Basement Nursery
ask an expert: decoratingcanada
(Jul.13.10)
We're expecting our first baby and renovating the basement for more space. Our bedroom and the baby's room will be in the basement. What colours and finishings will make our basement cheerful and cosy?
Tasha emailed us at expert@sweetspot.ca, and SweetHome decorator Kimberley Seldon answered:
Congratulations Tasha!
A new baby is certainly going to be a lovely addition to your home and family. But as you are already discovering, the little one comes with some pretty big needs, including a cosy spot for sleeping and plenty of room to play. The basement renovation you're planning sounds like it can meet all those needs.
Most of us (children included) thrive in bright, fresh, sunny environments. Creating that atmosphere in a typical basement takes some planning. Paint and fabric colours can help achieve these results. For example, unless proportions in your basement are generous, I would opt for a warm, pale neutral for walls. If you like a hint of yellow, you might try Benjamin Moore's Monterey White HC-27. This colour is sunny without being cloying.
The right flooring choice is critical to the equation as well. In general, a lighter colour on the floor creates a more casual atmosphere. In addition, if you are using a pale wall colour, the lighter flooring minimizes contrast in the room and optimizes the feeling of spaciousness. How about a lovely laminate floor? You can select an easy-to-install product like IKEA's Tundra in Oak or Antique finish. Adding patterned area rugs to key locations can provide noise absorption and a comfortable space once your baby is older.
Finally, look for ways to maximize natural light. If there is a window, provide a large mirror adjacent to it to amplify available sunshine. If not, you’ll need to rely on a variety of light sources such as pot lights, table lamps and floor lamps to create the cosy atmosphere you desire.
Best wishes,
Kimberley Seldon
Kimberley Seldon is a vibrant presence in the world of design. She appears regularly on the Home Shopping Network (HSN) in the United States with her own line of home décor products, Kimberley Seldon Home. Kimberley is Decorating Editor of Canada’s Style at Home magazine and author of 500 Ideas for Small Spaces.
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