10 Basement Remodeling Tips – Better Homes & Gardens

1. Make a Family Room or Rec Room

Basements are ideal for casual social activities for the whole family, or just for the kids. It's the perfect spot for the big screen TV, pool table, and to stash board games and craft supplies.

Make this space inviting by finishing and decorating it like any upstairs room. Choose comfortable furnishings that can be easily rearranged to accommodate a few people or a crowd. Incorporate sound systems, internet connections, and good lighting to make the space functional.

For more family room ideas and rec room designs, see:

A basement bedroom and full or half bath makes an ideal suite for guests or teens.

Think about who will sleep in the basement and the amenities they'll need to help you determine the best dimensions. To comfortably fit a double bed, you'll need a room with a minimum of 125 square feet. If twin beds will serve your needs better, plan on at least 150 square feet.

Building codes also require that basement bedrooms have an emergency exit that leads directly outside, either through a door or a window.

For ways to create comfortable basement bedrooms and baths, see:

A wet bar or mini kitchen in the basement makes entertaining much easier. The inclusion of a mini kitchen makes a basement with a bed and bath into an entire guest suite.

A kitchen requires access to hot and cold water, as well as electrical outlets for an undercounter refrigerator, a microwave oven, small countertop appliances, and possibly a small dishwasher or dishwasher drawer.

Excerpt from:
10 Basement Remodeling Tips - Better Homes & Gardens