Homes - Renovating

Fabulous finished basement

By
Kathleen Dore
Photography by
Paul Chmielowiec

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Fabulous finished basement

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A cluttered basement is renovated into an organized living area.

finished-basement-before.jpgHow many renovation stories start with “One thing led to another...”? Yes, the old domino effect always thickens the plot, as it did for Style at Home art director Susan Rogers and her husband, Scott, a construction manager. When the two decided to install a second bathroom in the basement of their Toronto home, the project soon expanded to incorporate a new laundry/craft room and TV/guest room. And executing their plans meant digging down to gain headroom. Undaunted, Susan and Scott seized the opportunity to exercise their design savvy and bring their 1930s home into the 21st century with new technology, energy-efficient features and storage solutions. But wait! Don’t skip to the happy ending. As with any great story, the lessons along the way are well worth reading.


finished-basement-lounge.jpg

Sitting area The sectional sofa is a comfy spot to watch TV, and doubles as a pullout bed with hidden storage. A shag rug introduces texture to the tailored decor. Homeowner and Style at Home art director Susan Rogers joined two IKEA rugs with duct tape to create just the right size. Framed vintage streetcar canvases add graphic punch. How fitting that Rogers is at the top of one of them!

 

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3 Comments

  • by
    Connie
    on 2009-10-26
    Reply to this comment

    Great job on the basement. Congratulations!

  • by
    evangeline
    on 2009-10-26
    Reply to this comment

    The basement makeover is a winning combination of practical considerations and bold design. The clever use of multi-purpose areas enhanced by dramatic black/grey/red visuals really counters the reality that these spaces are in a basement. Comfort also seems to be a consideration in the overall plan. The attention to detail and use of space (eg. pocket door) has resulted in a spectacular approach to maximizing every square inch to meet the needs of the home owners as well as guests. Congratulations on a magnificent transformation. I'm inspired to rethink my basement area. Thank You! Angie

  • by
    Space Solutions
    on 2009-11-12
    Reply to this comment

    Curious where you came by the old streetcar rollsigns? They certainly date back to 60s at least, if not earlier.

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