Banish dark-and-dreary subterranean spaces with these basement wall ideasranging from a can of paint to more elaborate architectural additions.
Concrete block walls and other unfinished spaces dont have to look dreary.
In this living space, thedeep orange wallcomplements an earthy palette of gold, pea-green, and light brown.
At each intersection, hammer in a decorative furniture tack to create a tufted look.
Install baseboard and crown molding last.
For a chic loft-like look belowground, leave those gorgeous bricks exposed.
Above-grade windows let in light, so the dark-hued walls don’t feel constricting.
Add Architectural Interest
In this stately room, ordinary lumber lends some handsomeArt Deco style.
The poplar is stained dark walnut and attached over the joints between the plywood sheets.
Hint: Before applying the architectural detailing, boost your home’s energy efficiency by insulating the walls.
Rigid foam panels offer more insulating value than fiberglass and are impervious to moisture.
Hang Curtain Panels
Looking for cheap basement wall ideas?
Craft the panels from canvas painter’s drop cloths, then attach large grommets to the top edge.
Flaunt a Curved Wall
Make the most of curved basement walls with wainscoting and interesting artwork.
Perk Up with Plywood
Not all basement wall ideas need to be costly.
For extra functionality, paint some of the plywood squares with chalkboard paint as a message center.
Here the trimwork and ceiling are painted warm white, while the drywall is coated in bright white.
In this case, the stud wall is attached to the overhead joists and the concrete slab.
Play with Geometric Pattern
Color and pattern go a long way toward giving a space life.
With such a vibrant palette, there’s no hint of darkness in this below-grade space.
Try this on a focal point wall or a short room divider.
Can’t find yardsticks?
you’ve got the option to get a similar effect with repurposed pallet wood or fence pickets.
Go Practical with Pegboard
In this retro-style basement, panels ofwhite-painted pegboardadd funky texture to the wall.
Meanwhile, hanging hardware (designed for pegboards) secures handy baskets for remote controls and magazines.
Don’t be afraid totest paint colorsyou might otherwise skip.
Focus Attention with Color
Demarcate your basement work zone with a splash of bright color.
Before you pick up a paintbrush, consider where you want to draw the eye.
In this case, a bright backdrop emphasizes the clean, modern lines of the desk.
After the paint dries, remove the painter’s tape to reveal the white outlines.
Panels of bright fabric also add color and mimic the vertical lines of curtains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes.
If your basement walls are already painted, consult an expert before applying new layers.
Applying even high-quality waterproofing paint over old paint will reduce or eliminate the paints water-resistant qualities.
First, inspect the area for visible mold growth, cracks, and musty smells.
All are signs of basement moisture.
