Basement Remodel Cost Estimates in Northwest Chicago Suburbs (2025 Guide)

Q: How much does it cost to add a wet bar or kitchenette to my basement remodel?

Adding a wet bar or kitchenette to your basement remodel typically starts around $20,000, depending on layout, appliances, and finishes. Common layouts include: - A traditional wet bar with sink and storage - A bar wall or peninsula with casual seating - A compact kitchenette for added convenience Standard features include custom cabinetry, granite or quartz countertops, a beverage center or mini-fridge, a wet sink, and recessed lighting. Popular upgrades include: - Tiled backsplashes and open shelving - Built-in appliances like ice makers or wine coolers - Premium finishes and smart lighting

Q: What key features add value to a full basement renovation?

Value-adding features in a full basement remodel often include: - Custom wet bars or kitchenettes - Wine display or cellar - Home theater or media room - Secondary living space or guest suite - Home gym or kids' play area - Creative built-in storage These upgrades improve daily function and boost resale value.

Q: What increases the cost of my basement remodel?

Major cost drivers include: - Adding bathrooms or kitchenettes - Structural changes like moving beams or lowering floors - Custom features such as speakeasies or home theaters - Rerouting HVAC or ceiling redesign - Waterproofing and sump pumps - Permits, inspections, and regional labor rates Working with a design-build firm helps you prioritize what matters most and keep your investment aligned with your goals.

Q: Is it better to define a budget first or let the design guide the investment?

Both approaches work—choose based on your comfort level. - Starting with a defined budget brings clarity and efficiency - Letting design guide the budget allows more flexibility and creativity At Advance Design Studio, we help homeowners succeed with either path, aligning design and cost from the very beginning.

Small Basements

Large Basements

Budget First or Design First? How to Approach Your Remodeling Investment

When planning a basement remodel, one of the first questions we ask is: “Would you prefer to define your budget first, or let the design guide the investment?”

The truth is, both approaches can work successfully. It really depends on your comfort level, decision-making style, and how much flexibility you want during the process.

In today’s climate, homeowners are increasingly thoughtful about home improvement investments—especially when it comes to transforming an underused space like the basement. A full basement remodel offers incredible potential for added living space, functionality, and home value. That’s why it’s essential to start with a clear strategy—whether you’re setting firm budget limits or exploring design options first.

Starting with a Defined Budget

Think of it like buying a home. When you work with a realtor, one of the first things they ask is your price range. Why? Because showing you homes far outside your budget isn’t helpful- it wastes time, leads to disappointment, and sets unrealistic expectations.

The same logic applies to remodeling. If you have a firm financial cap, starting with a defined budget helps us tailor the entire design process around clear parameters. While this might limit some bells and whistles, it doesn’t mean compromising on quality or style.

Ideal For Homeowners Who:

Prefer financial clarity and predictability from the beginning
Want to make decisions quickly and efficiently
Are focused on getting the best value within a set range

Letting Design Guide the Budget

If your priority is to see what’s possible and design your dream basement from scratch, letting the design guide the budget may be the better route. This approach allows for more creativity and evolution throughout the design phase.

By not setting strict limits too early, you have the flexibility to prioritize features– like a home theater, guest suite, gym, bar, or custom storage- based on what matters most to you.

Ideal For Homeowners Who:

Want to see what’s possible before setting a number
Are comfortable with a more fluid budget range
Value customization and innovation throughout the process
Have the flexibility to invest more in a personalized, high-impact result

Key Factors Affecting Basement & Lower Level Remodel Costs

Basement and lower level remodel pricing will vary significantly based on your goals, design choices, and the professionals you work with. Any estimate you receive should be viewed as a starting point, not a final price tag. The real cost of your project will be shaped by several key factors, including:

Scope of Work: Are you building out new rooms, adding a bathroom, or relocating utilities?
Material Selections: Flooring, cabinetry, lighting, bathroom fixtures, wall treatments, and built-in features like bars or entertainment centers all influence your total investment.
Labor and Professional Services: Basement work often involves specialized framing, insulation, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and waterproofing. Project management, demolition, carpentry, and installation all carry variable costs depending on the complexity and quality of work.

