An Adult Escape

As a blended family with five kids, the owners of this home needed more space and wanted to update their dark and dingy basement. Initially, the clients thought the remodel would revolve more around their kids. However, once the design team proposed renderings of how sophisticated the reinvented space could be, the couple switched gears and invested in elements that would draw fellow adults downstairs.

The project team’s challenges included getting the stairs up to code and adding an emergency egress. To address these issues, they rebuilt the lower half of the staircase with railings on each side and constructed two exits that maximize light, symmetry and safety. With some additional engineering, the design team was able to expand the footprint of the finished space, allocating unfinished square footage to a powder bath and a gym without sacrificing storage.

Now finished, the renovated space is an ideal grown-up hideaway. The walls, trim and ceiling are covered in Lichen—a mid-aged green by Farrow & Ball—to create the perception of taller ceilings. Details like Lutron plate covers, Buster + Punch light switches and pop-up power receptacles on the bar help disguise the outlets, while “stadium lighting” in the stairwell provides an elegant yet well-lit entrance. Nearby, a custom-built entertainment center with a gas-burning fireplace and ample seating occupies the main space. The opposite side features an eating area and a dry bar, which showcases custom white-oak cabinetry with brass hardware, two beverage refrigerators and brass-mesh upper cabinets that hint at the owners’ glassware collection. Granite countertops and an antique mirror backdrop—accented by brass-and-leather sconces—finish off the space.