From Drab to Fab: Basement Ceiling Makeover Ideas
Many families are finding that the idea of moving house is prohibitively expensive and that to create a new room in either the attic or the basement is the perfect solution to the problem. The new room can be used as a bedroom, home office or extra living space. The walls and floors of the basement will have top priority during the conversion, but many forget the basement ceiling which is like a large blank canvas that can be used to bring character to the new space and a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Here we bring you some clever ideas that will transform what is probably a ceiling that has only been roughly finished and almost exudes an industrial vibe to the space – fine if that is your style, but there are great ways to give your ceiling a more finished look, introduce style and – at the same time- add value to your home.
Get it covered!
Covering the ceiling can conceal any faults and boost the level of insulation and sound proofing. There are several options to choose between:
● Wood
Wood panelling or bead-board is a popular material to use as it introduces a warm atmosphere into any space. There is a wide choice of different coloured woods to choose from and the shade you choose will alter the character of the room. For example, darker woods will make the space feel smaller and elegant, whilst lighter woods add a warm and inviting ambiance.
● PVC panels
These are a popular choice as they can make a darker basement feel lighter and brighter as they reflect much of the light in the space. Using PVC panels has the added bonus that if the basement gets a little damp, they are 100% waterproof so they can never get mouldy.
● A false ceiling
If your basement ceiling is high or you need access to any pipework, having a false ceiling installed is a good solution. A grid system is the usual method used and its lower side is covered with lightweight tiles that can easily be moved or replaced.
● Plaster or Drywall
Applying plaster or drywalling to a ceiling will take time, but the result will be a nice smooth and finished surface.
● Ceiling tiles
There are ceiling tiles available in all sizes, colours and materials to suit everyone’s taste and budget. They are quick and easy to install using adhesive, but it is important to line the ceiling first so that the tiles can be attached well. To upgrade and add style and elegance to the space, there are some gorgeous decorated tiles on the market – even including hand-painted ones. Of course the skies the limit with some of the price tags!
● A coffered ceiling
This is a ceiling design that features the installation of recessed panels – often with decorative trim or moulding, fixed in a grid pattern. This architectural feature adds both depth and visual interest to the ceiling space.
● Wallpaper
If the ceiling is in good condition, wallpaper can be used to add colour, pattern, or even a scenic view to the ceiling.
● A coat or two of paint
If the ceiling is in good order and/or funds are limited, painting the ceiling is quick, effective and the cheapest option of all. White paint is the classic choice as it will make the ceiling clean and bright. If there are pipes across the ceiling, paint these white too so that they blend into the rest of the ceiling. If the ceiling is beamed, the wood can be either stained with wood stain for a natural look or the beams can be painted to complement the colour scheme of the room. Alternatively, the beams can be painted black to contrast with the white ceiling – Tudor style.
After the ceiling has been given a well-deserved makeover, the final step is to introduce a ‘wow’ factor to your new basement space by adding a lush artificial greenery garland or two! The Bloomsart mixed greenery garlands are the perfect choice as they are made using the finest materials to look as realistic as possible. Each garland measures 1.2 metres (4 feet) in length and features different types of greenery in different textures and realistic shades of green. The garlands are light, durable and flexible, making them easy to install and they definitely will enhance your basement space. The garlands are perfect to attach along ceiling beams as their trailing leaves will enhance the ambiance. Alternatively, garlands can be attached along one wall at the point where the wall meets the ceiling, or a garland can be bunched up into a luxuriant cluster to be pinned just below the ceiling in one corner to make a striking focal point.
With our clever ideas, you will find that you can convert your basement area into an inviting new space that everyone will enjoy…
