Sometimes the most valuable square footage in your home has been there all along. This is true for our recent client, Chris B, who came to Advance Design looking to maximize his home’s footprint with a complete basement remodel.
His existing basement was dark, outdated, and lacked functional storage. Chris wanted his basement to be ideal for hosting friends and family, with unique design moments to stand out from the average basement.
Advance Design Lead Designer Chris Low worked with this Huntley homeowner to redesign his basement and create intentional living spaces, which were brought to life by the rest of the Advance Design crew.
Making a Statement
A beautiful fireplace was at the top of Chris’ wishlist, and after working with his Lead Designer and seeing the 3D renderings, he was able to envision how the statement piece would fit into the basement remodel. Soon the redesign was brought from renderings to reality, and Chris loves the way the space turned out! Providing warmth and coziness to the lower level, the fireplace also features open shelving and cabinetry on either side, stacked stone, and handcrafted details by the ADS team.
“I enjoyed working with my client to find the best design solution for that area of the basement,” said ADS Lead Designer Chris Low. “The fireplace is my favorite part of the new space. The stacked stone look adds natural texture and color against the white built-ins, and the hearth is gorgeous with that black granite top. I’m thrilled with how it came together!”
Occasionally, projects require design solutions that utilize our team’s senior carpentry expertise. The mantel, floating shelves, and shiplap behind the fireplace and kitchenette were handcrafted by the talented ADS Construction Manager Jason Johnson. We take pride in the creative skill of our team, and these handcrafted details are just one example of the passion our team has for quality craftsmanship.
“I enjoy making custom pieces when the opportunity arises in our projects,” says Jason. “The handcrafted floating shelves I made are really sturdy in construction, so they can hold more weight and will last longer than most premade options on the market. I enjoyed working with Chris to create a few custom pieces to complete his space, I love how they came together.”
Wet Bar + Storage Solutions
Originally, a wet bar area tucked into a corner of the basement made the space feel a bit disconnected, lacking flow. To remedy this, Lead Designer Chris moved the wet bar to the center of the basement and added a spacious island for additional storage and seating/standing room.
Even before the relocated kitchenette area was constructed, our client was able to visualize the seamless flow of the new layout with the 3D renders and feel confident moving forward with this design direction.
The finished space acts as a central hub to seamlessly connect each of the four corners of the basement. Whether you’re playing pool, watching a movie, relaxing in the guest room, or warming up by the fire, the kitchen area brings everyone back together!
“The kitchenette was really cornered off before and lacked flow. We wanted it to feel more like a hub for the basement. Jason did a great job on the floating shelves and accent wall behind the bar, it feels separate yet effortlessly connected with the other areas of the basement,” said Chris Low.
Engineered hardwood was chosen to replace the carpet that was in the basement previously because it is easy to maintain, absorbs sound, can be waterproof, and comes in a variety of styles. Pocket lights were added above the kitchenette to complement the bar sconces and create even, balanced lighting.
Kitchenette w/beverage cooler, island, & handcrafted floating shelves
The increased storage space is exactly what our client was envisioning. The soon-to-be coffee bar area adjacent to the guest bedroom offers the most storage, along with the fireplace built-ins and kitchenette cabinetry.
Why We Love Basement Remodels
Basement remodels often come with ceiling height limitations and more complex mechanical planning, which is part of the reason why Chris enjoys helping clients through them. By knowing the creative potential and possible limitations that come with basement remodels, he expertly helps clients navigate through the design process and find design solutions that are unique to their space and lifestyle.
ADS Lead Designer Chris Low
“I love helping clients realize their ideal basement setup because there is so much you can do with the blank canvas that basements offer,” says Chris Low. “Whether it’s a home gym, entertainment area, game room, fireplace, or bar, I enjoy helping homeowners recognize the valuable square footage that is already there. A basement remodel adds so much value and function to your home!”
See more of this project on our Houzz page.
Basement Layout: Before vs After
Chris loves his new basement and each unique space in it, along with the Common Sense model our team used to help him reach his goal. With winter right around the corner, we can’t wait for him to utilize all the storage spaces, entertain loved ones, and enjoy the cozy fireplace!
“The design to completion model is beneficial. The employees were helpful and professional and did quality work. Chris Low did a great job in helping to design my overall vision of my basement remodel,” Chris B said.
We’re ready to help bring your basement project to life! With our “Common Sense Remodeling” approach, the process of renovating your home has never been easier. Let’s get started! Call us at 847-836-2600 or schedule an appointment with one of our talented designers.