Every remodeling journey is different. As your design evolves, so can your budget- and that’s completely normal! Whether you’re adjusting your wish list or responding to discoveries along the way, flexibility is part of the process. At Advance Design Studio, our design-build method ensures that your final scope, pricing, and timeline are locked in before construction begins. This turnkey approach makes the difference; it lets you make fully informed decisions with a clear picture of cost, scope and timing, reducing surprises once work is underway.

Built-in Basement Bar and Wine Storage by Advance Design Studio

Advance Design Studio: Your Partner in Basement Remodeling

At Advance Design Studio, we help homeowners throughout the Northwest Chicago suburbs transform their lower levels into beautiful, functional living spaces that enhance everyday life. Whether you envision a cozy family room, guest suite, home gym, or entertainment space, our full service design-build team will guide you through every decision with clarity and confidence.

This basement remodel cost guide offers a realistic investment range for professional renovations in our area- whether you’re finishing an empty space or completely overhauling an existing one.

Think of these ranges as a starting point to help you plan with confidence.

Schedule Your Free Basement Consultation

Small Basement Remodel Cost Estimates

under 1,000 square feet

Base-Level

$60k+

BASIC FINISHES, OPEN LAYOUT, & NO DEDICATED ROOMS

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
2 x 4 Wood Framing
R-15 Fiberglass Insulation as Needed
Switches & Outlets
Limited HVAC Rework
Drywall & Taping (Walls)
Solid Core Paint Grade Doors
Paint Grade 3 1/4″ Baseboard, Shoe & 2 1/4″ Casing
Base-Level Luxury Vinyl Plank, Carpet, or Laminate Flooring
Dust Control, Cleanup & Debris Removal
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

Mid-Level

$80k+

MID-LEVEL FINISHES, OPEN LAYOUT, & 1 DEDICATED ROOM

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
2 x 4 Wood Framing
R-15 Fiberglass Insulation
Switches, Outlets, & Can Lights
HVAC Rework
Drywall & Taping (Walls/Ceiling)
Solid Core Paint Grade Doors
Paint Grade 4 1/4″ Baseboard, Shoe & 2 1/4″ Casing
Mid-Level Luxury Vinyl Plank or Laminate Flooring
Dust Control, Cleanup & Debris Removal
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

Upper-Level

$100k+

UPPER-LEVEL FINISHES, OPEN LAYOUT, & 2 DEDICATED ROOMS

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
2 x 4 Wood Framing
R-15 Fiberglass Insulation
Electrical Panel Upgrade As Needed
Switches, Outlets, & Can Lights
HVAC Rework
Drywall & Taping (Walls/Ceiling)
Solid Core Paint Grade Doors
Paint Grade 4 1/4″ Baseboard, Shoe & 3 1/2″ Casing
Upper-Level Luxury Vinyl Plank, Tile, or Epoxy Flooring
Specialty Zone-Specific Flooring
Dust Control, Cleanup & Debris Removal
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

This chart is a preliminary tool to help estimate potential remodeling costs; it is not a quote. Specific project estimates and final costs will vary based on numerous factors determined during the course of project analysis—every project is unique.

What does it cost to add a bathroom to my basement remodel?

Adding a bathroom to your basement typically starts around $25,000 on top of the general basement remodel cost. This base-level price covers all the essentials: a fiberglass shower base with surround, a 36-inch vanity with cabinetry, a granite or quartz remnant countertop, basic plumbing fixtures and lighting, and porcelain tile flooring.

If you’re looking for a more upscale finish, you can opt for upgrades such as:

Poured shower bases for durability and a polished look
Tiled shower walls for amplified style and character
Dry fall ceilings that conceal mechanicals while adding a modern touch
Premium fixtures and finishes that elevate both style and function

These enhancements can significantly increase the final cost, depending on your selections and existing basement conditions.

How much does it cost to add a wet bar or kitchenette to my basement remodel?

Adding a wet bar or kitchenette to your basement remodel typically starts around $20,000, depending on the layout, materials, and appliances you choose.

