How To: Creating a Finished Basement Layout
A Guide from a Contractor and Interior Designer on How to Create a Layout Plan for your Basement Renovation
If you're considering a basement renovation, planning the layout is key to transforming your space into a functional, stylish finished basement. Follow this guide from a finished basement contractor and interior designer to help you create a basement layout that works for your needs.
1. Define the Purpose of Your Basment Renovation
Every homeowner has different goals for their finished basement. Start by defining the specific purposes you want your space to serve, whether it’s a private office, extra storage, or an open area for kids to play. Start by defining what purposes you need and then prioritizing the features you want. Keep in mind that not everything may fit, so prioritizing the essentials will be helpful to stay focused.
“Start with your needs, then prioritize your wants. A finished basement works best when its purpose—be it storage, play, or work—is clearly defined.”
2. Measure Everything
The first step in creating a new basement layout is to measure your existing space. Knowing your dimensions will help ensure that your design is realistic and that the renovation will be executed smoothly. Make sure to not only measure the wall lengths, but the ceiling heights too. Note that many Massachusetts towns, the minimum ceiling height for a finished basement is 6'8" from the finished floor to the finished ceiling.
When sketching your proposed layout, remember that framing for walls typically requires about 1" of space from the foundation. Be sure to account for this in your plan - most exterior wall framing uses 2x4" or 2x6" studs. Also, don’t forget to mark any critical elements like duct work, sump pumps, vents, etc. Marking these out can allow you to potentially incorporate these items into either your design or updates to be included in your scope of work.
“2304.6.2.2 Framing. Wood framing members, including wood sheathing, which rests on exterior foundation walls and are less than 8 inches (203 mm) from exposed earth shall be of naturally durable or preservative-treated wood. Wood framing members and furring strips attached directly yo yhe interior of the exterior masonry or concrete walls below grade shall be of approved naturally durable or preservative-treated wood.”
3. Create Different Basement Floor Plans
Whether you hand sketch different basement layout ideas on graph paper or use professional software like Chief Architect - Home Designer, Ashampoo Home Design or Floor Planner create some new layout options based on your existing measurements, while referring to your prioritized list of wants and needs.
Once you have a few possibilities, make sure to review them with your finished basement contractor or interior designer to make sure they meet building codes and requirements. Sometimes by creating a bunch of options, you can combine elements of each into the best layout option!
4. Additional Layout Considerations
Once you've created some basement layout options, consider these additional design details:
Existing Elements: We are are all on a budget, so keeping major plumbing, electrical and HVAC and structural elements can be instrumental to keep costs down. We all dream of an open basement without ceiling soffits and exposed columns, but sometimes it's not feasible. Look for ways to creatively disguise or work around these features to maintain a cost-effective design.
The Flow: Think of not only how you’ll use the defined use areas, but how you and your family may move around the space. While building codes typically require a minimum of 3 feet between areas like hallways or kitchen islands, I like to create a minimum of a 4’ space. This is just enough space for two people to comfortably pass each other and will avoid painful bottlenecks.
Storage: In all of my experience, I have never met a client who didn’t want or need more storage. Don’t forget to include design options for extra storage, whether it's a deep closet for toys, under-stair storage for seasonal items, or a pantry for extra supplies.
Line of Sight: Think about how people will be entering your space, what you want seen and areas you prefer to keep hidden. If you want to keep an eye on your children playing, for example, design the layout so that the play area is visible from the stairs. On the other hand, if you want certain areas, like an office or personal space, to be more private, tuck them away out of sight.
Lastly, if your basement includes a statement feature don’t you dare hide it! If you have a bar, fireplace, or feature wall make sure it's one of the first things people see when they enter, whether through the garage or stairwell.
By thoughtfully planning your layout for your finished basement renovation with these guidelines in mind, you’ll ensure that your space is both functional and enjoyable for years to come. Happy designing!
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