Jan 21, 2015

Basement renovation: Bright multi-purpose family room

Before: Basement

Erin's basement before its bright and inviting renovation.

White storage cabinets

At the far end of the family room, blend-into-the-wall white storage cabinets offer function without adding visual weight for a bright, airy space. Classics like Breakfast at Tiffany’s grace the TV screen on frequent family movie nights.

Dining nook

An existing large alcove was the natural choice for the dining nook. Grey paint defines it and balances out the stone-clad fireplace across the room.

White-painted wood walls

The next big thing to windows that open to the outside? A pair of radiant nature photographs paired with newly installed pot lights. The wall treatment of white-painted wood boards lends the room a Scandi-chic vibe.

Mauve accents

To sustain the airness of the space, Erin chose a palette of soft greys and taupes with mauve accents.

High-gloss storage

Erin opted for a touch-latch mechanism in place of door pulls on the high-gloss flat-panelled storage unit (made from prefab IKEA cabinetry) for a totally streamlined look.

Storage units

A light push in the right spot on the white storage units reveals the family’s extended collection of classic flicks and literature.

Wall-hung radiator

Seating options abound in the new family-friendly space. Even Cloudy, homeowner Style at Home editor-in-chief Erin McLaughlin’s Siamese cat, gets a stylish perch of his very own in an unused corner. The inconspicuous wall-hung radiator was a practical addition in the circa-1920s room.

Weekly inspiration

Before: Basement

White storage cabinets

Dining nook

White-painted wood walls

Mauve accents

High-gloss storage

Related article

Basement

Basement renovation: Bright multi-purpose family room

Storage units

Wall-hung radiator

Related article

Basement

Basement renovation: Bright multi-purpose family room

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Basement renovation: Bright multi-purpose family room