Basement: Life under your House

Basements could bring you an income or an extra headache. Properly done space can be used for an extra living space for in-laws. You can rent it out for small parties or master-classes (don’t forget about special insurance). Small basements are perfect for playrooms or as a hobby place. Man cave is a common use for an under house living. However, a lady's cave is always an option.

If you have an unfinished basement you can transform it into something special. First of all you need to make a new floor plan that covers all your needs. Then you have to get all necessary permits to follow all your city’s codes. Once you start the renovation your contractor will help you with proper waterproofing, insulation, drywall sheet types.

Think in advance about ways to make your basement warmer: extra insulation, heating floors. Check for designers ideas to bring extra light to the place. It’s better to discuss with an electrician in advance before closing walls.Depending on the purpose of your new basement choose material for interior design. Renting units need more budget materials but with a good level of durability. Think about colors. Neutral palette is better in a space with a limit of natural light.

Powder room is a must have but you could add a full bathroom even if you're not planning to make a separate apartment. In case if your main bathroom has any issues and can’t be used you always have a second option.

Kitchenettes are a good thing to have. It could be useful if you have master-classes or tea-parties in your basement. Even men would appreciate that in their cave. That saves your main kitchen from extra traffic and cleaning. Also you’ll need to think about a space for a furnace and a laundry. Nice storage room is also a bonus to keep your living space upstairs clear.

All those details will definitely help you to organize your extra living space under your house and you’ll get a huge bonus with a finished basement whenever you want it to be.