Feb 24, 2016

Basement renovation: Vibrant and versatile multi-purpose space

Problem: A dark, dingy basement

After six years with an unfinished basement devoid of brightness and purpose, a Toronto couple is ready for a drastic transformation.

Solution: A serious makeover to brighten the space

The 600-square-foot basement took on a major renovation packed with smart storage solutions.

After: A vibrant and versatile media room

This bright and colourful basement is now a vibrant and versatile space. The new media room is the perfect space to host friends and family.

Media room

The family spends most of their downtime in the basement’s colourful media zone. “We were in desperate need of a family room,” says Shannon, pointing out that their upstairs living area is especially tiny. “I love that everyone can finally be together in our small house.”

DIY storage

To hide unsightly electronics, Shannon scored a beautiful Mid-Century Modern sideboard from a local vintage shop. she purchased the piece for its doors, which cleverly slide open to reveal devices like a cable box and game console. The homeowners also dug the floor down two feet to increase the ceiling height and make the space brighter and airier. “It doesn’t feel like a basement anymore,” says Shannon. “Almost everyone who comes down here says the same thing.”

Kitchenette & workspace

A mini-fridge helps delineate the kitchenette and workspace from the laundry area.

Smart storage

One cabinet drawer is reserved for bar essentials while the remainder conceal art and school supplies, which the couple’s six-year-old son, Max, often uses while stationed at the peninsula – he even painted the colourful piece on display beside the computer. It’s a talent Max likely inherited from his mother, who also paints here and created much of the artwork seen throughout the basement.

Laundry area

Shannon initially envisioned a closed-off laundry room, but after considering a few different layouts, she decided it wasn’t the best use of space. Instead, she installed a stacked washer and dryer in the basement’s kitchenette. “It opened up the room, resulting in the biggest living area possible,” says Shannon. The design choice also allowed for additional cabinetry to minimize clutter. “I love having the counter space to fold clothes,” she says.

Storage space

Aside from a few hooks and one small cupboard, the semi-detached home lacks front hall storage. Now, thanks to the complete basement overhaul, the family conceals shoes and other off-season items in two large cabinets. “It’s important to edit what you have,” says Shannon. “I don’t keep extra stuff lying around because we just don’t have the space for it.”

Bathroom

Before the basement reno, there was only one bathroom in the house. “Having a second bathroom is life changing,” says Shannon. While the chartreuse floral shower curtain and glossy marble tiles lend texture and elegance, the marble-topped vanity delivers beauty as well as function.

Functional necessities

“In the end, I chose a vanity that offers maximum storage space,” she says, highlighting the fact that each of the wide drawers actually opens. They’re perfect for stowing everything from toilet paper to hairbrushes and corralling smaller items like cotton swabs in clear plastic containers.

Meet the owner

Homeowner Shannon Cummins spends time in her basement’s workspace, which is positioned next to the media room – an ideal place for hosting friends and family.

Weekly inspiration

Problem: A dark, dingy basement

Solution: A serious makeover to brighten the space

After: A vibrant and versatile media room

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Basement renovation: Vibrant and versatile multi-purpose space