basement renovation ideas - gray sectional in finished basement with kitchenette

9 Beautiful Basement Renovations We Want to Copy

If you're considering undertaking a basement renovation but are in need of some additional inspo, don't worry, we've got you covered. We couldn't be bigger fans of the 9 basement renos outlined here, all of which prove that a little creativity can result in the major transformation of an often neglected part of the home.

Whether you want to create another living area or a place to practice your hobbies, it's time to start enjoying your basement and taking advantage of that extra space. Below are some excellent after photos that will leave you feeling motivated to get going with your own remodel.

Consider a Barn Door

basement reno

Kitty Cotten

Two sofas, a barn door, and artwork make for an instantly cozy space. Design blogger Kitty Cotten turned her basement into a spacious retreat for kicking back and lounging. She said goodbye to her basement's original wooden paneling and opted for soothing white walls and neutral pieces.

Create a Cozy Nook

cozy basement nook with reading chair, furry blanket and bookshelves

Design: Lea Johnson, Photo: Sage E

Blogger Lea Johnson turned a cookie cutter basement space into a home office, living room, and entertaining space by painting the space, incorporating a desk set-up, and adding cozy touches including a plush rug and a comfy reading nook.

The nook is complete with a chair, faux fur throw, and storage space, but the best part is the reading sconce above the chair. Though it looks totally custom, no hard wiring was required. Instead, Johnson stuck a puck light that's remote control operated to the sconce using a Command strip. How easy is that?

Show Off Your Personality

basement reno

Carla Bast

Carla Bast of Carla Bast Design took a personalized approach to this basement renovation, incorporating thoughtful details—like the owner's personal collection of beer caps as part of the bar backsplash—while still prioritizing function and relaxation (the basement also includes a home theater, bathroom, and lounge area.)

“This new basement finish is a true custom signature space," Bast says. "The lounge area with linear modern fireplace and unique custom shelves shows off our client’s collection of interesting accessories and artifacts."

Add Some Texture

basement reno

Suzanne Freeman

Blogger Suzanne Freeman of Life With Neal and Suz made over her basement ceiling as part of the renovation process, installing shiplap overhead and including canned lighting. Then came vinyl plank flooring and lots of paint.

"We wanted our basement area to be a relaxing space for our children and grandchildren to play games and watch television when visiting our home," Freeman shares. "We love how the lighter walls and shiplap ceiling make our basement bright and cheerful, while the new vinyl flooring gives the space a warm and cozy feel."

Embrace Extra Living Space

basement reveal

Jamin Mills

Jamin Mills of The Handmade Home turned a client's basement into a miniature home, renovating the space to feature a bedroom, bathroom, gathering area, and more. She incorporated additional windows into the space, which assist with brightness while making the basement more energy efficient.

Try a Modern Touch

basement with built-in kitchen, gray sectional and moroccan style rug

Corinne Kupish for Wise Design

This beautiful, modern basement by Wise Design features a kitchenette, breakfast nook, cushy lounge area, laundry station, and bathroom.

"Our clients had a lovely eye for design and picked many of the finishes themselves," designer Annie Wise says. "Their cool style was a huge driver for the renovation and we loved how everything turned out."

Play With Materials

basement reno

Interior Impressions

Beautiful backsplashes aren't just for upstairs spaces. This basement by Amy Leferink of Interior Impressions includes a subway tile backsplash behind the fireplace, which adds major style to the room. Exposed wooden beams set the tone for natural, neutral accents, and the paint behind the built-in bookshelves really make them pop.

Consider an Accent Wall

basement reno

Julian Design

A stone accent wall adds a luxurious touch to this sophisticated basement by Lacy Hughes of Julian Design. While the basement contains recessed lighting like many other similar spaces, a few pendant lights installed above the pool table add extra flair and serve a key function too.

Choose a Color Palette

basement reno

Interior Impressions

This basement by Amy Leferink of Interior Impressions proves that beiges and browns don't have to be boring! Incorporating features such as an exposed stone wall will add character to more monochromatic rooms. Touches of greenery and patterned pillows help spruce up the space without adding much color.