Do’s and Don’ts of Basement Trends: Avoid These 10 Ideas!
Basements are often the last place we think to update, isn’t it? Nevertheless, keeping them fresh and stylish is key to a beautiful home. Here are 10 outdated basement trends to avoid, giving your basement a much-needed facelift!
Contents
- 1. Say Goodbye to Drop Ceilings:
- 2. Dark and Dim Lighting
- 3. Overly Themed Decor
- 4. Wallpaper Borders
- 5. Wood Panel Ceilings
- 6. Fluorescent Lighting
- 7. Shag Carpeting
- 8. Bulkheads and Ductwork Cover-Ups
- 9. Unused Spaces
- 10. Heavy Curtains and Drapes
- “Bonus” outdated basement trend: Outdated Electronics
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Q1. How can I modernize the lighting in my outdated basement?
- Q2. What should I do with outdated drop ceilings in my basement?
- Q3. How can I update my basement’s flooring from outdated options like shag carpeting?
- Q4. What’s a simple way to refresh the walls in my outdated basement?
- Q5. How can I make my basement feel more spacious and modern?
1. Say Goodbye to Drop Ceilings:
One of The Most Common Outdated Basement Trends
Remember those old suspended ceilings with acoustic tiles? They’re not the trend anymore. Drop ceilings, once a common choice for basements, are now considered outdated and can significantly impact the overall aesthetics of your space. Those old suspended ceilings with acoustic tiles not only give a sense of a bygone era but can also make your basement feel cramped and outdated. The remedy? Opt for a more modern approach by installing a drywall ceiling or, better yet, expose the architectural charm of beams for a cool, open look. Embracing these alternatives will transform your basement, creating a contemporary and spacious ambiance.
2. Dark and Dim Lighting
If your basement has old, not-so-bright lights, it’s time for a change. Outdated fixtures not only cast a gloomy atmosphere but also contribute to an overall outdated feel. Say goodbye to the shadows and welcome bright, energy-saving lights into your basement. The introduction of modern lighting not only adds a lively and vibrant touch but also catapults your basement into the realm of contemporary design.
3. Overly Themed Decor
Is your basement trapped in a time warp with an overdose of one specific theme, be it retro or super rustic? It’s time to break free from the chains of overly themed decor. Steering away from an excessive commitment to a single style allows you to embrace a more timeless design. Opt for elements that are versatile and easy to adapt to changing trends. This ensures that your basement remains dynamic and perpetually fresh, avoiding the pitfalls of a stagnant and outdated aesthetic.
4. Wallpaper Borders
Those wallpaper strips at chair height? They scream old-fashioned. To infuse a new vibe into your basement, consider embracing full-wall wallpaper or a fresh coat of paint. This simple yet stylish update has the power to transform your space, bidding farewell to the outdated borders and creating a contemporary backdrop that aligns with modern design sensibilities.
5. Wood Panel Ceilings
Wooden ceilings with beams were big once, but not anymore. These days, such ceilings can make a room feel dated. To inject a trendy and modern look, contemplate painting the ceiling or showcasing the natural beauty of the beams as they are. This shift towards a more contemporary ceiling aesthetic can instantly elevate the style of your basement, bidding adieu to the old-fashioned vibe.
6. Fluorescent Lighting
The era of old tube lights, particularly fluorescent lighting, is now behind us. Apart from being energy-inefficient, these lights don’t contribute to an appealing visual environment. Say farewell to the outdated glow and welcome the energy-efficient brilliance of LED lights. Not only do they help conserve energy, but they also lend a modern and visually pleasing touch to your basement, ensuring a bright and updated atmosphere. Time to transform into improved basement trends like this!
7. Shag Carpeting
Shag carpets were cool once, but not anymore. They’re hard to clean too. Choose modern carpets or hard floors like laminate. They’re easier to keep clean and look great, and such transition to more contemporary flooring options ensures that your basement stays on-trend and visually appealing.
8. Bulkheads and Ductwork Cover-Ups
Hiding ducts and bulkheads with covers can make your basement feel smaller. Why not show them off? It gives a modern, spacious vibe.
9. Unused Spaces
Got awkward spots or old furniture that’s just there? Rethink your space. Make it useful and flexible. Whether it’s a cozy reading nook, a mini home office, or a play area for kids, making these spaces useful adds value to your basement. By maximizing every corner, you not only eliminate the sense of stagnation but also infuse vibrancy into your basement’s design.
10. Heavy Curtains and Drapes
Thick curtains have the tendency to make your basement seem closed off and dated. Basement trends like this one can drastically reduce the ambiance of your space. Embrace a more modern and airy feel by opting for light, sheer curtains or blinds. This choice not only allows natural light to permeate the space but also imparts a fresh and contemporary ambiance. Making this switch ensures that your basement feels brighter, more inviting, and in tune with modern design trends.
“Bonus” outdated basement trend: Outdated Electronics
This one is often considered as one of the easy basement trends to avoid but still worth mentioning: Big old TVs and huge entertainment centers take up lots of room! They can make your basement feel stuck in the past. Try modern, smaller tech stuff. It saves space and looks way cooler.
So there you have it, 10 old basement trends to avoid for a space that’s stylish and up-to-date. Say bye to these outdated basement trends and embrace a fresh, modern aesthetic. Your basement has the potential to be a stylish and up-to-date space that complements the rest of your home. For more inspiration and updates, follow our Instagram page! Remember, simple changes can make a big difference. Happy decorating!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How can I modernize the lighting in my outdated basement?
A1. Replace old, dim fixtures with bright, energy-efficient LED lights to create a vibrant and contemporary atmosphere.
Q2. What should I do with outdated drop ceilings in my basement?
A2. Consider removing drop ceilings and opt for a modern drywall ceiling or expose architectural beams for a spacious and contemporary look.
Q3. How can I update my basement’s flooring from outdated options like shag carpeting?
A3. Transition to modern flooring options like laminate or modern carpets that are easier to clean and maintain, enhancing the visual appeal of your basement.
Q4. What’s a simple way to refresh the walls in my outdated basement?
A4. Replace outdated wallpaper borders with full-wall wallpaper or fresh coats of paint to create a contemporary backdrop and eliminate the old-fashioned vibe.
Q5. How can I make my basement feel more spacious and modern?
A5. Embrace modern design elements by showcasing architectural features like beams, opting for light and sheer curtains, and making unused spaces functional to maximize the perceived space and create a fresh ambiance.