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HOME TRENDS’ STYLE EDITOR SHARES
SOME FAMILY ROOM DESIGN IDEAS.
If you currently have an unfinished basement
in your home, you may literally be sitting on
a gold mine! You can build equity by turning
your basement into livable space. Here are
some tips to maximize the potential of your
basement and increase your property value.
INCREASED SQUARE FOOTAGE If your home
is more on the cozy side, a family room that
can be enjoyed by all and the addition of extra
bedrooms and bathrooms are definitely the way
to go.
LEGAL BASEMENT SUITE If local bylaws
permit, the best use for your basement is
putting in a rental suite. Basement suites provide
affordable housing and can help pay for your
mortgage. They create an immediate revenue
stream for you and future buyers which will
translate into a boost in your home equity.
IN-LAW SUITE Many millennials are opting
to skip the starter home and are living in their
parents’ basement until they can afford the
down payment on a more permanent home
with greater value. The aging population is also
increasing and an in-law suite is a great way to
allow our elders to age in place and to mitigate
some of the costs.
Photography by Jason Hartog
www.jasonhartog.com
SEATING Family rooms need adequate seating for reading, relaxing and hosting movie nights. In
this space, I chose an oversized sectional and complemented it with a side chair and a modern
rocker. When arranging your seating, be sure to also add hard surfaces such as a large coffee table
and side tables to hold snacks and drinks.
PERSONAL TOUCHES Large scale frames featuring artistically taken family photos make a great
statement over a sofa and are a great alternative to a gallery wall.
ACCESSORIZE ME Don't shy away from accessories in a family room. Find a way to incorporate
family treasures, bowls and lush throw cushions to give the space an elevated look.
TO SERVE AND PROTECT A high quality area rug goes a long way by protecting your valuable
hardwood floors. Choose a subtle color in an interesting pattern (to hide possible stains) for a
beautiful, timeless look. - Text by Jo Alcorn
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CANADIANHOMETRENDS.COM
ENTERTAINMENT SPACE If your
neighborhood includes more luxurious homes,
consider making entertainment the focus of
your newly renovated space! Recreation rooms,
media rooms, home gyms, wet bars, and even
wine cellars are found in many high-end new
construction. You may also want to consider a
smaller suite for guests or a nanny.
Touring open houses in your neighborhood,
watching design shows and reading magazines
will help inspire and educate you. Of course,
working with the right real estate, renovation, and
design partners will ensure the seamless transition
of your basement from dungeon to dream space.
- Text by Karina Strachan, LHPrestige Team, www.lhprestigeteam.com