“Good communication with our customers is key to the success of the remodel, which begins with meticulous planning before the project begins,” he says.
Haines stresses the importance of knowing up front how you want the space to perform. As an entertainment area? A man cave? A home office? “Decide on a theme and stick with it,” he advises.
Next, meet with a reputable design-build company. “They will listen to your ideas, guide you through the phases of the project, and help you stay within budget,” says Gur.
Before you begin the work itself, cautions Haines, “Address [the] dampness in the basement, being sure that the sump pump is in good working condition.”
Since basements are at least partially underground, conserving and “borrowing” light is also essential. Pillars and retro glass walls are effective ways to add architectural interest, as well as to capture light and create a spacious look.
Framing the steps leading down to the basement—by removing the upper part of the walls to make a “knee wall” and adding railings—is another way Haines opens up the area. “Whether we’re working on a basement for a million-dollar or a $200,000 home, we employ the same low-cost tricks to give it a custom look,” he says.
“Using every square inch of space is important—something we do with built-in shelves or cabinets and inserting niches in walls.”
Another clever technique is to build a frame around utility windows high on the basement wall, filling in the space beneath with a mirror or a nature-themed mural.
But no matter how you choose to breathe new life into your old basement, start with a good contractor, a clear set of expectations, and a sensible plan.
Contact Haines Remodeling at 443-617-0683 or hayriye@hainesremodeling.com.
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