4 Cool Basement Remodels for Homebodies

Usually, the basement is for a game room, an extra bedroom, or perhaps laundry and storage, but with the recent rise in home electronics and home theaters, basement remodels are anything but boring. People are widening windows for more light, raising ceilings, installing wine cellars, and many other features. So if you like to stay home, you should think about some of these ideas.

So You Like Evenings at Home?
Who doesn't these days? Homes are so much more spacious and comfortable that after a tough day at the salt mines, the last thing you want to do is head back out again. But just because you like to be at home doesn't mean you have everything you need. Below is a list of the top 4 projects that homeowners who like to stay home are doing to better accommodate their living space.

1. Home Theater.
Certainly, this should come as no surprise that home theaters top the list. And for good reason. Home theaters are pretty versatile. They can be blow away projects, complete with stadium seating or rows of recliners (not to mention that kitschy popcorn machine), or they can be subdued areas with in-wall speakers and a big plasma screen TV. These systems are now coming ready for the gamer, the movie buff, or the sports nut. What are you?

2. Wine Cellar.
Not just for the collector anymore, the wine cellar is proof that you've arrived. For the couple who likes to stay home for a nice dinner, a wine cellar of any size is great way to house, collect, and appreciate wine in your home. This can also be a great showpiece when you invite friends over. Better still, you don't have to make the entire basement into a wine cellar; think about creating a small cellar in one corner of the basement.

3. Home Gym.
No more waiting in long lines after work at the local gym or getting up at 4am just to beat the rush. Equip your basement with the kinds of machines and weights that you prefer, mount a TV on the wall, and get back into shape! You won't believe how much easier it is to work out when you don't have to get all dressed up, drive across town, and only do the exercises where the machines are open. Plus, you can watch whatever television programs you prefer. A great idea for your basement space.

4. Game Room.
Many people love the idea of a pool table or an old retro video game like Pac-Man or Galaga down in their basement. This is a great way to let off some steam in just the fashion that you want. Install a poker table for those weekend tournaments with the neighbors and maybe put in a bar so that you can entertain like you're supposed to in your own game room. If you have kids, set up a television and gaming system so that they have a quiet place to play.

The basement is one of the most versatile rooms in the house, so pick your poison. Think about what you want at home more and just go to it. The summer is a great time for this remodel because the basement can be a nice cool room to escape the summer heat.