Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC
Architects & Building Designers

Duncan Avenue Basement Renovation industrial-basement

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Duncan Avenue Basement Renovation Industrial Basement, Cincinnati

Basement Media Room

URL: http://www.rda-architecture.com

Example of an urban underground white floor basement design in Cincinnati with white walls — Houzz

This photo has 49 questions

November 9, 2012

vilvoorde_style wrote:

What material is the floor?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

Typically basements range in cost from $25/sf up to $100/sf. I would rather not share specific costs per owner request. It depends on a lot of factors. The costly items that increase square foot cost are the bar and bathroom areas. Be careful using epoxy paint finish for floor. Get advice from your local paint supplier to make sure you use the right product based on your conditions. A concrete opaque stain/paint is another option you may want to look into.

2 Likes Save March 16, 2013 at 10:42AM

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Donita Rhodes

Epoxy isn't a good product for a basement floor due to moisture. It would peel off.

Like Save July 8, 2016 at 3:04PM

January 14, 2014

traceyadugan wrote:

Love the room. What are the various ceiling heights in this room?

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jessenonna

Would any dark color on the ceiling. i.e., brown or gray, work as well as the black?

1 Like Save August 21, 2014 at 10:29AM

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

I would generally say yes as long as it was in the darker range of that color.

Like Save August 21, 2014 at 11:54AM

November 3, 2013

Carrie Wadsworth wrote:

The crown molding against the ceiling - Hi, I am in the process of finishing my basement. I love your concept in this picture. I went to home depot to look at 2 x 2 kiln dried wood and its not the true 2x2 wood. The molding along the ceiling in your pictures looks larger than what i've seen at home depot. Is your molding in this photo along the ceiling true 2x2 or 1.5x1.5???

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Carrie Wadsworth

Thank you!!! You have been a lot of help!!!

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Theresa Hall

wall paint color?

Like Save March 15, 2017 at 7:32AM

October 29, 2012

colleenbh wrote:

What kind of paint is it and how did you apply it? Looks great!

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independenceco

Is the ceiling paint flat?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

I believe so. If not it is only one sheen higher. I don't have record of finish.

Like Save February 22, 2013 at 7:57AM

December 6, 2013

Melinda Ingalls wrote:

Need help for my small family room/ open to my large kitchen. - The space is a modern open kitchen/family room with high ceilings and a fire place at the far wall in the family room. Walls are cream color and I would like a warm feeling with more color and textures. I am thinking of buying a leather love seat with fold out foot rests and a comfy leather recliner to match. ( does anything like this exist?) I want a comfortable and lovely,easy to maintain environment for my husband and I and our company to relax in.

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sig123

lazy boy the best

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cage

famaliving.com

Like Save October 23, 2014 at 8:26PM

March 8, 2015

lindsayro wrote:

Did you cover the ceiling pipes with material before painting? - It looks like the pipes in the ceiling have been covered with special material to create a sleek / smooth surface. What are they covered with and what kind of paint did you use?

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Kelley Nancy

Susan, thank you for the great instructions. One question: if you wrap all the cables, wires, etc in Saran Wrap - after the black paint has dried won't they be more obvious and stick out?

Like Save May 23, 2015 at 12:40PM

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

I believe that Susan was only saying that you wrap specific items in saran wrap to protect them from the paint (i.e. water shut-offs and connections points). You would take the saran wrap off after it dries.

Like Save May 26, 2015 at 5:20AM

November 20, 2012

newbie1001 wrote:

Corrugated Finish - What was used here to case/frame the corrugated metal on the top (and I'm assuming the bottom as well)

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Andrea Camadeca- Miller

Were could one go to buy corrugated sheet

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

You would have to contact your local hardware store or lumber yard for availability. Sorry I can't be of more assistance.

Like Save September 30, 2013 at 6:09AM

June 11, 2014

Krish Radhakrishna wrote:

What about ventilation? - For such a fabulous conversion of what was basically a poorly maintained storage area, ventlilation is important. How can we improve the ventilation in the basement. How does cold and hot weather affect the basement if ventilation is inadequate?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

No digging we used existing.

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Amy Miller

Thank you for that information. We are just starting a basement renovation in our 1920's cottage and using existing floor, too. It's great to know from seeing your project that it can turn out so beautiful, light and spacious!

Like Save June 27, 2014 at 3:28PM

April 16, 2014

aannmackey wrote:

Does painting the ceiling a dark color close in the space? What color

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tracycfbrown

This is a BEAUTIFUL remodel.

