These Basement Floor Ideas Will Finally Help You Finish That Downstairs Reno
From basement ceiling ideas to lighting suggestions, we've covered almost everything related to your downstairs renovation, but we couldn't very well leave you hanging with the basement floor ideas.
The ground level is the lowest surface within your abode, and it requires special considerations depending on your space. First things first — you'll need to ensure that the basement is dry (find our tips for a wet basement here) with a smooth and flat surface for flooring material. Once that's ready, the sky's the limit; here are some basement floor ideas to get the ball rolling.
1. Stay sleek with wood.
For a basement that feels cohesive with the rest of your home, and not just like a dark forgotten space, add wood flooring. It's warm, welcoming, and cozy. Take note of this family-friendly basement game room by Waterleaf Interiors. The dark stained oak planks make the room less basement and more curated hangout.
2. Cover up with carpet.
Carpet is another comforting option for a cold basement with minimal natural light. Go with a crisp Scandi style, or add to the cocooning ambiance with something boho and patterned. Doreen at Art of Everyday Living layered her neutral carpet with a large Berber rug for extra plush points.
3. Play around with linoleum tiles.
If your lower level acts as more of a multifunctional space, you'll want to consider a basement floor idea that can handle anything. This contemporary basement playroom by Magleby is clad in black and white checkered floor tiles and complemented with colorful rugs. Whether the homeowner is swinging from the ceiling bars or settled on the sofa, the flooring works.
4. Keep it cool with concrete.
Concrete flooring is a modern option for your basement, and it will be especially appropriate if you're looking to create an industrial or rustic style. Rini Kundu Interiors created a calm and soothing setup in this basement hideaway by adding a textured rug and tonal furniture to the polished concrete floors.
5. Add a large rug.
A large rug can hide all manner of mistakes (not that this basement space by House of Hire Designs needs to cover anything) and will add an extra level of color and texture to your basement floor. Try a patterned Persian style or head straight for an extra-large jute or sisal option if you want to keep things simple
6. Bare it all with brick.
When a family decided to renovate the basement of an abandoned hospital for their home, design studio Loft Kolasinski helped them create an airy and open space. The team laid natural bricks on the previous floor, and the result makes this setup look more Mediterranean villa than German infirmary.
7. Go luxe with large tiles.
This basement bar setup by Amy Storm & Co. oozes sophistication, right? Using two types of floor tiles — black stone and large terrazzo squares — the space has been transformed into a luxurious setup that looks straight out of a downtown hotel.