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Hiding poles and ductwork can be a real design challenge in finishing off your basement.  Ideally you want to try and design the rooms to hide the posts in the walls, but that doesn't always workout.  Here are a couple ideas to make the poles feel like they have a purpose in the design.

1) Hide your basement pole in an arch.

One way we have found, that works well, is  to connect one or more poles with arches.  The arch also adds and element of design and WOW factor to a typically boring space.  There are two different ways to finish the arches.

In this design, the basement poles have been caputured into the walls of these drywalled arches. 

Here the arches are designed to meet at the poles and then finished off with pole wraps.  

Another benefit to arches is they can be used to create rooms in a big open space and at the same time hide the poles.  You can see how the arches have defined a media room in this basement.

2) Create a custom column wrap to hide your basement pole.

There are multiple ways to create a great looking column cover for your basement columns.  One easy, do-it-yourself solution, is a pre-fabricated column wrap.  You can find a column wrap at many lumber yards.  This idea is used by many basement contractors.  Another great way to hide your basement post is to use wood and moldings to create a custom elegant look.

In this photo you can see how the custom pole wraps have become apart of the living space and specified a space for the tv area.

Photos By: Finished Basements Plus

Job Location: Shelby Township, Novi, Rochester Hills, West Bloomfield

As a wise budgeter, you have planned to reuse that old refrigerator from the kitchen to save some money on the bar in your basement.  While this seems to be extremely practical, and fiscally responsible, reusing the old refrigerator could be a stain on your beautiful new bar.  If you didn't like that old fridge in your kitchen you most likely will not like looking at it downstairs. 

A common theme in basement bars is to incorporate an undercounter refrigerator.  Undercounter refrigerators come in two styles; free standing and built-in.  Free standing models are the more affordable of the two, pricing around $100-$400.  These are typically what a student would buy for their dorm room.  A more desirable look would be select a built-in refrigerator.  This option doesn't require an air gap around the unit for air flow so you can snug the fridge up to the cabinets for a custom look  (photo right).  Built-ins are a pricer option starting at $1,000 and quickly go up from there.

Design Reminder - When designing your kitchen or bar, it is ideal to have your appliances picked out before hand.  This will insure that your new appliances have the required space in the new design and all electrical and plumbing requirements are known before construction starts.

Photo: Finished Basement Plus.     Project Location: White Lake, Michigan

           BEFORE: Finished Basement                  AFTER: Lower Level

This basement was already finished.  It had rubber flooring, paneling on the walls, a sagging drop ceiling and a full bath.  Prior to reconstruction the homeowners were mostly using the space to exercise and store unused items.   It wasn't a warm and inviting space that they wanted to spend too much time in.  The new basement plan took into consideration some elements of the existing space that could be reused. 

         BEFORE: Finished Basement                       AFTER: Lower Level

Before the remodel, the exercise equipment was out in the open.  The new design enclosed the exercise equipment with a french door, which let in the natural light from the doorwall, but also kept the exercise equipment separated from the entertainment area.   The 2x2 florescent lights were replaced with recessed cans to add warmth and coziness to the room.  One of the structural columns was captured in the wall during construction to eliminate as many exposed columns as possible.  The remaining structural columns were finished off with custom trim so they feel more like a piece of furniture instead of a pole holding up the house.

The homeowners were very pleased with the finished product and now are enjoying more than just exercising in their new Lower Level. 

Photos Taken by: Finished Basements Plus.    Job Location: West Bloomfield  MI

Ugh...your upstairs ready for bed and are wondering if you turned the lights off downstairs  You think you turned everything off, but not sure.  Here's a cool little feature that makes your life easier.

Add an illuminated three way switch that lights up when in the off position.  So if the light switch is illuminated you know the light is off.  This feature also acts as a night light so you can see the switch when looking for it in the dark.  With the three way switch feature you can turn the lights on and off from upstairs or downstairs.  This isn't ground breaking technology, just a value added feature to your home.

Image: Image: scottchan / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

From the Designers Desk: Katie Gilbert

This porcelain tile has been a very popular selection lately.  And for good reason.  It looks like slate without the cost and maintenance of real slate.

Natural slate needs to be sealed to prevent staining, this porcelain tile is non-porous and will not require sealing.  Natural slate also has a tendency to flake a little at first, as the loose bits and uneven edges wear down.  This porcelain tile has a smoother texture so your bar stools won't rock or get jammed up on the rough edges, like they would on a natural slate stone. 

With 3 color pallets to choose from, you are sure to find one that will look great in your bath, kitchen or bar. 

Green details: Made in the USA- with materials from the USA.  With more than half of the content pre-consumer recycled materials , and little post-consumer recycled material thrown in as well, this is a very eco conscious product and is GreenGuard Certified.

Photo taken by: Finished Basements Plus.    Job Location: Superior Twp. Michigan

As Chuck Gaidica declares, "Cuddle Alert!"  It's frigid out, so it's time to snuggle up with someone.  Make it picture perfect by snuggling up in front of your fireplace.

No fireplace you say.   Then consider adding a gas or electric fireplace.  One can be installed anywhere in your home or basement by using a vent-free-gas or electric fireplace.  A vented-gas fireplace is very versatile, but requires a bit more work, than an electric, if it isn't installed on an outside wall.

