1930s Basement Transformed into Luxurious Guest Space

This 1930s basement was transformed with subtle changes to the layout, a mix of bold patterns and materials, classic farmhouse with Indian-inspired design elements to create a space that fits this family, while also feeling open and welcoming.

Initially, this project addressed a basement water issue but transitioned to a whole home master plan that could be executed in phases based on our client’s priorities and desire to remain in the home throughout the remodel.

A CLEAR VISION

Understanding the client’s goal and intention for their home is about more than the surface-level ask. It’s the feeling they want from their home, and considering how the space can and will be used to the fullest.

Our client had a specific design requirement and consideration - belief in Vastu shastra, the ancient science of architecture. Our client wanted to incorporate as many principles of vastu shastra as possible in the design. This informed our design approach and priorities, with a focus on four areas: 1) functionality, 2) Vastu shastra, 3) construction feasibility, and 4) aesthetics. Beauty and aesthetics are important, but first and foremost, it’s about creating a functional space to align with the family and how they live.

“Homes and Such was invested in the outcome of our project,” shared Pallavi Sharma, Linden Hills homeowner. “They genuinely cared, going above and beyond to not only complete the project a month early because we had guests coming into town but exceed our expectations in every way. Working with Jyoti was not only easy but a lot of fun.”

OPEN-ISH CONCEPT

From addressing recurring water problems to integrating common eyesores seamlessly into the overall design, this basement transformed into a space the whole family (and their guests) love.

Like many 1920s homes in the Linden Hills area, the basement felt narrow, dark, and uninviting, but Homes and Such was committed to identifying creative solutions within the existing structure that transformed the space.

Subtle tweaks to the floor plan made better use of the available square footage and created a more functional design. At the bottom of the stairs, a bedroom was transformed into a cozy, living space, creating more openness with a central foyer and separation from the guest bedroom spaces.

On the other side of the stairway is a dreamy basement bathroom that mixes classic furnishings with bold patterns. Green ceramic tile in the shower is both soothing and functional, while Cle Tile in a bold, yet timeless pattern draws the eye. Complimented by a vintage-style vanity from Restoration Hardware and classic gold faucets and finishes, this is a bathroom any guest would love.

The bathroom layout remained largely the same, but the space was expanded to allow for a more spacious walk-in shower and vanity by relocating the wall to include a sink area previously part of the adjoining mudroom. With minimal impact to the existing plumbing, this bathroom was transformed aesthetically to create the luxurious experience our homeowners sought. Ample hooks for guests and little extras add subtle glam to an otherwise functional space.

“Strategic decision making helps us identify where to splurge and where to save based on the goals of our client,” notes Jyoti Ghugale, principal at Homes and Such. “We’re able to spend more where it matters most because Homes and Such is project-managing the entire process from design to construction and all of the details in between.”

AMPLE SLEEPING SPACE A MUST

Opening up the main area in the basement and changes to the floor plan resulted in two rear bedrooms that maximize sleeping capacity (a must for our client), while also allowing the most natural movement throughout the space. Custom doors throughout detract from the varying ceiling heights and add drama to the space, drawing the eye up.

The first bedroom was created using the former living space and offers maximum sleeping capacity. With two queen beds, this room offers everything guests need, complete with a custom, built-in nightstand that camouflages what was previously an unsightly, but necessary gas shutoff.

“This custom furniture piece is so perfectly suited for the space, you’d never guess it is serving another function in addition to being a beautiful night stand,” shares Pallavi, the homeowner.

This 1920s basement’s low ceilings and ductwork were seamlessly integrated throughout the space. In this bedroom, we were especially concerned with a small section of ductwork and how to integrate into the design. Lacking a closet space, a simple section of black pipe creates a natural spot to hang clothing, while also feeling cohesive with the overall design and use of pipe detail in common areas.

The second bedroom features more sleeping space, with custom doors (in place of existing bi-fold doors) that allow the closet to function better and a bonus door that blends into the design, while providing access to another basement necessity - the water shutoff.

A simple reorientation of the existing bed opened up the space and made it feel completely different. Bold wallpaper captures the homeowners’ design vibe and spirit while integrating existing pieces from throughout their home to complete the design and further capture the client’s style.

EMBRACING THE CHARM

“There are inherent elements of a 1930s basement that cannot be truly transformed (unless tearing down and starting from scratch) viz., low ceilings, even lower ductwork, and narrow spaces, but the secret sauce is embracing the character, history, and architecture of the home,” says Jyoti.

Creativity means embracing the charm and character of the space and home to maximize function and create a foyer area that feels more spacious than it truly is. Removing sheetrock from a hand hewn structural beam that had been covered for a century brought about the home's history in a way that no pricey reclaimed beam ever could. Adding shiplap and rustic tin captured a hint of the farmhouse feel the homeowners love and mixed with the subtle integration of pipe throughout, from the gas line running along the beam to the use of pipe as railing between the open stair feature and cozy living space, for a cohesive design.

Rustic charm softens and warms bold colors and patterns throughout. Mixed with the lines of the shiplap and classic color palette, global inspirations and Indian design elements can shine.

The renovation process can be challenging for a client, especially when continuing to live in the home. It is always our goal to minimize the impact to their everyday lives, all while working within the set budget, making the process feel easy and fun, and collaborating as little or as much as our client would like.

Selecting a remodeler for your home is ultimately about a number of factors, but especially fit. “The decision came down to two firms,” shares Pallavi.

“We loved Jyoti’s stellar presentation, energy, and positivity. She was the only woman we met with and the only person of color. It was important to us to support her as she builds her business. And we miss seeing her now that phase 1 of our project is complete and can’t wait for phase 2 with Homes and Such to begin.”

Our basement was typical of what you’d find in a 1920s home. Low ceilings, water problems, and lacking in the luxury and comfort we wanted to offer friends and family who visit from out of town.

Homes and Such was committed to creating a dreamy guest space that was both beautiful and functional, all while keeping our budget in mind and making the process easy and fun. Jyoti’s design expertise and construction knowledge simplified the process and detailed project management meant they finished a month early, just in time for our first guests to enjoy.

Not only is our basement a retreat for our guests; it’s now a space we want to use too. We doubled our sleeping capacity for those out-of-town guests and gained a larger bathroom that is both luxurious and inviting. Subtle changes to the floor plan added openness and the kids love hanging out here too … that never happened before.

-- Pallavi Sharma, Linden Hills homeowner

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