I’m in the process of helping my friends redesign their basement. This is such a fun project because it’s pretty much a blank slate AND they are the best couple to work with. She’s so easy-going and loves everything I’m proposing, and he’s super handy and can make everything I’m proposing! win-win!
Here’s what they’re looking to do:
Create a space that their growing kids can hang out in, with an older look and style. It will have a rustic and industrial feel with a lot of personal touches. There will be no major renovations, just some nice DIY projects, design ideas and better space utilization.
And here’s the inspiration board for this basement redesign:
An inspiration board is so helpful and I recommend creating your own whenever you’re redesigning any space in your home. Whether you’re doing the work yourself, or having someone else do it, it’s a good way to compile all your thoughts and ideas on how you want the space to look and function. It doesn’t have to be a professional, computer-generated design. You can grab images online, cut them out of magazines, or take photos yourself of what inspires you. You may change your mind on some ideas or run into budget restrictions, but the inspiration board should be just that – something you inspire to create. And I’ve often found that when I put all my ideas on one page, it helps me to make better decisions about the space.
And here’s a list of some fun DIY projects we plan on doing:
And by we, I mean my really handy friend. But I might help out too!
Paint the doors black. Black interior doors are such an easy way to elevate the look of those builder-grade doors. Checkout my post on painting our interior doors black.
Install a wood plank wall. My handy friend opted of the real deal versus my wallpaper option on a smaller accent wall. He’s distressing and aging the wood too. It’s going to look awesome!
Hang a gallery wall. A great way to fill a large wall and add some personality to the space. We’ve got photos, fun quotes, awesome kids’ artwork, funky initials, and other fun art.
Storage ideas. They have some existing storage that we’ll keep and refurbish and we’ll also add some new storage under the TV too – a DIY rolling crate piece might be a great option.
Snack area. A must for any kids space!
Map wall. If there’s a way we can bring them into this space I think it will be fun and educational! See my post on my gallery map wall.
Build a counter. This will go behind the couch with added seating. Enter handy friend.
Reading Nook. Adapt a small corner area to include seating, shelving, light fixture, possibly a chalkboard wall and a book quote mural.
And of course, all the finishing decorative elements such as area rugs, pillows, and poufs.
Stay tuned for all the progress to this space and some great DIY ideas and projects.
I'd love to hear your comments!