Creating a Finished Basement in a Dark, Dank Space

I'm not sure what was nastier about the basement.  The puddles that formed from the leaky water meter and constant spring rain....













or the scary cobwebs that draped from the ceiling.






But our goal was to change this dark space into a light, bright living space.  And it was a big job!  We had to put in a perimeter drainage system (click here for the how to),

insulate the concrete walls with rigid foam,  and build new walls.

We also replaced/enlarged the windows to bring in more light.

One of the most dramatic changes was installation of a new clear bulkhead door, that lets the light come pouring through the space.  It has the added benefit of being egress approved, so this space could be a 3rd bedroom.

The result - lots of living space for whatever the new homeowner might want.

Kids playroom - Before

For staging, I did one side as a kid's playroom.....in large part because I found this adorable IVI kids play rug and couldn't resist it with its tufted section for lawns and houses (and it was so much fun to shop for all the little cars, trucks and accessories!).

Kids Playroom - After

At the Open House, people had to drag their kids away!

IVI 3D Kids Playrug - so much fun!!

The other side of the room is a den, where the homeowner can watch TV, listen to music or just relax.  It's a big space with lots of room to spare.

But that's not all!  We added a gleaming new laundry room, with lots of storage.

And my favorite feature?  This half bath.  It includes this antique sink that I spent LOTS and LOTS of time on (click here for the full story) and absolutely love.  And of course there's the antique toothbrush wallpaper that I imported from Holland.

So what's your opinion?  It's quite a change, don't you think???

Artwork - Earth Angel Arts

Sources:  

Original 'Morning Rocks' Painting - Holly Lombardo, Portland Art Gallery

Kids Room Art - Earthangel Arts

Play Rug - Mini City IVI 3D Playrug

Basement Bulkhead Door - Cleargress Doors

Wicker Chairs & Chest - Pottery Barn

Leather Sofa - Neiman Marcus

Wall Color - Sherwin Williams - Downy

Laundry Cabinetry - IKEA

Toothbrush Wallpaper - Obsession by Daniel Rozensztroch  NLXL 

Flooring - Lifeproof 100% Waterproof Premium Vinyl planks

Lifeproof Vinyl Flooring - Fresh Oak

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