If you have an unused basement space, it’s time to consider the possibilities! Whether you want to create a home gym to help you stay active or prefer to create a relaxing space within your home where you can enjoy quality time with family and friends, the pros at Kitchen & Bath Galleria can help!
In this guide, we’ll teach you how to use your basement and make it a beloved part of your home.
Staying active is crucial to remaining healthy. If you struggle to get to the gym or simply want the convenience of working out at home, a home gym in your basement is a great option!
When planning your home gym, consider your exercise needs. Having areas where you can strength train, do cardio, and stretch pre- and post-workout is essential. Additionally, you want the space to be well-lit with adequate ventilation to ensure a comfortable and safe workout environment. You can also add mirrors to help the area appear more open and give you a way to check your form.
To make the most of your space, you can choose compact machines like foldable treadmills or multifunctional weight benches that a smaller space can accommodate. Preventing clutter is also essential, so consider storage solutions such as a wall-mounted yoga mat holder, a rack for your resistance bands, and weight racks to keep your dumbbells organized.
Gym flooring is the foundation for your home gym. It provides a safe surface to work out on while protecting the floor beneath from occurrences such as dropped weights.
Choosing options like rubber mats or interlocking foam tiles allows for shock absorption to prevent injuries while also reducing noise so your workout doesn’t disturb others in the home.
If a relaxing retreat is more your style, check out these tips for creating a great space to relax:
Creating the right atmosphere is what will make or break your basement oasis. Consider installing ambient lighting to set the scene, complemented by soft rugs and calming wall colors. We recommend using a light blue or a serene sage green for the perfect tranquil backdrop.
For even more relaxation, add a couple of massage chairs to help you unwind after a long day or a small sauna to reap the health and relaxation benefits. If you’re a book lover, consider adding a comfy reading nook where you can enjoy your next book.
In addition to all the creature comforts, you can use this space as a yoga or meditation studio to get the most out of your at-home retreat.
Whether you like woodworking, painting, building models, or have other hobbies, your basement is a great place to create your hobby or craft space. When making a room dedicated to your hobbies, you can start by personalizing the space.
For DIY enthusiasts, consider setting up a workbench with peg boards to hold tools and other items within reach. If you need an art studio, set up easels, storage cabinets, and bright task lighting to ensure you can see your canvas easily.
Staying organized is crucial for your craft space. Be sure to clearly label your bins and consider floating shelves to keep items organized and off the ground. Depending on your needs, you may need custom cabinetry for tidy, easy-to-access storage.
Create an in-home theater to watch all your classic favorites and new releases. Start with soundproofing to keep your space quiet so you can enjoy the movie peacefully. You’ll also need a projector and plush seating for that move-theater feel.
Consider adding movie posters and a popcorn machine to your space for a complete experience.
A game room is perfect for creating memories with family and entertaining friends. Add a pool table for friendly competition and arcade machines of classics like Pacman for extra fun. Get a table and a shelf for all your board games, from checkers to Monopoly, for fun-filled family game nights!
For those who enjoy a drink when relaxing, consider adding a wet bar where you can have beer on draft, or if soda is your preferred drink, you can have your favorite on tap. A small kitchenette is a great addition, allowing you to host guests and make your favorite snacks anytime easily!
Before remodeling, there are several things to consider to ensure your basement is properly prepared:
Before painting the walls, installing new flooring, and buying furniture, it is important to ensure the basement is waterproof and properly sealed. Skipping this step can damage your new basement and force you to start over.
Interior waterproofing membranes can be applied to the inside and outside of your basement to prevent water from entering and causing issues such as water damage and mold growth.
When you turn your basement into a living space, your HVAC system must work efficiently to warm and cool the space. In some cases, your HVAC system may be unable to handle the demand of this additional square footage, leading to an uncomfortable basement throughout the seasons.
If your HVAC system works beyond its capacity, it can cause frequent breakdowns, eventually leading to the system failing. Upgrading your HVAC system will give you the extra heating and cooling capacity required to run your system efficiently. This will provide you with year-round comfort.
When planning a basement remodel, it’s essential to address permits and local regulations to ensure your project complies with the law. Building codes and permit requirements will vary by location, so check with your local building department to understand the specific rules in your area.
Permits will most likely be required for any structural changes, electrical work, plumbing, and modifications to ensure fire safety and proper egress. Failing to secure the necessary permits can lead to fines, delays, and complications when it comes time to sell your home. Adhering to these legal requirements will safeguard your investment and ensure your basement remodel meets safety and quality standards.
Ready to turn your basement into the personal space of your dreams? Contact Kitchen and Bath Galleria today to schedule a consultation for basement remodeling in Latrobe. Let’s bring your vision to life!