Here are some thought starters to get you on the right track. These are some of the techniques and processes we used throughout the design phase of our basement remodeling project.
- Start by making a rough drawing of your basement as it is now. Measure and label all windows, exterior walls, the stairway, and any ductwork or pipes that may become obstacles later.
- Make copies of your basement plan so you can create several variations to see which you like best. If you're using interior design software, keep a backup version of your 'clean' plan and save your modified versions under different file names.
Think of where the main traffic areas will be and make sure you have a clean flow throughout. You don't want to have to zig and zag to get around.
- If you want a bathroom you may be restricted to putting it in the area that's been 'roughed in'. Unless you enjoy busting up lots of thick concrete, place your bathroom in the design first and work your way from there.
- If you're putting in a bedroom, make sure you plan for an egress window. This provides a secondary exit in the event of a fire blocking the stairway. If you're getting building permits, this may be a requirement in a finished basement- regardless of whether you add a bedroom or not.
- Do a serious assessment of your skills and decide which pieces of your project you'd be better off 'outsourcing'. You'll have to spend some extra money, but it will pay for itself in the time saved and headaches avoided!
- Make a 'wish list' of all the things you'd like to have in your basement. Compare it to your spouse's or significant other's. You won't be able to include everything on the lists, but you may each come up with ideas the other hasn't thought of.
- Start to think of potential color schemes and decor. Visit home stores and Web sites to get ideas. Check out books from the library, and cut out magazine pictures. Although it will be awhile before you're ready for the finishing touches, doing some of this up front will save you time later. Plus, it gives you something to look forward to as you're pounding nail after nail….after nail…
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