Thursday, October 7, 2010

Remodel A Modern Basement

An outdated, dreary basement requires remodeling to bring it back to life. Modernizing a basement adds value to the home and creates another area for entertaining guests, friends and family -- a livable, useable space. You do not need to tear out and replace flooring in order to remodel a basement; instead, adding a fresh coat of paint and replacing an outdated light fixture gives the basement a modern appearance.


Instructions


1. Paint the ceiling in the basement with ceiling paint, using a paintbrush and paint roller. When selecting your ceiling paint, take into account the fact that light colors make the room appear larger and bright. Avoid a dark color, which will make the basement seem small and poorly lit.


2. Paralleling the treatment of the ceiling, paint the walls in the basement with a light shade of interior paint. Selecting a light shade for the walls helps to create an open, airy appearance.


3. Replace the current ceiling light fixtures with recessed light fixtures according to the manufacturer's directions. Recessed light fixtures work well in a basement because they do not require headroom and create a modern appearance.


4. Install crown molding around the entire basement. Crown molding comes in a variety of precut sizes and creates a high-end, modern appearance. Follow the manufacturer's directions.








5. Hang mirrors on the basement walls, in modern frames such as stainless steel. Mirrors reflect lighting, creating an illusion of a brighter basement. For addition lighting, place floor lamps and table lamps according to your personal preference.


6. Incorporate modern furniture in the basement -- for instance, a leather living room set with sleek tables.

Tags: ceiling paint, light fixtures, modern appearance, basement with, light shade, manufacturer directions