in a home theatre. They can also be applied in areas where the overhead light doesn’t quite do the trick.
“Wall sconces are more versatile than many homeowners think,” said David. “Their shades can open at the top when used for general lighting, or face down when meant for task lighting, like a reading light.”
Pendant and Track Lighting
Pendant lights drop down from the ceiling and illuminate a certain area. “Pendant lights are great for task or accent lighting,” David said. “We often see them over a bar or dining room or even above a special art piece.”
Track lighting is used for similar purposes, although these are individual, movable lights that attach to a solid or wire track, offering some flexibility.
Solar Tubes
“While it’s true that basements are the rooms with the least amount of natural light, Dimension Design-Build-Remodel installs solar tubes,” said David. Solar tubes capture and transfer sunlight through reflective tubing, giving the space some soft light while helping homeowners save on electricity bills.
As Kahn also said, “A room is not a room without natural light.”
Every basement is unique. What can you do with your space and your remodeling budget? When you’re ready to find out, call Dimension Design-Build-Remodel at 262-402-6602 or email davekallie@dimension-dbr.com.