It is not transformation Tuesday but it is almost Friday and that is something to celebrate! I’ve been a little quiet lately as I’ve been snuggled up with a newborn, but all new 2021 projects are heating up so now is a fine time for this cozy basement reno to finally have her moment on the blog.

I was so excited when Raina and Tim asked me for help with their much needed basement remodel. Reasons; A. They live in my hometown. (Score! More visits to the homeland!) B. Raina was on board for just about anything as long as we made space for Tims’ Minnesota Twins bobblehead collection. ;)

The Juba family purchased their beautiful home several years prior and were having trouble with a vision for their basement space. Their requirements were for a TV space, entertaining area, and a gaming room for the boys. Their original space was cold and dark and begged for purpose, light, and warmth. I couldn’t wait to dive in!

My first objective was to redirect the focal point of the living area to the fireplace. We tried to salvage as much of the existing fireplace in our first design concept. Unfortunately, this did not allow for as big of a TV as we would have liked so we moved to a new design concept that was centered on a scion electric fireplace. Luckily, the existing stone surround was veneer so with a little muscle power and expertise from Pilcher Construction, we were able to demo and frame up a new wall easy-peesy. The addition of built-in cabinets were my attempt at a home for the Twins bobbleheads and more storage. Lastly, I was simply thrilled when Raina jumped on board with my herringbone concept for the fireplace surround. So chic + clean!

We got to bring our friends from AUM Wood Products along for this project and they were incredible to have on the job. All of the built-in wood products you see are custom fit and a perfect compliment to this space. In addition, this is the second time I’ve used this fireplace unit from Fireside Hearth & Home. The best part, it burns purple and gold. Skol!

Corners are always awkward! I love utilizing every inch of a space as much as possible and this one begged for a built-in sitting nook. Whether for game night, a crafting corner, or a great place to curl up with friends and connect this custom piece was a perfect fit.

Did I mention that Raina was up for anything? I love when my clients give me creative freedom as it allows my imagination to work at its finest. We carried the shiplap from the fireplace to this stairway wall and completed the design concept with a built-in study desk for the boys. (I have a feeling that COVID 2020 allowed this to get plenty of use!) There is a hidden printer in the lower base cabinet and these beautiful Serena + Lily Riviera chairs were the perfect flare to this practical space.

The former back wall to this room was dark, hidden and simply forgotten. We made the most of the space by adding lighting and a custom kitchenette. To run water to this area was quite a task so Raina and Tim decided to do without. Honestly, the space works out perfectly for after school snacks, game day appetizers, or hosting friends and family.

Can we just show this wallpaper a little love! I love incorporating little elements of character with accent walls and surprise details to my spaces. Thanks to our friends at Armon Decorating for this beautiful wallpaper, the carpet, and kitchen flooring. Armon Decorating has been in business since I was a babes and they were simply awesome to work with on this project.

Organization was the name of the game for the Game Room. No pun intended! ;) We de-cluttered, re-organized, and simply crafted a clean and mature space for the boys to enjoy. The north wall of the room is a chalk board wall, easy for keeping score. While the Marquee lights were a steal I found from Junk Art Gypsyz. We rebuilt the stairway wall entering the living room to eventually offer the privacy and quiet available by separating the spaces.

How light and bright is our final reveal! I love that this is simply a basement space that was once untouched and now it is a cozy family space ready for a lifetime of memories.

A few of my favorite things;

1. Console meets snack table! So practical and such a great use of space. Work or snack while watching TV and still apart of the conversation. Genius!

2. Gray Owl is one of my favorite grays! You can see it here on the fireplace shiplap. Walls are Paper White by Benjamin Moore.

3. My obsession with herringbone patterns has been the highlight of 2020 in my little design world. This is one of my favorite applications of it.

Meet the Pros | Local Love!

Fireplace Demo + Construction | Pilcher Construction

Built-Ins, Mantle, Shiplap, Cabinets | AUM Wood Products

Carpet, Paint + Kitchen Tile | Armon Decorating

Electrical | Electric Service Company

Upholstery Sitting Nook | J&J Upholstery

Fireplace | Fireside Hearth & Home

Sofa | Slumberland

Photography | Makayla Rae Photography

Basement Reno

Moody Moss Bowls

Adventure Nursery