50 Finished Basement Design Ideas You'll Want to Copy

By
Farima Ferguson
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Farima Ferguson
Farima Ferguson began her career at HGTV where she worked with designers to write about home design. Her work has appeared in HGTV, Insider Reviews, Travel Channel, and more.
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Updated on 03/28/23
Fact checked by
Jessica Wrubel
Jessica Wrubel
Fact checked by Jessica Wrubel
Jessica Wrubel has an accomplished background as a writer and copy editor, working for various publications, newspapers and in public libraries assisting with reference, research and special projects. In addition to her journalism experience, she has been educating on health and wellness topics for over 15 years in and outside of the classroom.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
finished modern basement

Photo by Tamara Flanagan / Styling by Beige & Bleu Design Studio

To really make the most of your home, you'll want to give purpose to your unfinished basement. A finished basement has endless potential. From a bedroom to a studio apartment to the coveted game room, finishing your basement not only adds value to your home but also functional square footage for the whole family. Once you've considered the basics of finishing a basement, it's time to decide how you want to use the space. Below, we share our favorite finished basement ideas from layout ideas to how to design it.

  • 01 of 50

    Transform It Into an Apartment

    Finished basement converted to an apartment
    April Force Pardoe Interiors

    Whether you're hoping to make a little extra income or you want a place to make family memories, try turning your finished basement into a studio apartment. You'd probably never guess that this gorgeous studio apartment is actually a basement. It has the character, charm (and natural light!) that most of us only dream of, and makes a perfect in-law suite or rental space.

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  • 02 of 50

    Give Your Game Room a Minimalist Look

    A game room basement with a pool table

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Spacecrafting

    When you think of a game room basement, you may imagine bright colors, bold artwork and an all-around eclectic space. But, if less is more is your motto, you can still create a basement game room you'll want to spend hours in. This basement features a pool table and minimal artwork that brings interest to the room without making it feel overwhelming.

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    Retreat to the Reading Nook

    finished basement reading nook

    @danidazey / Instagram

    This colorful nook is a vibrant and playful spot to read a book or work on your creative hobbies like drawing. The green accent wall and floating shelves bring a cheerful look to the space especially when paired with the bubblegum pink chair. The plush chair has a curved back that's a great place to sit for hours to read. The metallic floor lamp brings a touch of glam and completes the whimsical look of the room.

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  • 04 of 50

    Create an Extra Area for Entertaining

    A basement with a patterned wallpaper accent wall

    Design by Louis Duncan-He / Photo by Eymeric Widling

    Whether you want to add a second area to your home for entertaining or you're creating a lower-level apartment, this kitchen and living area is nicer than most main kitchens and living rooms, and we love how the design plays into the darker space rather than fight against it. The open shelving and mirror make the kitchen feel airy and open while offering ample workspace for all your family meals. 

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  • 05 of 50

    Create an Entertainment Room

    A basement with arcade games

    Michelle Berwick Design

    This expansive basement features white walls and a contrasting black ceiling that create an eclectic space. A couple popular arcade games line one side of the basement while a nearby sitting area is an inviting place to chat with friends with a drink. The space wouldn't be complete without the glass-enclosed wine cellar featuring industrial-style racks. This space has it all for a fun, entertaining night or a relaxing night enjoying a glass of wine with friends.

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  • 06 of 50

    Channel Your Adventurous Side

    finished playroom basement with a rock climbing wall

    Design by Emily Henderson / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp

    Your teen's bedroom is their chance to show their personal style while showcasing their favorite hobbies. If your teen is the adventurous type, let them express that in their room's features and decor. This basement bedroom features a rock climbing wall, durable carpeting and hiking trail maps as artwork. The staircase features a quiet reading nook underneath complete with comfortable pillows and a blanket for much needed downtime to read and do homework.

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  • 07 of 50

    Create a Mudroom

    A basement hallway with a mudroom storage area

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Jill Hamilton

    This basement laundry room serves double duty as a mudroom to help keep the rest of the house clutter free. The hall tree in the corner of the room is a convenient place to hang bags and coats, while the storage cabinets underneath the hooks hold catchall items. A cushioned bench provides a place to take shoes off before entering the adjacent basement kitchen.

