You don’t have to get a headache when thinking of basement bar designs. Some design suggestions can be so complicated that you may not know exactly where to start with your plan. If all you want is a simple but relaxing set-up, you may not need to go beyond the basic elements of a bar design.

Bar Counter

It should be obvious to anyone that the most important element of a basement bar is the counter. This is where drinks, food and stimulating conversations are served so it is crucial to get a bar that will suite your preferences. There are a couple of different kinds of bar counters. Some are made purely of wood while others can have wooden bodies and granite, marble or plastic counter tops. Bars can be secured permanently on the ground. You also have the option though to build or buy a movable bar.

Seats

Your choice of seats is extremely important because it directly affects the comfort of bar users. Some seats are high stools while others are high seats with arm and back rests. Stools may be able to help you save space. Seats with rests however can help users relax better. Classic seats can have bare, hard tops but you can also choose to have padded seats. Regardless of the type of seat that you settle for, its important to make sure that seat height matches the bar height.

Sinks and Stoves

Some basement bar designs incorporate mini kitchens installed behind bars. The most essential kitchen elements are sinks and cooking tops. Be careful though. You need to find out first if your basement can actually safely accommodate drainage pipes and stoves. Check too if you are about to break building codes before messing around with basement pipes, gas connections and electric wirings.

Storage

Possible basement bar designs should always include storage. Typical storage elements include under counter shelves, wall shelves and overhead cabinets. Appliances like coolers, refrigerators and ice bins are also important storage elements. Do keep in mind though that some of these elements may be sources of fluids or moisture. If you do not have a sink with drainage pipes, using and cleaning these elements can get a bit messy.

Decorations

Basement bars are just not the same without a theme. You can effectively convey your chosen theme through decorative elements. A sports inspired theme is probably the most popular idea of all. You can create this look by hanging balls, bats, trading cards or framed jerseys. Some themes may also focus on specific periods. Checkered seat covers for example may effectively convey the look of a six decade old bar. Of course, many homeowners do not choose specific themes and go for general modern looks. You can enhance the appearance of a metallic bar and matching seats with minimal decorations and bright lighting.

These four basic elements of basement bar designs are all you need to have a functional bar. You can at least set up a basic bar before you consider adding extra elements in the future.

Not all basement designs are good for your basement. Before you pick an idea to execute to transform your basement into livable space, you need to go over four major considerations.

Budget Setting

Lets face it. Financial constraints can seriously hamper your ability to accurately and properly implement a basement design. Unfortunately, it is never easy to arrive at an accurate estimate of remodeling costs. One thing is certain though. Full remodeling does not come cheap. If you plan to have a beautiful and safe place that you can enjoy for years with family and friends, you should be prepared to spend anywhere between $30,000 and $75,000. Of course remodeling can cost well over $100,000 for folks who can afford to spend more. In setting up a budget, some factors you need to consider are contractor expertise, material choice, floor shape, basement problems, labor cost and extra features.

Planning

You cant just rattle off a serious of features that you would want to have in your basement. Doing so can easily lead you back to having a disorganized storage room. The secret to creating basement designs that you will enjoy is to plan. Unless you have to create a general family room, you should do your best to limit your design to specific themes. You can for example plan specifically for a sports bar, laundry room, bedroom or office. Once you hit on the specific theme that you would want to implement, it will become easier for you to shop for materials, equipment and furniture that are supportive of your theme.

Problem Resolution

You can’t create effective basement designs without first identifying possible obstacles to its implementation. Identifying problem areas however is not as simple as it seems. This is especially true if you have a new house. You may be unable to spot early on if your basement is prone to moisture seepages and wall cracks. A good idea would be to give yourself more time to observe and look into each nook and cranny of your basement. You have to identify these problem areas and look for effective solutions before you can start creating your dream basement.

Implementation

Who will handle basement construction? Because remodeling a basement can be heavy on the pocket, many homeowners consider remodeling their basements themselves. This can be a sensible option if you know your way around work tools and if you have the patience to read and follow DIY instructions. If you have zero knowledge and aptitude in home improvement work, call a contractor instead.

Hiring a contractor is also sometimes a safer and more cost effective step. Contractor services are clearly expensive but if your basement has serious structural or moisture problems, you may be able to save more cash by getting an expert to solve the problems. Trying to solve them yourself can lead to more damage and more repair work.

You can’t just make basement designs leap off of paper. There are considerations that you have to mull over to make sure that you can effectively implement your plan.

A basement design should be simple enough. You only need to determine your preferences and interests. Then again, the best design depends much on the condition of your basement. Before you make any plans, find out which ideas can be implemented without a hitch on your existing space.

Bar

A bar is perhaps one of the most popular basement designs. Having a bar can be a good idea if you have high ceiling clearance. Sitting on a high stool can be uncomfortable for you and your guests if the ceiling is too low.

A wet bar is also an ideal option because you have unlimited access to water. You can make drink and food preparations faster and you can clean up on the spot. This is only a good idea though if you have the right plumbing connections. Otherwise, you have little choice but to go for a dry bar.

Family Room

A family room is the safest basement design or idea to go for. You dont have to follow a strict thematic requirement because you are most likely more interested in adding a little something for everyone. Do take note though that you have to take special care to make basements safe for kids of all ages. A family room may not be suitable if your basement is prone to moisture problems. Molds and mildew that can form as a result of the presence of moisture can cause health problems to anyone. They can however be particularly difficult to deal with when small kids are the ones affected.

Audio-Visual Room

An electronic entertainment center is another popular basement design idea. The basement is an excellent spot to kick back and relax in with a bottle of wine and a good movie or some classical music. Keep in mind though that some basements have limited wiring and outlet set-ups. If you have to use multiple electronic devices all at one time, you may have to spend some cash on rewiring. Take note that this may further require you to hire an electrician to ensure that you dont break any legal codes.

Laundry Room

A laundry room may not be very dramatic or relaxing. It is however a highly functional spot that every home needs. If you plan to actually do the laundry and ironing in the basement however, you have to check if you have the right drainage and wiring system. Again, if you have to rework an existing system, you may need to hire experts to do the work for you.

Bedroom

A simple bedroom is perhaps the least complicated of all design ideas to implement. This doesn’t mean though that it does not have its own challenges. If you have a bedroom, you may have to look into basement bathroom ideas. The challenge here is to make sure that your basement can accommodate additional ventilation duct work and plumbing work.

Picking a basement design is not as easy as figuring out your preference. You also need to take existing basement conditions into consideration before deciding to implement a design.