3 Ways to Make Your Basement a Bright and Livable Space

Basements can have a negative reputation, being labeled as “dark” or “grungy”, which was the exact fear these homeowners shared with Normandy Designer John Long before beginning their project.

“They wanted the basement to house a guest room/office space and bathroom, but most importantly, they wanted it to match the aesthetic of the rest of their traditional style home,” says Long.  Three elements in particular that John included in the design played an immense role in making the basement feel like the rest of the house:

1. Incorporation of additional windows cut into the foundation wall to let in plenty of natural light, as well as transom windows to match the transom windows on the other levels of the home.
2. Reconfiguring the mechanicals to maintain a taller ceiling height.
3. Inclusion of abundant recessed lighting throughout the space to eradicate any concerns of the basement being too dark.

The final result was ideal for the homeowners’ traditional style, and they felt very comfortable inviting guests to stay in the space.  The project was recently recognized with a Remodeling Excellence Award from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, Greater Chicagoland.

About Normandy Remodeling

Normandy Remodeling is a Design/Build remodeling firm that develops plans and designs and then executes those plans to create a single point of contact for a homeowner’s remodeling project.  Normandy Remodeling has been providing award winning kitchens, baths, renovations and additions to Chicago area clients for over 34 years.  Normandy is known for great service, high ethical standards, and exceptional quality of work.  Their dedication to their clients has previously earned them the title of Remodeler of the Year by Professional Remodeler Magazine, as well as the distinction of GuildQuality Guildmaster Award 2008 through 2012.  Centrally located in Hinsdale, Normandy Remodeling services the entire Chicago Metro area.  Normandy’s headquarters also features an 8,000 sq ft showroom that allows prospective clients to learn more about the renovation process and makes the selections process for existing clients quick and convenient. For more information about Normandy and the other awards and recognition that they have received, visit http://www.NormandyRemodeling.com.

John attended Eastern Illinois University, Indiana University, and the University of Notre Dame, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Technology Education. In addition, he is NKBA (National Kitchen & Bath Association) trained. John’s passion and inspiration for renovation stems in part from his extensive international travel; which has provided recognition of, and appreciation for, a wide variety of architectural styles and influences.