10 Creative Uses for the Basement

The home basement offers so many options for types of living spaces.  If you are fortunate enough to have a basement in your home, give it a purpose.  Transform this space into an area that best serves your needs and lifestyle.  Turn this dark, lonely spot into an entertainment room, a home theater, or anything you may desire.  Here are ten creative uses for the basement to give you inspiration.

1.  Bar

Spark up the libations and entertain friends and family with a basement bar.  Start with a cabinet, cubbies or other storage for bottles, a place for glassware and a sink.  Add on a beautiful wood bar with a hard surface countertop and surround this with stylish bar stools.  A nice statement pendant light over the bar area with task lighting gives you the illumination and ambiance you need.  Invite friends and family or just enjoy an evening at the bar…and you don’t have far to go.

2.  Wine Room

For the sommelier or wine enthusiast, a well-stocked wine room is suited for the basement.  Install a network of shelving for bottle storage and provide a space for relaxing while enjoying a glass.  Host wine tasting parties and impress your guests.

3.  Library

Who doesn’t like a calm and quiet place to read a book?  The basement is a great spot for a library.  Expand your collection of books or house your existing inventory on stylish shelves.  Furnish the library with comfortable seating and sufficient lighting.  Hidden away from the daily hustle and bustle of life, a basement library lets you escape.

4.  Home Theater

A home theater is on many wish lists for homeowners.  The basement provides the perfect setting for this entertainment space.  Go all out with leather theater seating and a wide screen television or simply arrange comfortable seating, such as a sectional sofa, around the television.

5.  Music Room

What better place for a music room than the basement, where sound can be somewhat blocked or controlled?  Carve out space for practice or set up a stage area for performances.  If you enjoy entertaining, you may even consider installing a dance floor.  A home music studio in the basement is perfect for the professional musician.  You may want to install sound-proofing or extra insulation to keep peace in the household.

6.  Home Office

If you have a home business or just want a place to organize the home and personal business, the basement can be converted into an office.  Create a cozy nook for a desk and work station and furnish the space with comfortable chairs or a sofa for breaks or visiting clients.  For the home business, you may consider installing a separate entrance as well.

7.  Bedroom

If you have a teenager at home who is craving their own space, a basement bedroom may be the answer.  You can also create a guest bedroom for visitors or simply house the master bedroom in the basement.  The basement gives you the option of expanding your home space for additional family members.

8.  Pool / Game Room

When most people think of the basement room, they call to mind a game room, complete with pool table.  The basement is certainly a great space for this, allowing plenty of room for a pool table.  Rack ’em up and enjoy the games!

9.  Apartment

For extra income, a grown child returning home, or perhaps an in-law suite, the basement apartment is the answer.  Divide the basement into living, kitchen, bath and bedroom areas or transform the basement into a loft-like apartment.

10.  Multi-purpose Space

Many times you require a space for different activities.  The basement can serve multiple functions such as office, family room, game room, craft or even laundry room.  You can incorporate a bedroom and home theater into the space as well.  The basement can become something for everyone, for a variety of activities.

Those fortunate enough to have a basement in their home can enjoy many different transformations for this space.  Whether you want a game room, office or bedroom, the basement is the perfect spot for an expanding household or a home with changing needs.