Basement conversion into kids’ paradise

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.