If you have recently undergone a basement development journey and revitalized your unfinished space, you may be wondering how to make the most of your space. Not all basements are built equally, and some may err on the smaller side.
If you weren’t already aware, the RMS size of a property only includes its above grade levels. The reason for this is to establish consistency in how real estate professionals and their sellers describe and measure their property. In Alberta, at least, this provides a consistent means throughout.
So, if you have a custom basement on the smaller side, how do you make the most of it? Being a new homeowner and trying to make the most of your investment can be an overwhelming process, and trying to add as much value into your basement space can be difficult. Luckily, Basement Builders’ team is here to let you in on some tidbits of how to utilize a smaller space in a customized basement.
The Uses, Challenges, and Opportunities of Small, Customized Basements
Small, customized basements offer a world of possibilities. See, homes are expensive, and even if you’ve entered into the real estate world for the first time by purchasing a smaller home, that doesn’t mean you can’t make the most of it.
Smaller basements’ uses are only limited by one's imagination. From a cozy entertainment area for family movie nights to a secluded home office or a functional guest suite, these compact spaces can be adapted to fulfill a myriad of purposes. They provide an opportunity to expand the livable area of a home without the need for costly renovations or additions. Moreover, small basements are an ideal canvas for personalization, allowing homeowners to infuse their unique style and interests into the design. After all, a customized basement can look like anything. Just consider the various styles of basements around the world and how different countries utilize their below-ground space to give their home a unique flair. There’s no end to the potential for customization!
However, working with limited space poses its own set of challenges. Designing a small basement requires meticulous planning and a keen eye for space optimization. The primary obstacle is to ensure that the space does not feel cramped or cluttered. Storage becomes a critical concern, and innovative solutions like vertical storage, built-in cabinets, and multi-functional furniture are essential to keep belongings organized and accessible. Maximizing natural light and choosing appropriate color schemes are vital to create an illusion of spaciousness.
Despite all these challenges, the opportunities that are offered by small, customized basements are significant. With clever design and the smart integration of technology (with a focus on flexibility), these spaces may be significantly transformed into a valuable extension of your home.
How Do You Build a Customized Basement?
How do you build a customized basement, anyway? Well, the better question here is: how do you start the process of building a customized basement? The answer is that you hire a professional.
The dangers of not working with a basement professional are too many to name. While you technically could reasonably DIY your own basement development project, hiring a professional like Basement Builders ensures that the job is done the way you want it to be and that you avoid common pitfalls that might otherwise be suffered by people in your position who decided they wanted to go the DIY route. We’re here to tell you (as biased as it may sound) that some jobs are better left to the professionals. After all, given how much your house is worth, wouldn’t you want to ensure that the job is done as accurately as it ought to be and with as much dedication to quality as you would want it to be? We at Basement Builders never leave a job until the customer is 100% satisfied.
TLDR: Build a custom basement by hiring a professional, and we’ll do the rest. Your satisfaction is always our highest priority.
Tips for Maximizing Space in Small Basements
Here are our tips on how to maximize your basement space, even if it is a little on the smaller side:
Utilize Clever Storage Solutions
Try to make the most out of vertical storage solutions, such as through the installation of shelves, racks, or hanging storage to free up even more floor space. Explore options for custom cabinets, under-stair storage, and hidden compartments.
Optimize Your Layout
Divide your basement into functional zones: i.e., workspaces, living areas, and storage. Plan for easy movement between areas without having to feel cramped. And, if you’re feeling it, try for an open layout to create the illusion of spaciousness.
Maximize Natural Light
Use methods to increase natural light entry, like enlarging windows or using specific light-coloured window treatments. You may also use lighting options to create a more inviting ambiance. Colours can also make a difference, as light or neutral colours can make a space seem larger.
Use Wall-Mounted Tech
Incorporate the use of wall-mounted TVs and projectors to save on floor space, and integrate smart home systems to optimize storage even further/control utilities in a way that won’t affect the existing store space or wall space.
Use Collapsible/Modular Furniture
Utilize collapsible furniture to free up floor space even more. Room dividers that can easily be repositioned is also a good option.
Incorporate Mirrors
Finally, using mirrored surfaces can create an illusion of space and reflect light more easier. Glass walls or partitions can visually expand an area.
When we work with you here at Basement Builders, we’ll utilize our best knowledge to help create you the customized basement of your dreams—even if you’re working with a smaller space! We believe that no space is too big or too small to make your own. Give us a call or get a quick estimate today.
