Affordable Design Ideas for Brightening a Dark Basement

DIY expert Isabelle LaRue take on the challenge of transforming her dark neglected basement into an inspiring creative space. Get affordable design ideas for brightening a dark basement in this EngineerYourSpace video:

She always wanted a dedicated space for testing new design ideas and experimentation. This space – the basement – got a temporary makeover prior to renovation.

The walls were repaired and painted white to brighten up the space. A whitewash treatment on the shelving unit makes it blend in with the walls. Together with removing the security bars on the window, these changes alone made a big difference.

A removable wall panel was made from 1×2 furring strips abd two 4×8 sheets of 1/4-inch plywood that were cut into sections of different widths. The panel, which measures 78 inches wide and 8 feet tall, was built in sections, with the 1×2 strips screwed in from the back.

A 3-inch gap in the panel allowed installation of a remote controlled LED light strip with double-sided tape; at the bottom of the panel, the wires run along the bottom, come out at the side and are plugged into the outlet. A corrugated plastic sheet covers the gap.

In lieu of carpet tiles, dark gray floor mats from IKEA were laid down over the original carpet. White modular cushioned benches provide both seating and storage. The space is personalized with handmade accessories including striped curtains and barn doors on the shelving unit.