If you are done using your basement as a dump – somewhere to throw everything you don’t find useful in the house – but you don’t have the heart to throw your stuff away, converting your basement into a usable space is ideal.

If you’ve decided you want to turn your property’s basement into a useful space, which not only makes it more functional but also adds value to your home, we have nine ideas for basement conversions that can’t fail to impress.

Read on to discover the best cellar conversion ideas, and to learn how to maximise your underground space.

1. Gym

If you’re a fitness fanatic or just hate going to the gym every day, then why not bring the gym to your home? With a basement gym, you’ll save thousands on gym membership every year.

Moreover you won’t worry about hygiene, as you won’t need to share your equipment with others. There are tons of benefits to having a home gym, including working out at your own pace without worrying about scheduled gym timings.

The best thing about converting your basement to a gym is that you won’t have to invest too much money for the conversion. You have the option of either starting with a complete gym set or just a few essential pieces of equipment.

2. Music Studio

A basement is a perfect place for a music studio, because it is easier to soundproof a basement than other parts of a house.

This is especially true if you have a high ceiling, allowing for wonderful acoustics. A basement studio allows you to disconnect from the world and focus entirely on creating musical masterpieces. You can play instruments for as long as you like without annoying the neighbours!

3. Cinema

If you want the perfect cinematic feel at home, converting your basement into a cinema is a fantastic idea.

If your basement doesn’t let in much light, then converting it into a cinema would be an ideal option, because you wouldn’t have to pay extra money for lightproofing your cinema.

With your own basement cinema, you can invite friends over and enjoy cinematic surround sound and high-resolution 4K display at home at any time of the day, and on any day of the week.

4. Underground Parking

Parking is always a plus! It’s not only the ultimate solution to the limited parking space in front of your house, but it also adds value to the property. If you are worried about having limited space in your basement, you can extend parking space by a double-tier lift, and park two vehicles in the same place instead of a single vehicle.

5. Bedrooms

Basement into bedroom - PhotoThis conversion idea might sound a bit boring, but if your primary goal is to add value to your property without spending too much on the conversion, then you should invest in converting the basement into bedrooms.

Houses are usually valued on the number of bedrooms they have; each decent-size bedroom can add thousands to a property’s value.

You can make one or more bedrooms depending on the amount of space available, or you can even convert the basement into a large studio apartment or annexe.

6. Utility Room

Okay, so we’ll be the first to admit a utility room isn’t the most exciting of cellar renovation ideas. But it is one of the most practical and popular cellar conversion ideas in the UK.

While it might not be as glamorous as an underground cinema or personal gym, a utility room adds extra space that can be used for washing machines and tumble dryers, can be used as a pantry, or as a simple storage area.

An added utility room not only makes your home more practical and easy to live in, but it will free up space above ground that can be turned into more exciting rooms. As a generic conversion idea, a utility room also makes your home more marketable in the future and increases its value.

7. Home Office

With remote work becoming more popular, home offices have become increasingly sought after by professionals. A home office is one of the best cellar conversion ideas, and it’s an excellent way to build a workplace that’s secluded and separate from the rest of the house.

Your new home office can have all the equipment and tools you need to work from home. You can install a desk, ergonomic chairs and lighting that keeps you comfy while you work, as well as having plenty of space for televisions screens, computer monitors, printers and filing cabinets.

8. Playroom

Are the kids running you ragged in the living room? Have you run out of space for their toys or do you just need some peace and quiet in the afternoons? Then why not consider turning your cellar space into a playroom?

A playroom is a great use of your basement, and it’s a useful place to store your kids’ toys or to set up their PlayStation. Basements are easily soundproofed, and that means the children can be as loud as they want without disturbing the adults upstairs!

9. Wine Cellar

A wine cellar is a simple concept, but in our opinion it’s one of the best basement conversion ideas. You can keep your household and guests happy with an endless supply of wine that’s easily accessible, and easily topped up when running low.

A wine cellar is the perfect way to convert small basement cellars into a useful space, and it can be as easy to complete as installing wine racks against the walls. Of course, if you take your wine seriously, you can add modifications that allow for temperature control to keep those vintages in the best possible condition.

Other Ideas

It all starts with an idea. Music studios, gyms and home offices are just the start; there are so many more basement renovation ideas to inspire your new cellar conversion. You can create an underground kitchen, art studio, entertainment or party hosting venue, and so much more.

Some people may also look at using the space within the basement to create a swimming pool or transform it into a self-contained flat. With enough space and budget, most things are possible.

Contact Danford, Brewer & Ives to Make Your Basement Ideas a Reality

At Danford Brewer & Ives we’re basement conversion experts. With many successful projects completed, we’re the perfect partners for anyone looking to have a basement conversion.

To discuss your plans further, simply contact DBI and book an appointment for one of our site surveyors to visit you and run through some options.