The basement is often the most unused space in a house and is used as a repository for forgotten trinkets and old furnishings. Many homeowners in Regina are unsure how to turn their basement into livable space that is both functional and practical. Unsurprisingly, when it comes to home transformations, the basement is typically at the end of the priority list.
But here’s the thing: according to real estate agents, basement renovations can add a lot of value to your property.
Are you ready for a quick basement transformation? Keep reading to learn how you can turn your basement into a functional and livable space.
Things to Do Before Your Basement Renovation Project
Planning is very important if you want to successfully carry out your home renovation project.
Without proper planning, many homeowners come across unforeseen expenses and issues that can complicate the process.
So, before you begin, here are some things to keep in mind.
Be Realistic About the Timeline
You never know how long your basement transformation project is going to take. It’s best to be realistic about the timeline to avoid unnecessary frustrations. Leave time for any extreme weather changes, holidays, or unplanned issues. Make sure to communicate about any changes in your project timeline to your household.
Also, discuss the plan with your contractor to get more insight. Your contractors might find unexpected mishaps that might require extra money and some additional work done.
Interview Multiple Contractors
Before you hire a contractor for your basement renovation, talk to multiple contractors to compare bids. This will help you get a better idea of the rates in your area, and you can avoid the risk of paying too much for these services.
Discuss the Design in Detail
Another thing many homeowners forget is to discuss the design they have in mind in detail. Spend some time in the space that you’re going to be renovating, and make a list of all the ideas that you have in your head.
From deciding on the light fixtures to curating the color palette, you should have all of your ideas ready before you begin the renovation.
Tackle Moisture Issues
Before diving into the design phase, address any moisture problems your basement may have. Waterproofing the walls and floor is essential to prevent dampness and mold growth. Consider installing a dehumidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels, ensuring a comfortable and healthy living environment.
Make a List of All Of Your Belongings
It’s not easy to keep track of all of your belongings and assets when you’re renovating. Tidy up your living space and divide your possessions into piles. Donate anything that you don’t need anymore, and give away any hand-me-downs that could be cluttering the place.
If you have stuff that you need to store away during the renovation, find a storage solution beforehand. You could consider renting a storage container or stuffing away large items in a guest room.
Making a list of all of your belongings in the basement will prevent you from losing any of these items.
Update Your Home Security System
During your basement renovation, contractors might be constantly moving in and out of your house. Delivery men and contractors are often working through hours when you’re not at home or away at work.
Understandably, you might have security concerns and want to invest in additional security elements to keep your home safe and protected.
Here are some steps you can take:
- Get smart locks for all of your doors that can be re-programmed to let in the contractors at scheduled hours
- Invest in an in-home safe to store important documents
- Install a video doorbell so you can easily monitor any deliveries while you’re not at home
Apply For Permits
Don’t forget to apply for permits! We also suggest hiring a professional to check for any existing issues like water damage, carbon monoxide buildup, mold, joist sag, foundational cracking, etc.
Get these issues fixed before since you wouldn’t want these issues hindering your renovation progress.
Surprisingly Stunning Basement Renovation Ideas For Your Regina Home
Let’s take a look at how you can give your dreary-looking basement a brand-new look.
1. Start with Proper Lighting
Maybe you’ve been dreaming about creating a little space where you can set up your gym equipment or want a cozy little home office where you can be productive without distractions.
This is your chance to bring your vision to life and convert your basement into a dream living space, and installing additional lighting into your basement can help!
The key to breathing new life into any dreary-looking space is by adding additional lighting fixtures. Nobody wants to walk into an underground space that feels like a dungeon.
Lighting is a game-changer when it comes to basement renovations. Opt for a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to banish the darkness. Recessed LED lights are efficient and create a bright, even glow. Incorporate floor or table lamps strategically to illuminate specific areas, adding warmth and character to the space. You can also consider selecting lighter paint colors that look and feel bright.
Strategically placed pops of color with decorative lamps and recessed lighting can also help you craft a space that appears visually impactful and inspirational.
2. Choose the Right Flooring
Selecting the right flooring for your basement is crucial for both aesthetics and functionality. Opt for moisture-resistant materials like vinyl, laminate, or engineered wood to withstand potential water issues. Rugs and carpets can add warmth and comfort while defining different areas within the space.
Here are some of the most popular flooring options that you can consider for your basement.
Porcelain Tile
Porcelain or ceramic tiles are made from a mixture of water, clay, and sand. These are commonly used in commercial facilities and are an excellent choice for basements. These tiles are inexpensive and come in a wide variety of colors, styles, and sizes.
They are water-resistant and maintain their color for a very long time. The only problem with porcelain tiles is that the installation is quite laborious and can be expensive if installed in large areas.
Sheet Vinyl
Sheet vinyl is another popular basement flooring option in Regina. This flooring option comes in large sheets that are available in a wide assortment of styles and colors.
Sheet vinyl can be directly pasted on concrete with an adhesive.
A qualified contractor will ensure there aren’t any cracks in the concrete and that the surface is properly leveled for professional installation.
Sheet vinyl is also waterproof, easy to install, and inexpensive.
