What’s the best way to design and decorate a scandinavian basement?
The basement, often overlooked, holds immense potential to enhance your living space. With the right layout and design, this subterranean level can become a multifunctional area that accommodates storage, leisure, and work or hobby pursuits. From a cozy home theater to a spacious workshop, the possibilities are endless!
Whether you're in the process of a basement remodel or looking to makeover your existing one, here's how to plan your basement design for maximum utility and enjoyment:
- Paint or Wallpaper: Select a color or pattern that sets the desired mood for the basement and complements the scandinavian style you want to achieve. We are partial to covering walls, ceilings, and trim in a uniform paint color to create a cohesive look. Or consider an accent wall to serve as a focal point.
- Space for Pursuits: Define areas for your interests, whether it's a workshop for DIY projects, a studio for arts and crafts, or a home gym. Consider the spatial requirements of your hobbies and how the basement can accommodate them.
- Storage Solutions: Basements are ideal for storage, but organization is key. Incorporate shelving units, closets, and cabinets to store seasonal items, tools, and equipment. Ensure that your storage solutions are moisture-resistant to protect your belongings.
- Entertainment Area: If space allows, designate an area for entertainment, such as a home theater, game room, or lounge. Comfortable seating, proper lighting, and acoustic considerations will make this space a favorite spot for family and friends.
- Utility and Maintenance: Reserve a section for utility purposes, such as laundry, HVAC systems, and water heaters. Ensure easy access for maintenance without compromising the aesthetic and functional aspects of your basement.
- Decorative Lighting: Combine task, ambient, and accent lighting for a layered lighting scheme. Consider the placement of lighting fixtures to eliminate shadows and evenly light the space. Dimmer switches can adjust the mood.
By carefully planning each section of your basement, you can create a space that not only enhances your home's value but also your quality of life. If you need an extra hand in your design process, check out our step-by-step guide on Basement Design.
How do you select a color palette for a basement?
Choosing the right color palette for your basement is an exciting (and fun!) process. Incorporating color (or the lack thereof) into a space will dramatically influence the mood and aesthetic. While it may be tempting to hit up your local hardware store to buy a gallon (or two or three) of paint, and go to town, the planning process is an important step. No one wants to repaint a room once the furniture is in. So, here’s the best way to think about incorporating color into your space:
First, set the mood: Before deciding on your color palette, think about the mood or atmosphere you want to create in your basement. Yearning for a calm and serene environment? Or perhaps a vibrant burst of energy? Different colors evoke different emotions, so choose hues that align with the desired mood or vibe of the room. Warm-toned colors (reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks) can make a space feel warm, inviting, and cozy. Cool-toned colors (greens, blues, purples, grays, and most whites) can make a room feel grounded, calming, and clean. But, using too many warm colors can make a room feel closed off, and too many cool tones in one room can make a space feel cold and unwelcoming. Neutral colors (blacks, whites, and browns) add a sense of sophistication and professionalism to a space.
Then, choose a color scheme: Now for the fun part! Once you’ve selected the mood, you can start to build your color palette. Take into account existing furniture and decor elements. Choose colors that complement or skillfully contrast your furnishings to create a cohesive look. A handy tip to a cohesive color story? Use the 60-30-10 rule as your guide. The dominant color (60%) sets the tone, the secondary color (30%) adds depth, and the accent color (10%) brings a pop of interest. Your dominant color in your color palette may be the color you choose to paint your walls or the color of a large area rug. Your secondary color may be used for upholstery or statement furniture. And for that final touch, the accent color brings a spark and is usually found in artworks, cushions, or decorative pieces. If you’re going for a monochromatic color scheme, consider the 60-30-10 rule in terms of shades of color.
Finally, find balance and contrast: Once you’re ready to start applying color in the basement design with paint or decorative touches, achieving the right balance between colors in your color palette is crucial. Consider the visual weight of each color and distribute them evenly throughout the space. Neutral colors are often paired with brighter accent colors to contrast a space. Pairing complementary colors (opposites on the color wheel) or juxtaposing shades of light and dark can enrich your design with depth and complexity.
While some colors are more popular than others for certain rooms or design styles, pick a color palette that feels right to you. Interior design is all about self expression. You do you. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to express your unique style. Want more interior design color tips? Check out our free online interior design course on Color Theory.
How do you pick a design style for a basement makeover?
Picking an interior design style for your basement is a personal and immersive journey. It starts with introspection and an exploration of your aesthetic preferences, daily habits, and the overall ambiance you wish to create. We recommend the basement style match nicely with the rest of your house. Consider the architecture of your home, the flow of natural light, and how the space is used to ensure the design style not only looks appealing but also serves your needs effectively. The goal is to create a space that feels inviting, comfortable, and uniquely “you”.
There is no right or wrong way to define your style. Start by gathering ideas and inspiration. Identify what colors, moods, and materials you are drawn to. Are you drawn to the clean lines of modern design? The warmth of rustic charm? The rich textures of bohemian flair? Or the sleek functionality of minimalism? Your chosen style should resonate with your personality and make your space feel like a true extension of yourself.
There are dozens of design styles. One style may speak to you the most and you’ll be ready to go all in (do it!). If not, mixing elements from different styles can yield a unique, eclectic look that’s distinctly yours. Need some help defining your style? We created our own design style quiz to help you learn more about what you gravitate towards in design. The result is like the perfect blend of your personality and home. Take the quiz and your Spoak Sign be your inspiration.
Once you know the design style you want to achieve for your basement makeover, the fun begins! You can start planning out your color scheme and decor ideas.
What materials and home decor should I use to achieve a scandinavian basement design?
Scandinavian interior design is known for its simplicity, functionality, and connection to nature. Scandinavia most commonly refers to Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Renowned for its minimalist aesthetic and clean lines, it is deeply rooted in the Nordic principle of creating light-filled, airy environments that evoke a sense of calm and comfort.
To achieve a Scandinavian basement, start by cultivating an atmosphere that feels open and bright. Opt for a soft, neutral color palette that includes shades of white, beige, and gray to serve as a tranquil backdrop for your space. White walls not only amplify the natural light but also create a canvas for adding depth and interest through texture and subtle contrasts. Incorporate natural materials like light wood, leather, and wool to create a cozy and comfortable environment. Scandi furniture is elegantly simple and designed with both form and function in mind (and yes, Ikea has brought this Swedish design principal to the masses).
Decor in a Scandinavian home should be understated. You may be familiar with the concept of Hygge, a Danish word for a mood of coziness and comfortable conviviality (it’s commonly used to refer to Scandinavian design). This can be introduced through soft lighting, plush textiles, greenery, and personal touches that make your space feel inviting and lived-in. Floor lamps are characteristic of Scandinavian spaces. The Scandinavian style creates a serene and clutter-free space that's both modern and homely, reflecting the Nordic lifestyle's focus on simplicity and wellbeing.