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  • 08 of 50

    Enjoy Extra Kitchen Space

    A basement bar with a silver backsplash

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Mackenzie Merrill

    Sometimes one kitchen just isn't enough. This basement kitchenette provides ample cabinet space for all the kitchen items you don't use daily, while the countertop space gives plenty of room to make your favorite cocktail. The stainless steel backsplash and dark cabinetry mimic the style from the rest of the home for a cohesive look.

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  • 09 of 50

    Cook for a Large Gathering

    A basement kitchen with white cabinetry

    Michelle Berwick Design

    When entertaining for a large gathering, a finished basement with a second kitchen come in handy. This fullsize basement kitchen provides an extra area to prepare meals for a large group and has a large mini fridge to hold plenty of drinks. The open shelving and glass cabinet door fronts help keep everything visible so guests can feel at home and help themselves.

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  • 10 of 50

    WFH in Style

    An industrial style home office in a finished basement

    Design by William Hunter Collective / Style by Emily Henderson / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp

    You don't need a completely finished basement to transform it into your home office. The exposed cement block walls and concrete flooring are spruced up with elegant furniture, a rug and a few simple decor items. This space may be minimal, but it encourages focus and is a functional area to get work done.

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  • 11 of 50

    Add a Rustic Look

    A kitchen basement with bar seating

    Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions

    The distressed wood kitchen island is the focal point in this basement kitchen. The industrial-style bar stools provide the perfect place to sit while the host concocts their favorite cocktails.

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  • 12 of 50

    Add Some Contrast

    A basement with a modern white fireplace wall

    Michelle Berwick Design

    As soon as you walk down to this basement, the stunning, white marble wall grabs your attention. The wall features a modern gas fireplace that enhances the sleek and minimalistic design of the rest of the room. The adjacent black-and-white accent wall adds a bold touch to this mostly-white space by creating a visually-appealing contrast. Just beyond this room is another seating area that's perfect for a more quiet evening of reading or listening to music.

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  • 13 of 50

    Create a Mini Oasis

    A basement bathroom with a navy accent wall

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Mackenzie Merrill

    The basement is often a place for overnight guests to stay that give them privacy, and that includes having their own bathroom. The dark navy wall in this basement bathroom adds an elegant look, while the white subway shower tiles and vanity brighten up the space to make it feel more open.

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  • 14 of 50

    Showcase Your Wine Collection

    A basement wine cellar

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Mackenzie Merrill

    If you have an impressive wine collection, showcase it in a temperature-controlled wine cellar. The basement is a smart place to store wine because it typically stays at a more consistent temperature than the rest of the home. A small tabletop provides a place to uncork bottles and collect all the corks.

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  • 15 of 50

    Skip the Gym Membership

    A basement with a home gym

    Michelle Berwick Design

    You don't need a lot of space to create a gym at home. This was once a closet in the basement, but now it is a gym with a couple pieces of equipment, mats and a painted accent wall for a touch of style. The contemporary-style barn door saves space in the basement while still allowing privacy while getting a workout in.

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  • 16 of 50

    Play Up the Drama

    A basement lounge area

    Forbes + Masters

    The rich, black walls and ceiling bring a moody, mysterious look to this basement. One wall features a gallery, filled with framed photos of iconic musicians, that are displayed in a fun, playful pattern. But, the red velvet curtains steal the show with its luxurious color and texture that stand out against the black walls. A leather Chesterfield sofa adds more texture and elegance to the space, creating the ultimate room for a music lover.

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    Provide Comfy Kitchen Seating

    A basement bar with leather stools

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Mackenzie Merrill

    When you walk down in this basement, you immediately notice the beautiful stone floor tiling that brings rustic charm and warmth to the room. The kitchen is equipped with everything you need to entertain, including comfortable leather stools for guests to sit and mingle as the host serves food.

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  • 18 of 50

    Keep Your House Clean

    A basement with a swimming pool locker area

    Michelle Berwick Design

    If you have a backyard pool, you know how messy it can get when you come inside from a long day of swimming. This small alcove in the basement is trasformed into a place to store pool equipment, to dry off and to hang wet towels so the rest of your home stays clean and dry.

