Need Help Updating Basement

13 years ago

last modified: 13 years ago

I just moved into my first home and the previous owners already finished the basement and repainted. I'm 26 and would like to make the room have a little more of a modern man cave kind of feel.

They did a great job finishing the basement and there is virtually nothing wrong with it, with the exception of the original tile ceiling, but I would like to make it more my own style. The bar is at the bottom of the stairs and is made from on old shuffle board table and the wood on the entertainment center, mantle, trim and doors are oak and its very nice, but I feel like I would like something that stood out a little more.

I was thinking about changing the fireplace surround slightly by painting the wood and wall surrounding and possibly replacing the tile. The carpet will stay for sure, but I would like to heard any suggestions on how to change the look.

Also I have a sectional couch which will be in this area, and besides the TV all the other items have been removed from the entertainment area and walls except for the TV. Starting from scratch.

Thanks.

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Comments (6)

charleee
13 years ago
The paint behind the fireplace doesn't exactly scream man-cave. If I were you I would paint it black, it will blend nicely with the tv and components. Please lose the mirror.
feeny
13 years ago
If you are going for "man cave" then you should definitely keep all of the natural woodwork, including the mantel. But I think a change in paint color is a good idea. That green makes no sense with the rest of the room (and I agree with Bobbi that the mirror doesn't either), and the beige walls that seem to match the carpet seem a bit dull to me (but not problematic like the green). I'd also probably paint over the monogram on the bar (unless you like it, in which case just ignore my comment). You didn't mention the color or fabric of your sectional. Before suggesting wall colors, I'd like to know more about the sectional. But I'm leaning toward a darker palette on the walls to achieve the "man cave" effect.
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charleee
13 years ago
Also, your crown molding seems unusually small, maybe you could take it down and add new with more weight.
austinkline
Original Author
13 years ago
The mirror and the other items on the shelves are gone, I removed the monogram right after moving in as well. My sectional couch is a charcoal/grayish color and the material is micro-suede. I haven't taken any recent pictures since I moved in last week, but I will when I get home from work tomorrow.
feeny
13 years ago
last modified: 13 years ago
Ooh, yes--a gray sectional. I like the sound of that. That means you can have a nice palette of grays as a possibility for the walls--maybe even a charcoal gray with a touch of brown in it for the wall above the fireplace. Pictures of the sectional in the room would be helpful in nailing down more specific color suggestions, however.
PRO
Custom Storage Solutions
13 years ago
This is a very nice space to start with. I suggest a theme man cave. So, what is your passion? Do you like sports or have a favorite team. You could do some really cool things with the bar, and in most man caves, this is a focal point. Modern is a good look, but not with wood. You can also do much more with the walls, something different other than painting such as wainscoting with a metal material, maybe diamond plate or a corrugated metal. This works well in basements and also reflects any lighting you may include such as a neon sign. No man cave is complete without neon. You could also use some L.E.D. lighting under the bar top. Murals are a great way fill large areas of wall space. Do you have a budget for this space? It could take some time to complete so get some friends to help you.