1 Like Save July 30, 2014 at 7:39AM

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tracycfbrown

I bought the paint and then chickened out on this dark ceiling. I went all gallery white in my basement instead and it has a loft-like feel. I got frightened by the cozy-factor and was afraid it would accentuate the low lighting in the basement. I did use the paint (almost black) on my wooden stairwell into the basement and am very happy with that until I can afford to do the Roppe vinyl stair covering (pricey- $800 for 10 stairs) that they did in this remodel, which looks great.

Like Save October 15, 2014 at 10:02AM

December 11, 2012

independenceco wrote:

Basement ceiling paint finish - What finish is the paint, flat, eggshell, or semi-gloss?

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McClure Tables

Your basement looks great! Ever think about adding a game room or game area? If so, check us out for some awesome ideas. We would be more than happy to help you.

Like Save September 17, 2013 at 7:09AM

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debbauman1

Yes i love the ceiling - i have a 1950 home with low ceilings in the basement...how would the black painted ceilings look? Would they look ever lower? What is the Brand and color of the paint? thank you!

3 Likes Save December 22, 2013 at 8:01AM

November 14, 2012

rose155 wrote:

Where did the hanging wires go? Did they get painted, too? (Can you do that?) - I have wires hanging from the rafters in my basement ceiling, and would like to use this idea of painting ceiling and rafters....but then there's the wires... Thx.

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fourjeepin

Just did this earlier this week. My painter used spray cans of Kilz on the PVC water pipes. He said the paint will stick to everything else. We are so pleased with the results, I got started on another room in the basement.

Like Save August 11, 2013 at 2:42PM

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

Great. I am glad it is going well and that I may have been some sort of inspiration.

2 Likes Save August 12, 2013 at 6:22AM

December 17, 2015

EVR wrote:

Love the look - How many ceiling lights did you use for this space? I ask this only because I don't see any windows. Also, is there a bathroom and do you have any pics to share?

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Garrison Foundry Architecture + Decor

hello! what is the ceiling height in this space?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

The ceiling height ranges from 6'-4" at bottom of ductwork to 7'-6" at underside of floor joists. The floor slopes to drains so those are averages.

Like Save December 12, 2018 at 11:06AM

August 27, 2015

bemum wrote:

Dark Celing - Great room--- how high are the ceilings? debating using a dark color (vs white) in our own rather low basement, but am afraid it will seem even lower.

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wgcollier

Is that true even for normal, flat ceilings? I'm trying to decide between white walls and a nearly-black ceiling or dark grey walls and a very white ceiling in my basement. The ceiling is about 9 feet.

Like Save January 30, 2016 at 9:10PM

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

There is no set answer unfortunately. It depends on the specific space characteristics...amount natural light, volume of space, height, other materials, etc.

1 Like Save February 1, 2016 at 6:26AM

April 11, 2013

lauramcox wrote:

An alternative for carpeting staircase? - What are some choices besides carpeting.

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Mark Gorman

I am curious what brand / model of lights are being used, or was something attached that makes the flat panel? Thanks !!

Like Save January 20, 2014 at 1:41PM

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

Traditional can lights are used in a painted plywood panel secured between joists.

Like Save January 20, 2014 at 2:01PM

October 27, 2012

dfpartridge wrote:

How high is the ceiling? Are the vents and ductwork covered or just painted? Cool look!

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

Take a look at the other comments on other pictures and you will get all your answers. Thanks for comments.

Like Save November 15, 2012 at 6:01AM

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dfpartridge

Thanks!

Like Save November 15, 2012 at 6:40AM

December 21, 2012

fagano1 wrote:

any issues with sound upstairs/was anything done to deaden sound downstairs since the ceiling is exposed?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

No sound insulation was used to seperate the floors. There is a door that occurs at top of stair. Bedrooms occur on second and third floors so there was no real need to isolate sound. Floors overhead are hardwood as well.

Like Save December 21, 2012 at 9:18AM

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tuulahopp

what kind of paint did you use, did you just spray it before you got into anything else? does the paint hold up to the hot metal air ducts?

2 Likes Save January 12, 2014 at 4:40AM

November 16, 2012

Algowtag wrote:

Can lights? - It appears that you used can lighting installed between the joists. What material did you use to screen the cans (i.e. the square elements that are painted brown that spans between the joists)? Nice job!

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

Pretty simple...just painted plywood cut flush with bottom of joist.

1 Like Save November 17, 2012 at 6:30AM

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

Wagner Remodeling - Bill Wagner was the contractor.

Like Save November 19, 2012 at 12:45PM

November 14, 2012

cabinathome wrote:

love the couch! is it suede? where does it come from?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

The owner purchased this couch so I don't have record. Sorry.

Like Save November 14, 2012 at 10:36AM

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Christy Wells

Looks like Pottery Barn Teen.