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  • 19 of 50

    Serve Your Favorite Libations

    finished basement with yellow accent wall

    Casa Watkins Living

    The basement is oftentimes an extra place in the home to relax and enjoy a cocktail, so it only make sense to have a wet bar in the space. This small basement wall features a small bar area complete with a wine rack, wine glass holder, plenty of cabinet storage and countertop space and a sink to make serving guests easier. The warm cherry wood cabinets are the perfect complement to the tropical themed basement.

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  • 20 of 50

    Host a Dinner Party

    A basement dining area with a wood ceiling

    Erin Williamson Design

    This basement dining area is anchored by a large, wood dining table that's great for hosting a dinner party or for enjoying a game or two of chess. The kitchenette makes food prep and serving easier, while the warm wood accent ceiling draws the eye up. The nearby staircase is a modern touch when paired with the white textured wall.

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  • 21 of 50

    Make the Bathroom Stylish

    A basement bathroom with a nautical theme

    Michelle Berwick Design

    Just because a bathroom is in a basement, doesn't mean it has to be low on your redesigning to-do list. This basement bathroom has it all when it comes to style, from the distressed wood, floating vanity to the shiplap navy walls that bring texture and depth to the room. The room combines modern and traditional elements to create a timeless and elegant design.

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  • 22 of 50

    Keep It Simple

    A basement gym with a tv

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Mackenzie Merrill

    A home gym will save you a lot of money and can help you stay consistent with your workouts, and it can be as easy as setting up a couple pieces of equipment. This home gym is simple yet has everything you need for a complete workout. A small buffet table holds yoga equipment and shoes, while a storage basket holds yoga mats. A treadmill, resistance bands and a TV provide everything you need to get a good workout in.

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  • 23 of 50

    Brew Your Own Beers

    A basement with a home brewery

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Mackenzie Merrill

    Think of your basement area as a flex room where you can practice your hobbies. If your hobby is something like brewing your own beer, the basement is a great place to keep all the tools away from the rest of your home while still having enough space. This basement features a chalkboard, a working sink and a brewery sign to complete the space.

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  • 24 of 50

    Add Built-In Storage

    A finished gym basement with a storage cabinet

    Michelle Berwick Design

    If you have the space, use it to its full potential. This large basement features built-in cabinets that help keep this home gym clutter free. The all-white design makes the space feel open and clean.

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  • 25 of 50

    Keep It Classic

    A basement with a sitting area

    Design by Amy Leferink of Interior Impressions

    This basement is designed to be both functional and inviting, with a variety of features that are perfect for relaxing and entertaining, from the comforable leather sofa to the fully stocked kitchenette. The center of the room features a classic pool table for a friendly competition with friends and family. The dining table towards the back of the basement is a perfect spot to take a break to eat dinner or enjoy a beer, while the kitchenette provides a convenient area to prepare food and drinks.

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  • 26 of 50

    Increase Joy in Your Home Office

    Basement home office

    Casa Watkins Living

    As remote work becomes more and more popular, so does the need for a productive workspace at home. Consider transforming your finished basement into a wonderful home office, like this bright and colorful one. The bright design and use of color are perfect for boosting creativity. We love the use of multiple textures, and the wallpapered ceiling adds dimension without making the space feel small or cramped.

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    Create a Cozy Ambiance

    A basement with a stone fireplace wall

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Mackenzie Merrill

    The floor-to-ceiling stone accent wall is the focal point of this basement. The wall features natural stone in varying shades that bring a touch of warmth and texture to the space. In the center of the stone wall is a built-in modern gas fireplace that enhances the warm and inviting feel of the room and perfectly complements the natural beauty of the stone wall. A large sectional across the fireplace is ideal for hosting friends or for enjoying solo time for a midday nap or movie night.

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  • 28 of 50

    Transform a Basement Closet

    A basement wine cellar

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Mackenzie Merrill

    A small basement closet makes an ideal wine cellar. All you need is a wooden wine bottle rack and holder and a small countertop for extra storage. This basement wine cellar also features a window into the rest of the basement so guests can peer in to see the collection.

