subject: Introducing More Light To A Basement Family Room [print this page] No one wants to spend time in any room that is poorly lit and lifeless, and that is especially true for a basement that is being used as a family room. Your choice of lighting, color, and furnishings will provide the pivotal design elements in the room that will determine whether or not the space supports your overall goal, and becomes the inviting place you were hoping for.
Making the Most of Your Windows with Mirrors
If you are lucky enough to have a basement that is partially visible from the ground floor, you will be able to benefit from the extra illumination. If not, you can help echo whatever light you do have by placing a mirror on the wall opposite a window, or by installing any natural surface that reflects light around the window itself. When you dress your window, be sure to maximize what you already have by using fabric that is not too heavy so it can filter the sunlight as opposed to blocking it out.
If you have a fireplace or bar area, any natural surface that casts or imitates light will help. This can be done by using mirrors, marble, or smooth surface tile that is brightly colored. Hanging crystal or metallic accent pieces or lighting fixtures will also echo the theme and provide more of an expansive feel.
Available Lighting Options
If you have the budget and the ability to withstand a renovation project, recessed lighting is one the best options available for improving lighting issues. The lights can be placed in exactly where they are needed and because they are installed into the ceiling, they are very non-invasive.
If you cannot afford a larger overhaul, and would like to have light that can be changed from high intensity to low key intensity depending upon the strength of the light bulb you use, track lighting provides the perfect alternative. It suspends from the ceiling and comes with the ability to shine each individual pod on high traffic areas within the room.
If you are looking to enhance your room by emitting a steady glow up along the vertical line of the room, think about placing smaller lights along the rim of the moldings, or wall sconces that can accomplish much of the same thing. This type of lighting is called accent lighting, and will create function as well as atmosphere.
Two more lighting options to consider are task and dramatic lighting. Task lighting insures that you have the necessary lighting available to work and have a high degree of visual enhancement, whereas dramatic lighting is all about the effect and mood you wish to create.
Enlarging the Area
In order to keep your basement area as uncluttered and expansive as possible, do not over accessorize and arrange all larger and smaller furnishings in such a manner that you visually have as much room to move around as possible. Create a makeshift storeroom or utility room by sectioning off the area with a colorful curtain or room divider.
Make the Right Color Choice
In order to continue to try and brighten the room at every turn, the walls, flooring, area rugs, and smaller accent pieces such as wall art, fabric choice, and pillows should all be chosen from the most vivid colors on the color wheel. Keep your eye turned towards yellow, green, and blue shades that are intense and dazzling.
by: Jeanelle Deppner
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