The design of a basement should be guided by the uses it will serve.
When designing a basement to become a livable space, the first step is to plan for function. The way you intend to use this extra space can provide a guide for every other aspect of design. The more precise and detailed a plan you can make during the preparation stage, the more the final result will resemble your dreams. After you've come up with a plan, the next steps include making sure your plans will meet building code regulations and addressing any current moisture problems.
Gather Ideas
Start collecting ideas from all available sources on the best way to achieve the design you want. Look through magazines, read books, surf the Internet and visit homebuilding stores.
Shopping for Materials
Shopping for materials to be used in constructing your design plans cannot begin early enough. Pricing ahead of time will provide you with a more realistic estimate of the final cost. The initial shopping period should remain free from restrictions and instead motivate you to consider all kinds of building materials, different styles and even items priced high enough to qualify for a wish list. Note that at this stage, you're shopping as part of your research -- not buying.
Ceiling Options
Basement ceilings can often be unfinished enough to expose wires, pipes and joists. The options for a basement ceiling have never been greater. You may prefer a basic drywall ceiling that hides building materials from view. A living room or bedroom could benefit from the decorative addition of acrylic sheets attached to joists to provide a mirrored effect. Suspended ceilings provide a flat surface with easy access to wiring and pipes. Acoustical ceiling tiles will significantly enhance the sound quality inside a basement being remodeled into a home theater.
Wall Options
Bare basement walls can be adorned with paint or wallpaper or a combination of both. A more rustic look can be adopted by adding brick or stone veneer. If your design for the basement involves creating partition walls to provide some privacy between sections, glass blocks can be used to create straight lines or a curved wall. Today's paneling has come a long way from its knotty pine plank origins and can add warmth and sophistication -- with a variety of colors of wood available in veneered panels or installed via tongue and groove.
Flooring Options
Flooring is a basement design consideration highly dictated by intended purpose. Carpeting absorbs sound and is a better choice for a home theater than hard surfaces such as tile or hardwood. If your intended use of the basement requires being on your feet for extended periods of time, consider rubber flooring or cork. Laminate flooring material can be an affordable alternative to wood planks and parquet.
Storage
Storage should be incorporated into any design regardless of the true purpose of the room. An effective strategy is to set aside between 10 and 15 percent of the square footage for use as storage. Many basements provide storage space that is already conveniently out of the way beneath the stairs, so don't forget to take advantage of this option.