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  • 29 of 50

    Add Built-In Storage

    A stair nook with a beverage station

    Brophy Interiors

    Sure, an unfinished basement can store boxes, but who likes to dig around in a dank, dark basement to find what you need? Instead, consider adding charming built-ins to your basement living space. Not only will you have more space to store photo albums, extra kitchenware and other knick knacks, but depending on type of storage unit, you can use it as a makeshift bar.

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    Make It Bold

    A basement home office with blue walls

    JK Interior Living

    The rich, dark blue hue on the walls adds a sense of depth and drama to this home office basement. The color is warm and inviting, yet provides a sense of focus and productivity. The high-end leather chairs add extra texture and elegance to the room, while the fun artwork adds a touch of personality and charm to help balance out the space.

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  • 31 of 50

    Enjoy a Night of Music Writing

    A basement music room with guitars on the wall

    Kendall Wilkinson Design

    This musician's sanctuary has it all, from the collection of guitars on the wall to the ceiling light that resembles a set of drums. The large sectional provides a place for musician friends to collaborate and enjoy a night of music writing together.

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  • 32 of 50

    Create a Functional Bathroom

    A basement bathroom with a navy vanity

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Mackenzie Merrill

    Even the smallest of basement bathrooms can be highly functional. This small bathroom features a slim and sleek vanity that provides plenty of countertop space for guests to store their toiletries and drawers so you can store extra items they may need during their stay. The horse print reflects the owner's personal style and adds a bit of whimsy to the bathroom.

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  • 33 of 50

    Create a Coffee Station

    A kitchenette underneath stairs

    Burchard Design Co.

    When guests stay at your house, they may not have the same morning schedule as you. To help them feel at home and comfortable, provide a small spot with all the coffee essentials for them to make their coffee how and when they like it. This small kitchenette sits in the area underneath the stairs, often called the spandrel, making great use of this normally unused space.

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  • 34 of 50

    Add a Farmhouse Look

    A basement laundry room

    @kirsten.diane / Instagram

    From the multiple coat hooks to the simple storage, this laundry area will make washing, drying and ironing more efficient. The built-in storage keeps the clutter at bay and adds a farmhouse feel to the basement.

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  • 35 of 50

    Host a Movie Night

    A basement home theatre with red walls and a galaxy ceiling

    Maite Granda

    From the bright red walls to the galaxy ceiling, this home theater is reminiscent of a theater from your childhood. The biggest difference is the money you'll save and the comfortable seating you'd never find in the theater. Plus, no noisy movie goers.

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  • 36 of 50

    Make Laundry Day Easier

    A basement laundry room with cabinets

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Jill Hamilton

    If your main house doesn't have enough space to do your laundry, it may be worth installing a washer and dryer hookup in your basement. This basement features plenty of cabinet and countertop space for storing all the essential cleaning items and room to fold clothes straight out of the dryer.

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  • 37 of 50

    Design a Bright and Airy Home Office

    A basement home office

    Michelle Berwick Design

    This basement home office may have a low ceiling, but it feels bright and airy thanks to the soft color palette and wall stickers that extend up to the ceiling, helping draw the eye up. The soft blue wainscoting adds texture and interest to the space, while floating shelves provide storage without taking up too much wall space. A chaise lounge is a spot to relax when you need a break from work.

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  • 38 of 50

    Install a Resort-Style Shower

    A basement shower with subway tiles

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Mackenzie Merrill

    This basement shower got a complete makeover, from the sleek glass door to the white subway tiling. A built-in bench is perfect for guests to feel at home and enjoy a long, luxurious shower. The glass door makes the bathroom feel more spacious and airy by allowing plenty of natural light in.

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  • 39 of 50

    Create a Makeshift Mudroom

    A mudroom nook underneath stairs

    @s.u.s.a.p. / Instagram

    No mudroom, no problem. The space underneath this basement staircase is large enough to fit furniture and a coat rack that act as a makeshift mudroom. This is also an opportunity to hang your hat collection on the wall that doubles as one-of-a-kind artwork.

