The basement has never really been finished and used for a specific purpose. Other than occasionally serving as storage space, it mainly remained empty. Now is the time to think about converting the space into a functional apartment. Consider these tips as a way to start creating a workable plan. From ideas for making the space functional to coming up with basement painting tips that work, the right approach will ensure those looking for a place to call home will want to take a look. 
Come Up With a Plan for the Layout
There’s one question that should serve as the starting point. Fortunately, there are professionals who can provide the answer. How to make a basement apartment? Find a contractor who has a lot of experience with residential conversions involving basements. That individual will have lots of information that will make the planning a lot easier.
Even though you have a vision of how the space should look and function, are all aspects of that vision possible? The right contractor can examine the space and let you know what can and can’t be done. That allows you the opportunity to hear some other ideas that may work just as well as what you originally envisioned for the apartment.
Focus on the Placement of New Plumbing and Wiring
One thing you should think about early on is what needs to be done with the basement wiring and plumbing. Remember that the tenant will need outlets for lamps, kitchen appliances, tablets and other personal devices, and bathroom tools like blow dryers or electric shavers. By designing the layout early on, you will have a good idea of where those outlets, switches, and lighting needs to be positioned. Next to basement painting tips, sufficient plumbing and wiring is essential if you want to attract tenants who will be happy to rent the space for the long-term.
Decide What to Do With the Floors
Do you see the connection between flooring options and how to make a basement apartment? The space already has concrete flooring. Do you want to buff and polish it as a start? How about adding some type of stain or using a stencil to create a design? Maybe you just want to cover the concrete with tile or carpeting. Remember that the choice you make about the flooring helps determine how easy it is to choose other colors and how simple you make it to change the look and feel of the space from time to time.
And With the Walls and Ceiling
With this type of project, it pays to make the most of basement painting tips that help the space to seem larger than it happens to be. A good approach is to go with primary colors that are on the brighter side. Keeping them neutral also ensures tenants have more options when it comes to the colors they bring into the space. Remember that something like an ecru or eggshell white gives the space a clean look that forms the perfect background for a formal or a casual look.
What Can Be Done to Allow More Natural Light into the Space?
What about the connection between natural light and how to make a basement apartment? If the basement already has small windows near the ceiling, are they evenly spaced? Are there enough to allow sunlight into the basement during certain parts of the day? Even with plenty of ambient lighting, there’s something about a little natural light that makes a basement apartment seem more like a home.
Creating a Private Entrance
Your tenant would likely prefer a private entrance. That’s good for you too, since it means you don’t have to give the tenant a key to the home’s front door. A contractor can help with the placement of the entrance and maybe even design steps on the inside that include a closet underneath them. That utilizes the square footage more efficiently and also means the tenant’s comings and goings are less likely to disturb the family members.
There’s more to creating an apartment in the basement and lots of issues to discuss before the work gets underway. Talk with the contractor and make sure no detail is overlooked. Doing so will allow the project to proceed with fewer delays, and hasten the day when you can begin to seek a tenant.
Penguin Basements Renovations (Basement Contractors)
906 Magnetic Dr
North York
ON
M3J 2C4
Canada
416-633-7180
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
Speak Your Mind