August 23, 2020 | Remodel
When it comes to North Georgia homes, there are certain elements we have come to expect. Among those are enough garage space to keep vehicles protected from the hot Georgia sun, open floor plans, and kitchens big enough to accommodate friends and family. But it also turns out Georgians like basements.
Of course, the North Georgia basement is not likely to be the dark, damp, concrete cavern used for storing old bicycles and Christmas decorations that may come to mind when we hear the word “basement.” Today we envision all the ways we can turn a home’s foundation into a valuable, functional space to serve just about any idea imaginable.
While an unfinished basement does work great for extra storage space, a finished basement could be used much more effectively. A lower-level, finished basement remodel can transform under-utilized space into an additional living area, home theater, home gym, or playroom. It’s not hard to see why so many people love their basements. This space can provide plenty of extra room to work, play, relax, or entertain. It’s a versatile area that can be updated and repurposed over time. Even better, basement remodels and finishing tend to have a good return on investment and can give your property’s value a major boost, which is always a plus.
Whether you envision a pool table, ping pong table, climbing wall, media room, playroom (for the children or the adults), second kitchen, bar, or extra bedrooms, Michael James Remodeling can help. Let’s first take a look at some of the possibilities before digging into some important things you might want to consider before tackling the basement of your dreams.
Possibilities
Home Office
Now more than ever, home offices are becoming essential. Whether you’re self-employed, a remote worker, a freelancer, or you simply want a quiet place to write or pay bills at the end of the day, a home office space can be a valuable addition to your home. Look for a corner of the basement that is away from other activity. Your basement home office may be a good place to consider some soundproofing. While it may be hard to find in a basement, we suggest utilizing a part of the basement with natural light. Studies have shown that natural light can improve productivity in a number of ways including improved creativity, mood elevation, and reduced eye strain.
Home Gym
Having a dedicated workout space in your home can make it much easier to commit to keeping fit, without having to find the time to head over to the local gym. The basement can be the perfect place to set up your favorite exercise equipment. Your basement is likely to have enough space to dedicate to fitness so your treadmill doesn’t wind up doubling as a clothes hanger. In addition to setting up your gym favorites, you may also consider setting up fans, extra ventilation, a convenient shower, or even a sauna.
Kids Playroom
Are toys taking over your entire home? It may be time for a finished basement playroom. The basement can be an ideal space for letting kids run and play. Carpeted floors and non-slip mats can help make the space safe and comfortable. Creative storage and built-ins can be added to stash toys and games when playtime is over.
Home Bar / Wine Cellar / Tasting Room
With a little imagination and planning, you can turn your basement into a bar area perfect for football or after-work happy hours. Add a full wet bar with a fridge and icemaker or a small kitchenette for storing drinks and snacks for game time. Or if you are a serious connoisseur of wine or whiskey, take it to the next level and turn your basement into a luxurious wine cellar or an intimate tasting room.
Game Room
Whether you want a “man cave” or the neighborhood go-to party spot for you or the kids, why not use the basement to set up a multipurpose game room. This could include a pool table, ping pong table, air hockey, or setting up an old-school arcade with pinball and video game machines. Set aside a corner with a table and lots of comfy chairs for board games for family game night or playing cards with the neighbors.
Home Theater / Media Center
Who needs to go to a crowded, dirty movie theater and pay $25 for popcorn and a drink, when you could set up the perfect movie experience downstairs in your own basement? To create the ideal media room, you can start by thinking of your favorite theater and work from there. Comfortable seating and an enormous screen are obvious features. You may also look into setting up lighting on a dimmer, adding a surround sound speaker system, or installing a fridge or kitchenette to serve as your own personal snack bar. However, while many home theaters are built as enclosed dark spaces to optimize the “theater experience”, you may consider opening it to other areas of the basement so the “big screen” can be enjoyed while playing games, working out, fixing snacks, or hanging out at the bar.
Music Room
When your garage band has outgrown the garage (or the living room), why not set up a practice space in the basement? The underground space can be the perfect place for musicians or aspiring musicians to practice their instruments. Some soundproofing and a few finishing touches can let you use the basement as a recording studio or a place to rock out to your favorites without disturbing the neighbors and the rest of the household.
