Decorating a basement presents special challenges due to the small amount of natural light available. Many basements have no windows or small windows. Whether you want to use a basement in Beaverton, Oregon, for storage or living space, you can take many steps to create the illusion of more space if you have a small basement.

So if you’re tired of the limited light and stuffiness of your basement and want to make some quick changes, check out the following ideas;

1. Light-colored walls

Light, airy shades will reflect more light, which can make a basement look bigger. Cool-toned colors can make walls appear to be receding, which can also help create the illusion of spaciousness. Request for some paint swatches at the paint store, stick them on the walls and look at them at different times of the day (and night). Paint colors can look dramatically different depending on the lighting conditions of a room.

2. Consider A Monochromatic Style

A palette of monochrome colors, where the floors and ceilings are the same color as the walls, helps open up the space. Too much contrast can make the ceiling look lower, light colors for the walls, ceiling, and floor should reverse the trick.

3. Glass doors

Transparent surfaces can make a small room look more spacious. Opt for glass doors to separate the rooms from your basement. The glass will let more light in open up your space.

4. De-clutter.

Clear out and organize the entire basement. Clutter inherently makes spaces feel crowded, which is precisely the opposite of what we want when we’re trying to brighten a space. Clearing horizontal surfaces, choosing aesthetic and functional storage bins, and keeping things clean will go a long way toward brightening the entire basement.

5. A Bright Floor

For floor coverings, a lighter shade is always better to open and brighten up the room. Glossy floors, like polished concrete, are another way to reflect light. If you choose wood, consider lighter or pale shades.

6. More greenery

Plants tend to add life and light to a room. By adding a variety of indoor plants to your basement, you will liven up the space a little bit and even breathe better. Opt for species that require low light for a lasting result. Be careful not to clutter the space with large species or too many plants.

7. Strategic Lighting.

Many basements have lower ceilings, so hanging pendant lights can pose a problem, both aesthetically and, more important, functionally. Selecting recessed lighting for the ceilings and adding in floor and table lamps, or some Great Wall sconces will provide enough light without infringing on the vertical space.

8. The mirrors

Aside from reflecting light, mirrors add an illusion of expansiveness in a room, making it more spacious. You could opt for floor-to-ceiling mirrors if you want, but even adding in a few wall and shelved mirrors will do wonders in brightening your Beaverton basement.

9. Add An accent wall

If your room has no windows or has tiny ones, an accent wall can create brightness and add a new dimension to the space. If you want to create an accent wall, choose light colors and a glossy sheen.

The Bottom Line

If you have a smaller and darker basement, you don’t have to abandon it. Use the above ideas to brighten it up, make it airier, and add an illusion of spaciousness.

If you need professional help with repainting your basement in brighter colors or adding an accent wall Maller Painting Company in Beaverton can help. We have years of interior painting experience serving the areas of Beaverton, Sherwood, and Tigard, Oregon.

To give us a try, book a FREE estimate below or call us on (503) 410-6366 if you have any questions.

Kevin Maller

Kevin began painting houses with his father’s company, C&K Painting, in 1996. His father taught him how to use a brush, roller, and caulk and clean a brush properly. He then worked for several other paint companies, where he learned how to spray oils, lacquers, and all water-based finishes. In 2012, after 15 years of experience, he decided to get licensed and start the Maller Painting Company. His team has focused on providing the best re-painting services to our residential clients in the Beaverton area.