Transforming Your Basement Into a Cozy Retreat

Imagine turning your under-utilized, unfinished or outdated basement into a dreamy hideaway, or intriguing inviting social space. It can be done - and we can help.

A combination of careful planning and correct elements can transform the space into your new favourite place for family/social gatherings or a personal getaway within your own home. 

Bulwark Finishing specializes in basement renovations and can help bring such a project to fruition. (Alternatively, you can turn your basement into a secondary suite - more info on that here)

In the meantime, here are a few DIY methods for improving your basement for optimized coziness. 

Improved Lighting

Depending on directional facing, ground levels and window sizing, basements aren’t always known for getting the most natural light and often come with very basic light installations that can potentially add more gloom than lume. 

The best way to combat this is to combine three different types of light in the space; task, ambient and accent. Best selections include a combination of overhead lights with dimmers, floor lamps and wall sconces. 

If possible, opt for bulbs that can change colours and/or shades of white/yellow for the best effect based on your needs at any given time. 

Use Warm Colours

The warmer the space, furniture and accents, the cozier you’ll feel. Opt for warm white over paper white, earth tones over greys and soft neutrals over harsh darks. 

Invest in Comfortable Furniture

You’re putting all this thought and work into the look, function and ambience - let’s not forget cozy seating to really make it feel like home. 

Furniture favourites include oversized chairs, recliners and, of course, very plush sofas. (You can also find couches with recliners). 

Install or Upgrade Your Fireplace

Bringing literal warmth to your basement, even just the sight of a fireplace can make you feel relaxed and full of warm fuzzies. They’re also a great focal point for the space and ambiance. 

Learn more about our fireplace upgrade services here.

Make It Multifunctional

Remember when we mentioned adding three types of light? That was the first part of making your basement multifunctional - a goal which maximizes the space, value and appreciation of your lower level. 

Designate parts of your basement for entertainment (TV/video games), actual games or low-key activities (ex. reading) using the aforementioned lighting combos plus multi-use furniture, storage items, and other additions. 

Incorporate Nature

Including natural elements and materials like plants, wood (real or fake), and aesthetically pleasing stones will really tie your now-cozy space together, adding additional warmth and the relaxing feeling of being back among nature to the ambience and overall experience. 

Tabletop or corner floor fountains are also optimal add-ons for this part of the basement transformation. Watch for thirsty cats.

Ask Us About Upgrading Your Basement

Learn more about our basement renovations here or contact us for a quote.

Serving Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey and the Lower Mainland.