Like Save January 12, 2013 at 5:18AM

June 12, 2016

Alexandra Nyman wrote:

What is the white material used to make the rough finish on the non-me - What is the white material used to make the rough finish on the non-metal walls? Was this done instead of drywall?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

The non-metal walls are actually stone foundation walls that have a plaster / waterproofing membrane applied.

1 Like Save June 20, 2016 at 5:33AM

October 14, 2015

knerl wrote:

Insulation-Sound Proofing - What do you do about Sound proofing from upstairs? Did you use any sprayfoam in the rafters?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

No sound insulation was provided / desired to separate from 1st floor. All the bedrooms occurred on the third floor.

1 Like Save October 14, 2015 at 2:22PM

October 12, 2015

oc22 wrote:

How much did the total project cost? - I would love to do something similar. Can you give a rough idea of the cost for this project?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

To protect my clients I don't state costs. Sorry. I would be happy to discuss some things through email.

Like Save October 12, 2015 at 1:15PM

June 1, 2015

giladmrs wrote:

Wall behing TV - Hi, what type of wall it is behind TV? Is there furnace behind it? Out basement has the same layout and needs to be finished. This basement is very tatsfully done!

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

It is a corrugated metal paneled wall and yes the furnace is behind. Other photos have questions/ comments that may be helpful.

2 Likes Save June 2, 2015 at 5:13AM

March 2, 2015

lethbrj wrote:

Ceiling height? - Can you tell me the ceiling height please?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

Ceiling information is posted and commented on in other photos if you want to take a look.

Like Save March 3, 2015 at 9:01AM

January 9, 2015

Kaili Kalafatich wrote:

Rug! - Where is this rug from?? It is exactly what we are looking for!!

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

Don't know sorry but I would guess it is a standard carpet with edging sized to fit space. Try a local carpet supplier in your area.

Like Save January 9, 2015 at 11:53AM

December 17, 2014

Glenn Campbell wrote:

Basement - How did you go about painting all of the ceiling components?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

Simply put...it was sprayed after being cleaned up.

4 Likes Save December 18, 2014 at 5:21AM

December 17, 2014

Glenn Campbell wrote:

Where is the couch from? - Where did you find this couch?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

That was the owners purchase and I have no record.

Like Save December 18, 2014 at 5:20AM

April 24, 2014

Laureen Haughey wrote:

Great Media Cabinet - Can you tell me the manufacturer? Thanks!

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

Not sure might be IKEA.

Like Save April 24, 2014 at 10:08AM

April 18, 2014

Deb S wrote:

How in the world are you so talented. - This is outstanding!

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

I have been blessed. Thank you.

4 Likes Save April 18, 2014 at 6:06AM

April 4, 2014

fynnigan wrote:

What color paint is the cement floor

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

I do not have record of floor paint color.

Like Save April 4, 2014 at 10:29AM

April 3, 2014

Deb S wrote:

Can you tell me the dimensions of the room?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

The media/ living area is about 12 ft x 13 ft.

1 Like Save April 3, 2014 at 9:46AM Thanked by Deb S

February 28, 2014

redpoint wrote:

Will the metal siding rust over time? - What is the life of the metal wall? Does it lose it's luster? Does it rust?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

It has a galvanized finish so no it will not rust unless it is exposed to moisture on a continual basis (i.e. outside). Usually even bare metal won't rust in doors if the space is conditioned correctly. To be safe though you can apply a clear coat to seal it and protect it (for bare steel that is).

Like Save February 28, 2014 at 6:41AM Thanked by redpoint

January 9, 2014

mgfox wrote:

Where can I find a round chair like the one shown?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

The owner actually re-upholstered this chair which was in her family I believe.

Like Save January 9, 2014 at 2:36PM

December 2, 2012

James Everington wrote:

What type of material is the wall behind the television?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

Corrugated metal. See other photos for more detailed description.

3 Likes Save December 3, 2012 at 6:49AM

November 25, 2012

lisa4ta wrote:

love the pillow in the chair! Where did you find it? Thanks!!!

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

That was purchase by the homeowner so I have no knowledge of where it was bought.

Like Save November 26, 2012 at 5:55AM

November 14, 2012

debbandy wrote:

Media Console - Can you tell me who manufactures the media cabinet? The ceiling treatment is inspired. Thanks for sharing!

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

I don't have info on the media console sorry.

Like Save November 15, 2012 at 5:56AM

November 14, 2012

lpaflas wrote:

Dealing with ceiling mechanicals? - I would love to paint my ceiling basement, however have run into difficulty with electrical inspection regarding what is allowed to be painted and what isn't allowed to be painted. Was this an issue for you and how did you deal with it? Thanks

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

It was not an issue to my knowledge or the contractor would have brought it to my attention. I would ask inspector to state/ identify what building or electrical code section/article limits the painting of work. If he can't state one then he should permit it.

