When a sweet reader, Deepthi, wrote in for help with ideas for their basement, we were more than happy to put our heads together for a multi functioning space for guests.
They want this spacious basement to be a warm, go-to destination for the winters, where they entertain friends and family. They’re also looking for a few solutions for a high functioning place. They requested a nice area to watch movies, along with a place for a ping pong table, and wet bar/eating area for great entertaining.
This spacious basement has so much potential, and they’re on the right track with ideas for memories.
A literal blank slate, it just needs a little character, and defined areas for the family and their friends to enjoy.
A space to entertain is oh so wise, so we were excited to show some basement makeover inspiration – In a super high functioning space like this one, the beauty is that you can gradually add to it over time, and work with it in stages.
If you’ve been reading for a while, you may know we really think the best spaces are a little bit of everything: handmade, store bought, reclaimed and vintage finds thrown in for that one of a kind look. Also, these are definitely just ideas, but we hope they’re truly something that helps get them started in the right direction for a springboard with the space.
So without further ado, starting with the inspiration board:
And here’s a rough layout of where everything would go…
1. The wallpaper:
We thought the best way to warm up this space, is with texture, and then shots of fun color. They love gold, and so do we. We love the first half of their space {you’ll see this illustrated in the other quick mockups we used} in this awesome gold wallpaper from Hygge and West. It brings in a great texture and warms it up with interesting pattern. They mentioned that they hail from India, and we love just a little hint of that, with a bold impact in a fun way. This room will be so cozy with a great pattern on the walls.
We realize some people are wallpaper-shy, but when you can make it work in fun spaces like this, the payoff can be big.
The planks:
They requested a way to address that ‘problem area’ with the column in the middle. Since it can’t come down, the best way to do this, is to make it a deliberate part of the space in two ways: The first part is wrapping that column in some lightly stained planks, like the mockup shows, and then take it to the back part of the space on the walls.
Her husband had requested a natural element, like planks so we’re scoring in the masculine element department. There are a gazillion ideas out there on pinterest for planked walls, and I think the key is finding the best fit for your space. Something in these shade though would keep it light as a neutral backdrop, without becoming too overwhelming {source for planks here}
The second way to make the column more deliberate, will be with the bar area as seen in the quick illustration – more on that below.
2. The curtains:
We love the idea of dividing it up with some sheer curtains – these fun panels have a great shot of color for a festive feel, but any would do. It’s a great way to keep it open, while also defining it a little more, so that the entire room looks more intentional and cozy.
The art:
3. We love something similar to this art for something sweet downstairs, and we think because the walls say so much already, if they decide to go with wallpaper and planks and the wetbar, it may be best to keep the art to a simplistic minimum. There are tons of options out there – especially diy ideas. But a great play of type on those walls never gets old.
The frames:
4. Deepthi also requested something for the stairwell. A simple accent wall would be really pretty, and make a personal statement for their family. A great gathering of uniform squares like these keep the emphasis on the photography. Original photo from here – totally doable.
The furniture:
Sofas:
6. They requested a microfiber sectional, and there was a mention of leather. So, we rounded up a few good options for them to consider. This will probably be their main investment piece for the space, but we always believe a good sofa is worth, it, even if they skimp on other areas in the budget department. Here’s a few options {a few of these come in more than one fabric option}:
Pillows:
We adore these pillows in funky prints- we’re ready to scoop up a few just for us. Another nod to their beautiful stomping grounds – though they probably have their own gorgeous fabrics to mix in. We combined it with this simple stripe pillow.
Since the walls are so neutral, great color can be brought in with rugs, fabrics and pillows.
End table + Lamp:
Just something along these lines to offer a little storage for movies and other things. Anything of the trunk or basket variety will do, and we think they’ll be glad to have more functioning pieces later.
7. Chair: This great chair in Emerald, is another sweet touch for adding depth to the space with color.
5. Large striped rug: We love this striped rug to tie it all together.
8. Table and chairs:
The idea of having a great separate place for people to sit with their food and drinks, especially if there are kids involved – while still being a part of the action. We thought this round table keeps the space open, and when paired with colorful chairs, ups the fun, laid back anté.
9. The Bar area:
We love your idea of a bar for guests. We think it’s just perfect. A simple set up of cabinets and countertops, and some great options are there for an easy install. We love the idea of a chalkboard backsplash {art inspiration found here}
A full fledged, functioning fridge to keep things cool downstairs kind of rocks our faces off. This may be something they add later, but smeg are great for those compact spaces. (We have a big chill, and absolutely love it- we have an obsession for things that are functional and awesomely pretty all at the same time ;}) They could also go for the easy small fill -in version in the meantime from somewhere, but these are worth the wait.
5. Adding a runner is another opportunity to add fun color.
9. We loved the idea of having an actual bar area to sit, that makes that column intentional in the second way, by giving it a real function.
10. Ping pong table:
Her husband mentioned a ping pong table. Of course we have always loved this classic take on the ping pong table, and it would be an easy basic build with some paint and a net. Just a fun, custom look that can also double as another table for parties if needed… and it doesn’t scream ping pong table. It just adds to the awesome vibe of the space. ;}
They also mentioned a big TV installed in the space. Framing it out in a fun color {maybe something that matches that chair} on the wall, would be a great way to give it a customized, clean look. We would use some simple crates or baskets for storage underneath. From flea market finds to fun little options you can find at the local hobby store, the possibilities are endless, but you can disguise all those boxes and movies easily by keeping them corralled.
** Please note: out of respect for our clients, we no longer share all of our sources here. Thank you for your understanding!**
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We hope this helps get them started as a great little spring board for ideas! We love their space, and can’t wait to see what they do with it! ;}
Have you guys made over your basements for entertaining? Any tips you love for great spaces? Have an inspired day!
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Jennifer says
Wow- wish this were my basement! Your ideas are kind of awesome, to say the least. I’m swooning over here!
Anna says
This is just perfect!