Lake House Basement

The basement is the last room in the house that ever gets a makeover and for many homeowners it is wasted space. This basement was in very good shape but it had no charm and couldn’t be farther from warm. The homeowners wanted a room that reminded them of the family lake house by Niagara Falls. The challenge was to take this antiseptic space and make it warm and inviting.

The first thing to go was the contractor grade carpet, it was in great shape but did nothing to enhance the look of the room and was carefully removed and donated. Wide plank engineered pine floors were added to lay the groundwork of the lake house feel. This click lock floor is easy to install, moisture resistant and works well in a basement.

Adding a ventless gas fireplace instantly gave the room a warm inviting feeling. This standard gas fireplace was e nhanced with stacked slate in a rust color to give it a bit of rustic charm. This project transformed the space but one should never do this without the help of a professional that can connect the gas line.

The use of beadboard and chair rail molding gives the room a traditional look. Keeping the beadboard white and the top of the wall neutral gives this windowless room the brightness it needs. The use of dark floors and light walls works well for this style.

The homeowners original sofa and chair remain and the coffee table is replaced with an antique green trunk. The trunk compliments the rust and red accent colors in the room. A contemporary chair is also added to the room to mix things up make sure it does not become a theme room.

The tv and stereo equipment is integrated into the wall giving back much needed square footage to the small space. The use of wireless technology gives these homeowners the opportunity to hide away all of their components.

Rustic artwork, a patchwork rug and treasured family photos give these homeowners the lake home away from lake home they were dreaming of.