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  • 40 of 50

    Create a Cozy Sanctuary

    A basement with charcoal colored walls

    @kirsten.diane / Instagram

    If you live in a cold climate, a basement can be a warm and cozy sanctuary to hibernate in. This basement living area features dark walls and cabinetry that warm up the space, while a gas fireplace and plenty of cozy throws add texture and warmth.

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  • 41 of 50

    Create a Space Fit for a Winery

    A basement bar with a stone accent wall

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Drew Gray

    This kitchen setup resembles a countryside winery with its natural stone backsplash and dark wood cabinetry. A wine bottle cabinet and mini fridge hold favorite bottles of wine, while leather stools provide a place for friends to gather for drinks and conversation. Your guests will feel like they're visiting their favorite winery in a space like this.

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  • 42 of 50

    Enjoy Your Book Collection

    A basement with built in shelving

    Chelius House of Design

    A basement is oftentimes secluded and quiet, so it only makes sense to convert it into a home library. These built-in shelves beautifully display a book collection as well as some collected decor items for a sophisticated look. A matching velvet sofa tucks neatly into the alcove and provides a spot to quietly enjoy reading your favorite books.

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  • 43 of 50

    Host Game Night

    A finished basement with shuffle board and a stone fireplace

    Michelle Berwick Design

    If you love gathering and hosting friends to watch your favorite team play, make sure all your guests have full view of the TV. This basement features a comfortable sofa as well as a bar top table with multiple chairs for guests who want to comfortably eat and drink while watching the game. During halftime and after the game, you can keep the party going by playing a competetive game of shuffle board or guests can cozy up by the gas fireplace.

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  • 44 of 50

    Display an Accent Wall

    A basement with a black and white striped accent wall

    Michelle Berwick Design

    The black-and-white accent wall is a bold, focal point in this basement TV room. The horizontal lines make the low-ceiling room feel larger, while the the rest of the walls are kept white for a more open, airy look. Even though the space is small, the sectional provides seating for plenty of friends.

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  • 45 of 50

    Display a Gallery Wall

    A basement with a gallery wall

    Design In House Design / Photo by Phil Crozier

    Don't forget the basement when it comes to your home's design. This basement design shines with a colorful gallery wall that reflect's the owner's personal aesethetic. Cozy throws and blankets, as well as items from travel give the basement a collected over time look that will stand the test of time.

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  • 46 of 50

    Go Hygge-Wild

    finished modern basement

    Photo by Tamara Flanagan / Styling by Beige & Bleu Design Studio

    Here's another cozy finished basement design that adds a lot of living space to your home. This living room from ​utilizes natural light to create a Scandinavian-inspired retreat that provides a great area to lounge or host guests. Keep the furniture and color palette neutral and relaxed to maintain a low-key, modern vibe.

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  • 47 of 50

    Experiment With Color

    A basement kitchenette with teal cabinets

    White Sands

    Not sure if you want to go bold on color in your home? The basement is one way you can experiment with colors you've been wanting to design your home in but aren't sure you will love. This teal basement kitchenette shows that a fun experiment with color can add a visually appealing look to an otherwise dark basement.

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  • 48 of 50

    Get Crafty

    A basement craft room

    Michelle Berwick Design

    Having space in your home to get your creative juices flowing and work on your hobbies can be therapuetic for some people. If you don't have the room in your main house to create a spot like this, converting your basement into a craft space is a great option. Not only does this craft space feature clever pegboard wall storage, but the wall and ceiling treatment inspire creativity while making the room feel larger. A large desk is a comfortable spot to try out new crafts, while a hanging hammock chair completes the fun space.

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  • 49 of 50

    Provide Plenty of Seating

    A large sectional in a basement

    Design by Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions / Photo by Mackenzie Merrill

    If you love to host board game nights, the basement is a place in the home where you have your own area to be as comfortable as possible with all your friends. Providing enough seating can make or break a game night, so adding a large sectional surrounding a table is the ideal setup for a night playing games with friends.

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  • 50 of 50

    Heat Things Up

    A basement sauna

    Michelle Berwick Design

    What's better than relaxing and sweating out the toxins after a long day? Not much, and designating a place in your basement for a suana if you can is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.