The Ryan Design Build & Renovations Inc. team worked overtime to come up with creative ideas for this project. The clients wanted more space, not only for their children, but for themselves as well. We made this possible by dividing the basement into separate areas for kids and adults. However, a sense of closeness was maintained through liberal use of glass French doors. Both parents and kids could do their own thing without feeling separated. For the children, there is a designated play area, complete with an arts and crafts station, a small library and a media center. The parents have their own “play area” – a media center anchored by a beautiful gas fireplace with a marble surround and custom built wood mantle. Hanging above the fireplace is a 50” Plasma T.V. The entire room is enveloped in sound from the Bose surround system.

The client's other main concern was that their new basement not look “like a basement”. This was accomplished by carrying architectural details down from the main house. The 6' x 10' hardwood landing at the bottom of the stairs matches the kitchen floor. The high end trim found in the main house, including crown molding, beadboard and the details of the main staircase were duplicated in the basement. Even the ceilings were given “upscale treatment” with high–end acoustical tile and recessed lighting. This being a full walkout basement, we were able to add Andersen windows and a slider to bring in natural light. The high end trim and windows make this basement look and feel like any other part of this home.

One of the more creative elements of this project was the custom built bar, fabricated on site. Ductwork was cleverly hidden in a soffit to replicate the bar below.