A basement conversion into usable space can create a much loved paradise for your kids to play and learn.

The basement is now a light and airy space for the kids
Proper use of space
Many of us have an area in the house that is not properly utilised and might degenerate into a storage mess. This is such a shame as this is valuable space that you could transform into an additional room for your family to enjoy.
New life in old house
This is what our clients did, a family of four. Their 1920’s cottage in Gladesville had two smaller rooms in the basement that they used for storage. But if you have some disorganised storage space in your home yourself, you know that it clutters up in no time and trying to find something results in a major expedition.

After: a desk was created for the kids to do their homework
Brief for basement conversion
The Gladesville family called in the team of Inspired Spaces to design a childrens’ retreat on the lower storey for two school-aged children, a boy and a girl. The brief was to create an area where the kids could:
- play and craft and entertain friends
- do their homework
- watch TV and DVDs
- have a rest if they wish
In addition, the space was supposed to cater for all the storage needs from toys and books to craft supplies and play consoles.
Challenges of basement conversion
The design team faced the typical challenges you come across when transforming a cellar into a habitable room. The basement was dark, damp and contained support beams and columns in the wrong spots that couldn’t be moved. But the biggest issue was water occassionally flooding the lower level after heavy rains due to its sandstone construction.

Space before renovation

Same space with ample storage and a TV after water proofing the entire back wall
Addressing basement conversion issues
You might be wondering how our design team tackled those challenges and converted the storage area into a welcoming play area.
Transformation into a light space
We recommended a lining to the ceiling to be able to recess downlights into it. Apart from this, we kept the colour scheme light and airy, combining a timber look with white hues. This neutral palette can grow older with the kids as it’s easy to adapt. You can simply bring in a colourful rug to add some fun.

Dark space prior to transformation

Same area after renovation with a broom cupboard added underneath the stairs
Smart cabinet design
To create ample storage, some of the furniture pieces have dual purpose. There is for instance the daybed that also acts as a lounge to watch TV and contains oversized storage boxes underneath. The cabinets are custom built around the support posts to use every inch to the max, while the drawers are designed for the DVDs to fit in snug. We also designed a walk-in broome cupboard for underneath the staircase to ensure that no space is wasted.

Daybed with toy boxes on wheels underneath
Dampness and basement conversion
To protect the new furniture from getting wet in the converted basement, most furniture is placed on wheels. This way the family can wheel them away from the affected area when the floors get wet. With the water issue in mind, we selected the flooring wisely. The timber look laminate panels accept the moisture without any damage and at the same time make the space look welcoming and friendly.
Our builder partner for this transformation was Jervo Renovations.
The newly converted basement has become a much loved space for the family. For more inspirations have a look here.
If you consider transforming one of your area, please contact the team of Inspired Spaces.
Hi There, where is that floor rug from!? Its gorgeous!
Hi Skylar
It is from Decorugs, and I believe it is still available
With regards to the water and damp issue, what did you do with the walls and cabinetry ?
Hi Majella
We water proofed the applicable walls and the cabinetry is on waterproof flooring and the internal cabinetry under the stairs is on wheels so they can be moved easily in heavy downpours. Also created a barrier in this area to prevent seepage. Seems to have solved the problem . Depending on your individual situation you may be able to put drainage behind the applicable wall
Hello
Looking to terminate a basement – currently used as storage. Not sure the ceiling height meets standards – definitely doesn’t in som areas of the basement.
Would be great to have a meeting and look at options.
Thanks
Hi Michelle,
I have sent you an email with my details on it so you can ring to discuss your needs.
Speak soon
Robyn