4 Things to Love About This Finished Basement
A basement that works hard, and looks good doing it.
This basement project kicked off just as the pandemic hit and the world was shutting down. At the time, no one knew just how *much* we'd soon be pushing our homes to the max - desperate to find space to do all the things.
These homeowners, like many, were thinking of ways to maximize square footage they already had. Now was the time for them to finish their semi-finished basement. Having had them as clients before, we knew their vision for modern, yet functional spaces and we were excited with the potential to turn this room into something that works for them. With drywall, electrical and carpet in place from the original build, the shell of the room was there. We got to work adding the custom elements that would bring it to life.
The Ask: Create 3-in-1 multi-purpose entertainment room with custom cabinets, millwork and high quality finishes. The end result turned out great - all things pandemic considered!
The banquette area features a built-in bench seat and white oak wood paneling installed by Andy. Styled by Lea @ Creekwoodhill and shot by Jennifer @ Sage E Imagery.
The built in bar area features floor to ceiling cabinets and floating shelves. Providing ample room for all things hosting - with a bar sink and hidden mini fridge to boot! Styled by Lea @ Creekwoodhill and shot by Jennifer @ Sage E Imagery.
Netflix & chill? Show night has a new place to hang.
A part of the build process that is so rewarding to us, is taking a space that’s not working for a you and giving it a new purpose. Knowing the transformation will benefit the way you live day to day - whatever that may be. More ways to be together, or, maybe you need more space to be apart? Regardless, this once empty room is now an inviting and workable space with lots of options for entertaining. Here are 4 things we love about this finished basement; must haves if you’re considering a project of your own.
Hi-function. Roughly 500 square feet in size with 9ft ceilings, the long and narrow room was big enough for multi-purpose zones like hosting, seating and relaxing. Perfect for the many stages, moods and activities of a growing family; it can transition to accommodate large to small gatherings. Adding cabinetry, millwork and furniture further identified the zones and helped create a flow.
Mixing up millwork. The homeowner went with a natural matte finish on the 5” wood paneling. It added warmth when paired with the dark cabinets; which used a custom black dye. The hand mixed dye from the cabinet maker turned out so good. It’s hard to capture in photos but the wood grain shows through so beautifully and the wood texture is subtle but noticeable to the touch. Definitely a finish we look forward experimenting with on future projects.
Scalable selections. From layout to selections, there are many elements of this room that could be scaled to fit the home and budget you’re working with. Millwork, stone, plumbing, electrical add up and modifying selections and scope is a natural step in the process. Expect it! Tip: Knowing where you’re willing to flex before you reach out to a contractor or tradesperson will save you time in the upfront. Work with your contractor to see if it makes sense to bid your project two ways so you have options for bringing down the cost if needed.
Sensible sourcing. While we (generally) have nothing to do with sourcing furniture and objects, we do appreciate how well this room mixes custom with locally sourced, "had already" and new pieces. Supply chain lemonade as we coined it; this homeowner had a particular knack for mixing all of the above - bringing a certain cool, comfort to this finished basement.
Want to know more about what goes on behind the build? We’re shedding light on the ways we collaborated with local tradespeople to bring this project to life. We want to share more about the build process with the hopes it will inform your readiness to take on a project of your own.
Finished Basement - Adding Custom Cabinets, Millwork & Finishes: $65,000-$75,000
The approximate cost to finish basement of this size and scope, including general contracting fee, permits, labor and materials:
Plumbers: Plumbing rough in and hook up for bar sink and faucet
Electricians: Wall mounted sconces, hook up for mini fridge and under shelf lighting
Cabinet Maker: Design, fabrication and installation: media cabinets, wall cabinets and shelves, banquette
Stone: Soapstone countertop material, fabrication and installation
Trim Carpenter: Millwork and installation for crown, baseboard, 5” wood paneling on walls and floating shelves
Painter: Repaint ceilings and walls; spray finish on wood paneling
Each project cost is dependent on the scope and space, labor and material needs and hard hosts for those goods and services. Not included in the cost: Plumbing fixtures, mini fridge, cabinet hardware, custom bench cushion were provided by Homeowner. Cost for framing, electrical, hvac, painting, fireplace, carpet, trim were absorbed as part of the original build costs and unavailable.