Can too much open space be a bad thing? For this basement, the answer was “yes.” The wide- open and undefined space was great for a playroom when the kids were younger, but now that they are older a playroom is no longer needed. The new agenda: a refined, multi-purpose space to be enjoyed by teens, tweens, and adults alike to relax and watch a movie, have a snack, or just hang out.
“First up, creating multiple spaces, while maintaining the open feel of the existing basement was important,” said Normandy Designer working on the project, Ashley Noethe. “A custom entertainment center along the existing TV wall created the main lounging area. There is plenty of floor space for furniture, as well as storage for board games and gaming consoles. Plush carpeting with thick padding keeps the space cozy all year round.”
As a way to incorporate more seating while still enjoying a view of the TV, a bar-height wall separates the dry bar from the lounge area. On the bar side there is an overhang with a durable marble-look quartz countertop, making it a great place to enjoy a beverage or a snack. Spills happen, so the bar flooring is water proof luxury vinyl planks with a textured wood look.
Ceiling heights are maximized by removing the drop ceiling. Soffits are framed around the existing structural beams and mechanicals where necessary, and the new drywall ceiling is raised an entire foot in the non-soffited areas. To camouflage some of the soffits and create a focal point at the bottom of the stairwell, a tray ceiling detail was created with the same distressed wood accent as in the bar area. This area will be the home of a future pool, ping-pong, or poker table, but in the meantime remains an open play space for dance performances and cartwheels.
Assigning designated functions to each area of this large basement with coordinating materials and finishes creates a cohesive and open design,” said Ashley. “The simple, clean lines and neutral color palette provides a classic aesthetic able to be enjoyed by family members of all ages.”
The judges of the NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) Greater Chicagoland happened to agree that this basement is a winner, bestowing a Remodeling Excellence Award on this basement remodel.
Set up a time to meet with award-winning designer Ashley Noethe to begin re-imagining your basement. Or, register to attend an upcoming workshop to learn more. You can also follow Normandy Remodeling on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or check out the Normandy photo gallery for more design ideas and inspiration.
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