Let’s take a look downstairs to the often forgotten space of a home. Whether it is a storage room, party area or kids playroom, the basement has long been an “afterthought” space. The last couple years, however, have seen the basement becoming a newly reinvented area! From the ultimate man’s cave to a sophisticated bar and entertaining room, basements are being  ____refreshed- and what better use of real estate?

The key to a successful basement design is really about dressing up the functions. If you are entertainers, love to have a glass of wine with friends over, invest in a bar area, and save on accents! Keeping a neutral palette keeps the space feeling warm and cozy and adding throws, vases, and candles will help keep it feel modern. And, as the season and years go by, you can always change the accessories up and your guests will be impressed. Of course, keep in mind the flooring. Thick luxurious carpet is great underfoot in the seating areas, but stick to tile in the bar area for easy cleanup and maintenance.

We recently did a basement project with a stunning bar and fireplace feature. The space featured a warm neutral palette, using the richness of chocolate browns and caramel based colours makes it relaxing and striking. Using a metallic tile on the fireplace catches light and plays with the dimension of the room- you would never guess you were below ground!

 Beatiful amber pendant lights add a pop of colour and pair with the orange throw pillows, a simple way to add a little zest to otherwise neutral space. The swanky bar is low-maintenance with a granite counter top and easy to clean metallic tile backsplash but packs a punch in style with moody deep colours set against the creamy walls.

Ames Metallica 12″ x 24″ Tile – Bronze

Benjamin Moore #2142-60 November Rain

All images used by permission of JD Signature Homes.

If the function you really need is a play area and family relaxation spot, think kid-friendly but with style. A great floor is a LVP – luxury vinyl plank; coming in a variety of colours and styles, this is a vinyl product that is glued straight to the floor and virtually indestructible. Maintenance is a just a simple sweep- perfect for families on the go. Paired with vibrant pops of colour, check out this great corner in a basement.

Great wood-look vinyl planks from Kennedy Flooring.

http://www.amestile.com/upload/pdf/MetallicaProductSheet.pdf,  http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-ca/paint-color/novemberrain, http://www.kennedyfloorings.com/LVT.page ,  http://pinterest.com/pin/139189444705345303/