Like Save November 14, 2012 at 10:34AM

November 1, 2012

jonstott wrote:

what paint color is the ceiling? did you paint the stairs the same color?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

Sorry I don't have the specification information on the black paint color used for the ceiling. The stair tread and riser material is a rubber product made by Roppe.

1 Like Save November 2, 2012 at 5:26AM

October 25, 2012

hlsalton wrote:

what is on the TV wall that makes it shimmer?

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Ryan Duebber Architect, LLC

It is corrugated metal (galvanized).

Like Save October 26, 2012 at 5:44AM

March 3, 2018

ninomcd wrote:

Basement looks fabulous - What did you use on the stairs and how did you finish, connect this material to the flooring on the top of the stairs?

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February 12, 2018

Mary McCabe wrote:

What color is the grey wall paint? What brand paint?

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August 19, 2017

smollloy wrote:

What specific color is the ceiling - Benjamin Moore is what I use.

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August 1, 2017

First Choice Remodeling & Development Grp wrote:

What a nice way to address a low ceiling - Simply just paint and trim out recessed canned lighting. Nice look for little cost.

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April 29, 2016

Jeff Marston wrote:

How did you get the idea to use a metal wall? - I absolutely love the modern style of this basement with the white walls and darker furniture. The corrugated metal wall was definitely a nice touch. My wife and I would love to do something like this when we have our basement remodeled. How did you come up with the idea for the metal wall? https://blakebuildingco.com/services.html

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August 17, 2014

housevsretirement wrote:

This is gorgeous! How is it heated? - Does the heat rise into the first floor more because the ceiling is not drywalled? I love the look of the bare joists painted, and it gives the feeling of more height in a ceiling with a low basement.

1 Like Comment

August 5, 2014

jaylenesafeway wrote:

Paint - What type of paint and what colour did you use on the ceiling ? Great job !

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June 25, 2014

nonnad5 wrote:

Needing ideas on expanding bedroom using a back porch

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April 3, 2014

Deb S wrote:

Again Love This! Can you share approx budget?

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December 21, 2013

1234nrg wrote:

Long hair shag rug - Where can i find a large alpaca rug

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March 29, 2013

npicotte wrote:

Fire considerations - Were there any changes made due to changing from unfinished basement to habitable space (fire rating, flamespread, etc)?

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What Houzz contributors are saying:

Becky Harris added this to Below My Houzz: An Inviting Basement With Industrial Edge

"My clients wanted something cool and not typical of suburban basement renovations," Duebber says. This worked to their advantage, as drywall ceilings and walls would have closed in the space and made it feel smaller. Plus, drywalling in front of foundation walls would have trapped moisture. Black painted rafters, ductwork and beams create the illusion of higher ceilings. "Painting the ceiling dark makes a huge difference psychologically," he says. "A coat of paint goes a long way."

Becky Harris added this to 5 Awe-Inspiring Basement Renovations

Duebber painted the exposed rafters black; they work well with the couple's contemporary tastes.

Mitchell Parker added this to HVAC Exposed! 20 Ideas for Daring Ductwork

The exposure method works even in spaces with low ceilings. In this basement lounge area, a jet-black duct system adds depth to an otherwise closed-in space.

Fred Albert added this to 11 Reasons to Paint Your Ceiling Black

7. To conceal a mess. It can be tough to hide all the ductwork in a basement ceiling. Covering it with drywall can rob you of precious headroom (not to mention money). An inexpensive solution is to paint the whole thing black. It won’t eliminate the problem entirely, but it’ll make the mechanics far less prominent without lowering the ceiling’s height.

Laura Gaskill added this to What's the Deal With Radon?

How to test for radon. The least-expensive option is to buy a test kit that you use yourself at home. These simple kits, which come in either a short-term (fewer than 90 days) or long-term (more than 90 days) version, are easy to use and are widely available at home improvement stores. Following the instructions on your kit, place the tester in the lowest living area in your home (the basement if you use it; otherwise the first floor) and leave it in place for the time indicated. Keep the tester away from drafts and heat sources, and keep windows closed and fans off in the area during the test period. Once the time is up, reseal the test kit and send it in — you should get the results within a few weeks.

Nicole Jacobs added this to Ideas for Partially Finishing Your Basement

Create an Industrial-Style Living Room1. Keep the ceiling exposed. This smart basement renovation reveals a key secret to enjoying a partially finished basement: Keep the ceiling open. We don’t all have the advantage of deep basements with high ceilings, and we need all the help we can get, height-wise. While there are some stylish drop-ceiling panels now available, keeping the ceiling joists open and painting them a bold color like black creates the illusion of depth, helping the ceiling to recede and become less noticeable. The added advantage is that your wiring is available to you without having to cut into drywall.Find a designer to help you partially finish your basement