Considering a Basement Remodel?
Are you looking for more space, but aren’t in a position to put an addition on your home? Finishing your basement is a cost-effective way to add more square footage without building an addition onto your existing house.
Right now, your basement may be acting as storage space and a necessary home for your furnace and water heater. But a basement can be a dedicated living space with a skilled contractor and the right updates.
Basement Remodel ROI
Basement remodeling is consistently high on the list of projects that increase resale value. According to Remodeling magazine, basement remodel ROI is approximately 75 cents on the dollar. That national average means that out of every $100 you spend, you’ll recoup $75.
Don’t base your decision solely upon financial matters. Consider the benefits of additional living space without adding onto your home. You’ll gain significant comfortable space that can be used for anything you want!
You could have a:
- Man cave
- Playroom for the kids
- Spare bedroom
- Home office
- Home-based business
- Apartment
- Home gym or workout room
- & more!
While it’s great to consider ROI, the value of the living space for your family is tough to put a price tag on.
Benefits of a Finished Basement
In addition to a great ROI and new space, there are other benefits to a finished basement. Once finished, your basement will remain mold and mildew-free; insects, spiders, and rodents prefer dark, damp places to live — which is the opposite of your finished space; you can still use the area for dry storage, ensuring that whatever is kept there will stay safe and dry.
Basement Considerations
Egress
Local building codes may demand egress windows or doors if the basement is to be used as a bedroom.
Light
Plan for windows that will let as much natural light into your basement as possible. Discuss this with your contractor before construction begins. You don’t want your amazing new space to be too dark.
Ceiling
You may prefer the look of drywall ceilings, but most people choose drop ceilings for finished basements. Drop ceilings are best because you can lift tiles to access plumbing or electrical hookups if necessary.
Heating
In summer, basements generally stay cool, but in the winter, you may need heat to keep things warm. Talk to an HVAC contractor about the requirements for keeping your finished basement comfortable year-round.
A finished basement is a great investment in your home. Aside from the great ROI, your family will enjoy having the extra space for living or storage. However you choose to use the space, a basement remodel is a great idea! Contact Quality Homes of Rochester today for more details!
Your bathroom can be more than a space for personal care—it can be a refreshing mini-retreat.
Spa-Like Touches
Introduce design elements like river rock tiles in the shower, a teak bathmat, or a freestanding tub with a window view. Add an outdoors element by choosing a rainwater showerhead and allowing the water to feel like soft rainfall.
Natural Ventilation
Add an operable window or solar-powered skylight to naturally promote airflow and reduce humidity. A ventilation system or fan is essential for reducing moisture. Clean your vent of dust or buildup to ensure moisture is not trapped in your bathroom, which can lead to mildew or mold buildup.
Soothing Scents
Essential oil diffusers or lavender bundles in the shower smell incredible, mirroring nature’s sensory experiences. Try tying eucalyptus in your shower, releasing a minty, relaxing scent once the steam and humidity rise.
Styling with Biophilic Design in Mind
You don’t need a significant renovation to bring the benefits of biophilic interior design into your home. Wise styling choices can go a long way.
Incorporate Natural Forms
Curved lines, imperfect shapes, or patterns inspired by leaves, waves, or tree bark all show nature’s organic beauty. Look for these shapes in furniture, rugs, and light fixtures.
For example, a naturalistic style can be achieved by pairing an L-shaped couch or sectional in natural colors with a dark wooden coffee table and an earth-toned rug beneath.
Declutter and Let Spaces Breathe
Nature has rhythm and flow, and your space should, too. Avoid crowding surfaces and leave space around or between key features to create a sense of calm and openness.
Drawers or closets that blend in with the features of your room can be great places to put away essential items while keeping them close at hand.
Naturalistic Home Additions for Outdoor Access
A sunroom could be the perfect solution if you have a growing family or have always wanted a special place to retreat. This type of addition fits right in with naturalistic design principles, allowing access to sunlight, the breeze, and the outdoors while inside.
A sunroom or screened-in porch is the perfect combination of indoor coziness and the natural world’s beauty. Additionally, it can be a great place to host friends and family as the evening goes on without the annoyance of bugs.
At Quality Homes, our expert team has the knowledge and experience to handle all home additions and configurations. Whether you need an office, another bedroom, garage, screened-in porch, sunroom, or something different entirely, we can help!
Learn more about home additions in Rochester, NY.