Popular configurations include:

A dedicated wet bar with a sink, prep counter, and built-in storage
A sleek bar wall that maximizes space without sacrificing style
A bar wall with a peninsula or island to create casual seating and entertaining space

A standard setup often features:

Custom cabinetry tailored to your basement layout
Granite or quartz countertops for durability and aesthetics
A beverage center or mini-fridge
Plumbing rough-ins and installation of a wet sink
Recessed and decorative lighting to elevate the ambiance

You can further personalize your basement bar space with upgrades like:

Tiled backsplashes and open shelving
Built-in appliances like ice makers or wine coolers
Premium hardware, finishes, and smart lighting controls

A well-designed wet bar not only adds functionality but also boosts your home’s entertainment value and resale appeal. For inspiration on style and layout, check out these 10 Home Bar Ideas to help guide your basement bar or kitchenette design.

What increases the cost of my basement remodel?

The biggest cost drivers are adding plumbing (bathrooms or bars), mechanical upgrades (HVAC, sump pumps), structural adjustments (ceilings, beams, stairs), and custom features (speakeasies, theaters). Permits, waterproofing, labor, and high-end finishes also add significant cost.

Factor	Cost Impact
Adding bathrooms/kitchenettes	High
Structural changes	High
Custom features	High
New egress windows/doors	Medium–High
Ceiling type & HVAC rerouting	Medium
Waterproofing & sump pump	Medium
Standard finishing (flooring, drywall)	Medium
Permits & inspections	Low–Medium
Labor & regional rates	Variable

A trusted design-build partner will help you control costs from the very beginning phases of planning your lower level remodel. Be intentional: start with must-haves first, then layer on style and custom touches to stay on budget and maximize your investment.

Read: What Factors Can Impact my Finished Basement Cost?

Large Basement Remodel Cost Estimates

1,200-1,500 square feet

Base-Level

$100k+

BASIC FINISHES, OPEN LAYOUT,
& 2 DEDICATED ROOMS

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
2 x 4 Wood Framing
R-15 Fiberglass Insulation as Needed
Switches & Outlets
Limited HVAC Rework
Drywall & Taping (Walls/Ceiling)
Solid Core Paint Grade Doors
Paint Grade 3 1/4″ Baseboard, Shoe & 2 1/4″ Casing
Base-Level Luxury Vinyl Plank, Carpet, or Laminate Flooring
Dust Control, Cleanup & Debris Removal
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

Mid-Level

$125k+

MID-LEVEL FINISHES, OPEN LAYOUT, & 2-3 DEDICATED ROOMS

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
2 x 4 Wood Framing
R-15 Fiberglass Insulation
Switches, Outlets, & Can Lights
HVAC Rework
Drywall & Taping (Walls/Ceiling)
Solid Core Paint Grade Doors
Paint Grade 4 1/4″ Baseboard, Shoe & 2 1/4″ Casing
Mid-Level Luxury Vinyl Plank or Laminate Flooring
Dust Control, Cleanup & Debris Removal
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

Upper-Level

$150k+

UPPER-LEVEL FINISHES, OPEN LAYOUT, & 2+ DEDICATED ROOMS

Professionally Designed & Managed
Professionally Curated Product Selections
2 x 4 Wood Framing
R-15 Fiberglass Insulation
Electrical Sub-Panel Upgrade
Switches, Outlets, & Can Lights
HVAC Rework
Drywall & Taping (Walls/Ceiling)
Solid Core Paint Grade Doors
Paint Grade 4 1/4″ Baseboard, Shoe & 3 1/2″ Casing
Upper-Level Luxury Vinyl Plank, Tile, or Epoxy Flooring
Specialty Zone-Specific Flooring
Dust Control, Cleanup & Debris Removal
2 Year Craftsmanship Guarantee

What key features add value to a full basement renovation?

A comprehensive basement remodel often includes custom kitchenettes or wet bars, wine display or cellar, home theater, secondary living space, kids’ play zones, home gym, and hidden storage. These amenities not only elevate daily living but also increase home resale value.

See: What Should I Include In My Basement Remodel?

Is it better to define a budget first or let the design guide the investment?

Both methods can lead to successful outcomes—it depends on your personality and comfort level with flexibility.

If you have a firm financial cap, starting with a defined budget helps streamline the design process around clear limits. This may narrow your options in materials and layout, but doesn’t compromise on quality or aesthetics.
On the other hand, if you want to explore various possibilities or tailor the design creatively, letting design shape the budget within a range allows for more innovation and flexibility for your vision to evolve.

At Advance Design Studio, we guide you through either path, helping you make informed choices that align with your basement remodel priorities.