One of the best things about an unfinished basement is the possibilities it presents. At Excel Builders, we love to look at unused basement space as a blank canvas — it can be whatever you want or need it to be!
Remodeling an unfinished basement also offers many benefits, including:
- Adding more livable space to your home
- Increasing your home’s value
- Saving money by adding amenities like a home gym or theater room
- Updating your home with multi-functional spaces
- Improving the energy efficiency of your home
- Creating more storage and organization options
While a remodeled basement provides plenty of value, the process can be a little intimidating. After all, you want to design the best finished basement for your home. The good news is that remodeling an unfinished basement doesn’t have to be complicated. Keep reading for five helpful tips to help you plan and design your basement remodel.
1. Quality Matters
Just because the basement is one of the last things your guest sees doesn’t mean you should skimp on quality. The same craftsmanship needs to go into your basement remodel as the rest of your home. I’m not just talking about the finished product, either. Things like framing and drywall may seem simple but, if done poorly, can have a drastic impact on the completed project.
2. Layout Is Important
Nailing the layout of your finished basement is one of the most important parts of the project. Do you prefer an open floor plan or to have closed-off areas? A mix of both? The answer likely depends on the size of your basement and how you plan to use it.
If you plan to use the space for multiple purposes, such as a home office or gym, then closed-off areas may be best. However, if you prefer to use the room as a whole, an open floor plan might be the better option. In that case, you would want to consider how you’d like to see the space arranged and how you will distinguish between key areas. Different flooring is a great way to break up different spaces. For example, the TV area may have carpet, while the adjacent bar area has tile flooring.
3. Get Down to the Details
When remodeling an unfinished basement, there are a few details that will make all the difference in regards to comfort: electrical, plumbing, insulation, and heating and cooling. Although you can’t technically see these details in the end, that doesn’t mean you should cut corners.
- Electrical: Be thoughtful about where you place light fixtures and outlets. It’s also helpful to consider how certain areas will be used and the type of lighting that will complement it.
- Plumbing: If you plan to add a wet bar, kitchenette, or bathroom, plumbing will likely be needed.
- HVAC & Insulation: Heating is one of the most essential mechanicals, especially in the basement where it tends to be colder than the rest of the home. A quality HVAC system and insulation will help keep your basement warmer during chilly Midwest winters.
4. Invest in Custom Cabinetry & Millwork
Excel Builders has completed many basement remodeling projects over the years. More often than not, these projects include custom cabinetry and millwork. Wet bars, media centers, kitchenettes, vanities, shelves — you name it, we’ve built and installed it. Choosing custom cabinetry and millwork over prefabricated options creates a truly built-in look that perfectly fits the space. It also gives you more options in terms of design, finishes, and storage.
5. Hire a Designer
You may think that since it’s only the basement, it doesn’t need to be perfect. That’s true to an extent, but it’s important to remember that your basement isn’t a separate space; it’s an extension of the rest of your home. Creating a space that is cohesive, functional, and comfortable is a must.
So, what’s the secret to a well-designed finished basement that checks all your boxes now and in the future? Working with an experienced designer — or better yet, hiring a design-build company like Excel Builders. When you do that, you get access to a skilled designer and contractor who work hand-in-hand to design and execute your basement remodel.
Premier Basement Finishing Services in Chanhassen, MN & Nearby
Excel Builders has been helping clients create a home they love for over 20 years. With an in-house cabinet shop and an experienced, reliable design-build team, you can count on us to complete a basement remodel that suits your family for years to come.
When you’re ready to remodel your unfinished basement, give the Excel Builders team a call at (612) 306-4064 or email trent@excelbuildersmn.com. We proudly serve Minnesota homeowners throughout the Twin Cities Metro, including Minneapolis, Chaska, Excelsior, Eden Prairie, Plymouth, Minnetonka, and nearby.