Luxury Vinyl Plank
Luxury vinyl plank or LVP flooring is a type of flooring that has been printed to look like stone or hardwood floors.
These planks are sold in strips and are typically applied using an adhesive. Luxury vinyl plank floors require minimal maintenance and are waterproof. However, they are non-biodegradable and can be laborious to install.
Concrete
Concrete is eco-friendly, easy to install, and very affordable. This flooring is made up of water, cement, and fine aggregates.
Engineered Wood
This flooring is made up of a thin layer of wood covering a plywood core. Engineered wood can give any living space a stunning appearance and is an incredible choice for better home resale value.
Laminate Flooring
This is a type of composite flooring that consists of multiple layers.
Laminate flooring is inexpensive, easy to clean, and also super easy to install.
3. Add a Splash of Color
Incorporate vibrant colors into your basement design to add some personality to the space. Light, neutral tones can make the space feel airy and open, while pops of color in furniture, decor, and accent walls can add character and interest. Consider using a cohesive color palette to create a harmonious atmosphere.
4. Invest in Smart Storage Solutions
Basements often become a dumping ground for unused items. Combat clutter by investing in smart storage solutions. Built-in shelves, cabinets, and multifunctional furniture can help keep your basement organized and functional without sacrificing style.
5. Introduce Greenery
Bring life to your basement by incorporating scene-stealing indoor plants. Choose low-maintenance varieties that thrive in low-light conditions. Not only do plants add a touch of nature to the space, but they also improve air quality and contribute to a healthier indoor environment.
Here are some houseplants you can consider adding to your basement:
- Zamioculcuszamiiofolia or the ZZ plant: This plant is very easy to care for.
- Money tree: The money tree is perfect for low-light conditions and is believed to bring good luck.
- Golden pothos: This plant has heart-shaped foliage that is splashed with stripes of white and gold.
- Peace lily: Peace lilies have large glossy leaves that are often accompanied by spoon-shaped flowers. The peace lily can tolerate low light conditions but thrives in brighter light, creating more flowers.
- Dieffenbachia: Known for its striking variegated leaves, Dieffenbachia thrives in low to moderate light conditions, making it an ideal choice for a basement setting. Its broad, lush leaves add a touch of tropical elegance to the space.
- The Snake Plant: With its upright sword-shaped leaves, snake plants are incredibly resilient and can adapt to low light levels, making them superb basement companions. Its architectural form and tolerance for neglect make it a perfect, low-maintenance addition to your indoor decor.
- The Parlor Palm: Characterized by its delicate fronds, this plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels, making it well-suited for a basement with limited natural light. Its graceful appearance brings a touch of greenery to any space.
- The Schefflera or Umbrella Tree: This plant features compound leaves that radiate from a central point, thriving in medium to bright indirect light. Its vibrant green foliage can add a lively and refreshing atmosphere to your basement decor.
- Boston Ferns: This fern prefers bright, indirect light and high humidity, making them a charming addition to a well-lit basement with proper humidity levels. Their cascading foliage softens the space and adds a touch of woodland allure.
6. Create a Cozy Nook
There is nothing quite like curling up in a snug little corner with a book or taking an undisturbed snooze. This is why you need to create a cozy nook in your home for some much-needed TLC.
Design a cozy nook or reading corner using plush seating, soft textiles, and warm lighting. This inviting space can serve as a retreat for relaxation, reading, or enjoying a cup of coffee. You can personalize the area with cushions, throws, and artwork to make it uniquely yours.
Invest in strikingly bold brass fixtures, cheerful wooden accents, and sectional couches that blend with the scheme of the room.
Accessorize with rugs, graphic motifs, chinoiserie wallpaper, floor lamps, and intricate tapestries to add more character to your living space.
If bold prints and colors feel too overwhelming for your cozy corner, you can try going all minimalist and get a mineral-based plaster for the walls for a strikingly stunning white finish.
7. Incorporate Technology
Make your basement a tech-savvy haven by integrating the latest smart home technology. From sound systems and lighting controls to home theaters and gaming setups, incorporating technology can elevate your basement into a versatile and modern living space.
Here are some popular tech trends that you need to check out for your home this year.
- Fully integrated smart homes:With pure integration, different areas of your home can be fitted with Google Home speakers that can be used to control different tasks around the house, like turning off the lights.
- At-Home Exercises: You can install tech-based home exercise devices that can be connected to your smartwatch and used to work out.
- Home Office:Everyone needs a home office. Smart home innovations are excellent for a home office since they can be used to increase your workflow productivity, and you can have your own little workspace where you can concentrate on work-related tasks.
Now that you know all about basement renovations, it’s time to hire professional contractors to remodel your gloomy basement and create it into a swoon-worthy living space.
At Oakridge Remodeling, our team of highly qualified contractors has over a decade of experience working in the industry. We provide the most dependable and comprehensive basement finishing, home renovation, kitchen renovation, bathroom remodeling, and plumbing services!
Don’t just take our word for it. Craft the living space of your dreams with our home renovation contractors in Regina today.
Contact us here for more details on how we can help you with your basement finishing in Regina project.
