A low ceiling in areas such as the basement creates an oppressive feeling that makes it hard to find such a space habitable let along usable. However, revamping the basement in a great way of updating your home to get to most out of the available space. Of the many upgrading basement ideas with low ceilings out there, excavating the floor is often an option quickly pop up in the mind of many homeowners. However, it is a costly undertaking in as much as it is a possibility.
So how do you maximize the available room in your basement when faced with the restrictive nature of the low ceiling? The answer lies in finding ways of creating the illusion of additional vertical space, and you can achieve this with the following simple renovations and decorating techniques:
1. Illuminate the ceiling
The introduction of lights that point upwards to the low ceiling can help increase the perceived height. You can achieve this using small spotlights installed in the walls and can be adjusted to point up towards the ceiling at the desired angle. Track lighting or wall sconces and also suffice. The lighting should be installed above eye level so that the illumination does not interfere with the line of vision. Lights should also be installed at the highest point of a low sloped ceiling to help draw eyes upwards and achieve the desired illusion of additional vertical height. Moreover, the use of a few colored bulbs can add a vibrant decorative touch to the basement.
2. Introduce pale colors and use a monochromatic scheme
The use of bright shades of paint can help make a low ceilinged basement feel less of a cave. Dark colors emphasize the limited vertical room available. Colors that reflect the available light – be it natural or artificial lighting – are an excellent choice when thinking of refurbishing basement ideas with low ceilings. The colors help to inject a sense of roominess in the basement. The best effects are achieved through painting the walls with pale colors and the ceiling with a bright contrasting color. Consider using a monochromatic color scheme to create the feeling of openness in the room.
3. Low raftered ceilings with exposed beams
For a raftered low ceiling with exposed beams, boarding them up is not the way to go. The home remodeling gurus suggest leaving the rafters exposed and finding areas in their placement that can be transformed into an architectural feature. Also, identify a focal point where you can install some spotlights in the beams. Sanding and refinishing the rafters with a beautiful polish is an excellent option if you are going for a rustic décor. Painting them can also help add some vitality to the beams.
4. Adding patterns to create visual illusions
For basements with flat low ceilings that are lacking a decorative element, you can inject some life into them by creating patterns that run from the walls to the center or a particular point of the ceiling. Place strips around the walls to make a grid pattern that has a layered effect and then paint the strips with a color that contrasts that of the walls and ceiling. Alternatively, you can place the strips only on the walls and then paint them with the same color as the ceiling. The two options create an illusion that helps to draw the eyes upwards, and this makes the basement feel roomier.
5. Work with a low décor design
Lastly, the type décor design to consider when thinking of revamping basement ideas with low ceilings should be one that capitalizes on elements that help the basement feel more spacious. For instance, use low furniture such as throw pillows and low-backed chairs for seating. Also, install Decorative pieces such as wall hangings and drapes that help reinforce the illusion of additional vertical height.
Hello, lovely readers! I’m Sheila Collins, and I’m delighted to be your trusted guide on this exciting journey of home improvement, design, and lifestyle. As the founder and editor-in-chief of Home Guide Blog, I’m passionate about all things related to homes, and I’m here to share my knowledge, experiences, and insights with you.