There are several options to finishing the surround of a fireplace.  Go modern by installing it high with no mantel or hearth.  Add a tile surround with a simple mantel to keep it classic.  Raising the fireplace for a hearth and adding stone to the surround with a large, wooden mantle will give you cabin-like charm.  Whether the style of your home is classic or modern, just be sure to keep a snuggle buddy near.

Photo taken by: Finished Basements Plus.    Project Located in Highland Twp.

Guest Post

If you are like many homeowners, you will find yourself hosting friends and family that visit your home.  By taking the time to provide a relaxing, welcoming space for your guests, you will help ensure that their visit is pleasant.  Giving guests their own bathroom is key to making them feel comfortable in your home.

Purposeful Placement

Choosing the location of your guest bathroom is important.  Making sure that the bathroom is located close to their bedroom helps them feel comfortable using it as their own, and is also helpful for them if they need to use it during the night.  Whether adding a bathroom in suite or next to the bedroom, consider putting in a full bathroom.  Providing a full bathroom gives them additional privacy for bathing as well as a place to store their toiletries.

Style and Design

Aim for a relaxing, spa-like environment.  Soft, muted colors will provide a relaxing vibe for your traveling guests.  Keep decorations simple - candles and fresh flowers provide a luxurious atmosphere.  Make sure that the vanity area is free of clutter.  Leave a couple open shelves or a designated place for guests to keep their toiletries.  Hang fresh, fluffy towels for their use and provide an extra hook or shelf for them to place their clothes while showering.

Welcoming Extras

Make your guests stay even more comfortable by providing everything they might need during their stay.  Make sure that basic supplies like extra toilet paper and towels are easily accessible.  It's nice to keep a decorative basket stocked with shampoos, soaps, razors and toothpaste just in case they forget anything.  By keeping these little "extras" within view, guests know that they are free to use them and don't have to worry about bothering you - and they feel like a special guest!

Last, before your guests arrive, make sure your bathroom is clean and fresh.  Wipe down the sink, tub and toilet, to remove any dust that may have collected since the room was last used.  Let guests know that they can use the guest bathroom as their own and make sure they know where everything is located.  A warm, inviting bathroom is key to making sure that your guests feel welcomed and valued while staying in your home!

Written by Adam Coholan, an active blogger remodeling, renovation, and interior design based on his experience working with luxury Queens condos around the New York area.  You can follow him on Twitter @Coho22.

Photo: Taken by Finished Basements Plus.  Project located in Brighton, Michigan.

A contractor wants to do your job the cheapest and fastest way possible.  He is not going to want to go to the trouble of moving mechanicals and incur the extra expense and time into a project.  He wants to get in and get out.

A designer, on the other hand, is looking to make the best use of space and do it right.  He/She will move the underground plumbing, even if it is only a few feet, to make the floor plan work.  He/She will make sure cabinets are ordered correctly so drawers and doors are sure to open properly.

I was just listening to Steve and Katie talk about moving duct work to make a basement bath plan work.  She didn't want to settle on a poor design if a little extra effort would make a better, more fuctional space.

A designer is looking out for your best interest.  A designer is looking for ways to fulfill your needs and criteria.

guest post-

Glass tile is a huge trend in home decor, and for good reason, because it has a lot going for it.  Not only is it easy to clean and maintain, it's completely versatile, lending itself to kitchen and bathroom styles ranging from traditional to ultra-modern.  Here are some ideas for ways to use the glass tile to fit in with any bathroom or kitchen backsplash:

COLOR

One of the best things about glass tile is that it comes in nearly every color imaginable, and you can mix and match to create a glass tile mosaic to fit any style.  You'll also never have to worry about the color chipping or fading, since it is fired directly into the glass.

If your kitchen and bathroom are traditional or country in style, a good option to match the look is to choose neutral glass tile colors such as deep browns or earthy greens.  Glass tile mosaics let you add beautiful variety to your bathroom and kitchen backsplashes by combining colors to match the rest of the room exactly.

For a more modern look, hues such as red and turquoise can be used to make a bold statement.  Other ideas are using black, white, or gray tile to match industrial decor and stainless appliances.

STYLE

Traditional glass tile is generally square shaped and small, with each of the sides measuring less than an inch in length.  These glass tiles, when used monochromatically or as a part of a larger design, add interest to any kitchen or bathroom.

Glass tiles also  come in larger pieces, wave tiles, and rectangles, commonly referred to as subway tile.  For eye-catching backsplash, different tile styles can be used simultaneously to create unique patterns and designs.  This functionality makes glass tile ideal for any kitchen or bathroom.

TEXTURE    

Texture also plays a big role in making glass tile such an attractive option for so many bathrooms.  From frosted to ceramic, there are a myriad of beautiful finishes that complement a wide variety of styles and personalities.  The glass tile can also be mixed with other tiles like stone.

For a wide variety of glass tile designs, colors, textures, and personalized assistance in creating custom orders, check out GlassTileWarehouse.com.

Steve sold a finished basement, in White Lake, that was to have a "Jimmy Buffet" theme.   There was one support pole that was still exposed in the design and he came up with the idea to turn this pole into a palm tree.  And it was my job to make it happen.



Everyone is amazed that this is a support pole.  I can't take all the credit.  My crafty Aunt came up with the idea to make this work.

Amy Iverson

Photo taken by: Finished Basements Plus.  Project located in White Lake, MI