Blog Post

Do you have an unfinished basement in your home? Are you using it just to stash the overflow of contents that don’t warrant a place in the main living areas? There are so many better ideas for this wasted space. Between building new homes and remodeling others, Kettler Forlines Homes has experience in turning the lower level from an afterthought to a useful living area. With the basement measuring the footprint of your home, just think about all the room you have down there. Here are some great ways to use your finished basement.

Multigenerational suite

Over the past year, many households have welcomed adult family members. Whether your grown kids moved home or your aging parents came to live with you, finishing your basement could mean creating a spacious suite. Incorporate a bedroom, full bath, walk-in closet, living room, and efficiency kitchen.

Game room

We recently finished the basement for a homeowner who wanted to take advantage of the square footage that was not put to good use. She added a living room with a big screen TV, full-sized skeeball game, popcorn machine, cabinets, efficiency kitchen, and full bathroom. The room was decorated with sports and movie memorabilia—perfect for family gatherings and entertaining friends.

Home office

If your home doesn’t have adequate space for a dedicated home office that offers privacy, head downstairs. Your basement makeover could provide a spacious office with a kitchenette, storage, and a bathroom, maybe even a library. Utilize the space under the stairs for creative storage solutions.

Workout room

Have you been missing those regular workouts since the pandemic began? Convert the basement into a home gym. Depending on your activities, we’ll install mirrored walls and the right type of flooring, with mats to protect the surface from heavy equipment to carpeting for your juice bar. Then add a bathroom with a walk-in shower to clean up after your workout.

Home theater

What better place to watch movies than on the lower level—perfect for homes that don’t have a walkout or daylight basement with natural light streaming in. The basement remodel can include a top-notch sound system, a layout for extra seating, and a snack bar. For streaming movies, you’ll want a strong Wi-Fi signal, which our Smart Home Technology Specialist can handle. And if your lower level has natural light, just add room darkening shades.

Classroom

Do you have students at home who are getting their education virtually? Give them their own classroom downstairs. Set up areas for studying, Zoom classes, arts and crafts, a library, and storage, plus a bathroom and snack bar. With a designated home classroom, you equip your kids for success!

Man cave

Been dreaming of your getaway place at home? Don’t escape to the garage. Create the ultimate man cave on the lower level. Picture some comfy chairs and a sofa where you can watch your big screen TV without interruption. Add a snack bar with a refrigerator, wine chiller, and/or kegerator. Set up a pool table, poker table, arcade games, and whatever else your man cave needs, and a full bath, of course.

Hobby studio

Indulge your passion for creativity. There’s nothing as discouraging to a crafter as having to set up equipment and supplies every time you want to dive into a project, only to pack them up again when you’re done. Convert the basement to a studio where everything is waiting for your next burst of artful brilliance.

Wine cellar

Wine aficionados, your basement is a natural place to store your collection! Install wine racks and shelves, storage for stemware, and a tasting area. You’ll need to consider the ventilation and temperature controls necessary for safely storing your valuable vintages.

Feeling inspired?

A finished basement will increase your home’s resale value. It’s a great investment in your present and future. If you live in the DC Metro area, contact us at Kettler Forlines Homes to discuss remodeling your basement. When you’re ready for a new home, let’s talk about planning the design to make sure your lower level gets the attention it deserves right from the start.