40 DIY Finished Basement Ideas to Inspire Your Downstairs Space

Once upon a time, basements were just used for storage, laundry, and heating. But nowadays, a finished basement can be whatever you want it to be—including a home theater, a family game room, or even a guest bedroom! If you have a more formal living room, a finished basement can be a place where you and your loved ones gather to unwind, unplug, and unleash your inner couch potatoes. Whether you're planning a gut renovation or a simple refresh for your basement space, get ready to be inspired by plenty of stylish DIY basement ideas to choose from.

In this gallery of stunning finished basements, you'll find tips and tutorials that will help you totally transform your space from dingy to divine on any budget. For example, you can learn how to get the gorgeous "German schmear" brick look for less, how to work makeover magic on your floors with a few fresh coats of paint, or how to hide your TV in plain sight with a simple visual trick. When it comes to finished basements, the possibilities are truly endless! Unlock your space's true potential with these DIY projects. (PS: If you're in a spring cleaning mood, check out these kitchen décor ideas and pantry organization tips!)

A blush and black palette add beauty to this multi-purpose basement, which was designed to be a living and wellness space for practicing dance, yoga, and more. With style like this, you'll definitely be living well!

See more at Vanessa Francis.

SHOP WALLPAPER

Working (or crafting!) from home without a defined workspace can make your job feel way more stressful. Enter this sophisticated basement office/craftroom, which features an accent wall in a soothing stone tone.

See more at Snazzy Little Things.

SHOP PAINT

Transform your basement space by painting the floors white. Round out this chic look with a neutral color palette of black, white, and tan—with a few splashes of animal print for some extra pizazz!

See more at My Sweet Savannah.

SHOP ANIMAL PRINT PILLOWS

A basement playroom is the perfect place to have fun with mixing patterns! Whimsical wallpaper and a geometric print rug come together for a playful look that banishes the basement blahs.

See more at Elements of Style.

SHOP RUGS

Who says man caves can't be stylish and elegant? The Makerista incorporates typically masculine elements like rich, dark leather and wood, while breaking stereotypes with a white faux fur ottoman and floral throw pillows.

See more at The Makerista.

SHOP FUR STOOLS

Entertaining has never been easier with this multi-purpose basement featuring a bar, kitchenette, and family room. To really wow your guests, find out how to achieve the "german schmear" brick look for less!

See more at The Other Side of Neutral.

SHOP SPACKLE

A built-in shiplap media unit? Yes, please! This stunning piece serves as the focal point of this modern media room, and offers plenty of shelf space for decor and books.

See more at Honeybear Lane.

SHOP FAUX PLANTS

The key to a relaxing basement family room is tons of seating! Make the most of your space with an oversized sectional sofa that will allow everyone to spread out in style. Another pro tip: Opt for an ottoman over a traditional coffee table so you and your family can put up your feet and relax.

See more at House of Jade Interiors.

SHOP OTTOMAN TABLES

This bright, inviting space can be enjoyed year-round, thanks to cozy carpeting and a gas fireplace. Navy blue built-in cabinetry adds storage, and a beverage fridge means you'll never have to go far for refreshments!

See more at Sima Spaces.

SHOP BEVERAGE FRIDGES

Natural materials, a custom barn door, and a decorative wagon wheel bring rustic chic style to this basement space. Use romantic word wall art to celebrate your love as well as your style.

See more at Robyn's Southern Nest.

SHOP WORD WALL ART

Showcase all of your favorite things with a basement featuring multiple built-in shelves. This space incorporates football relics, fun photos, vintage glasses, and other collectables for a truly unique look. Add seagrass baskets to the mix to meet all of your storage needs.

See more at The Handmade Home.

SHOP STORAGE BASKETS

A curvy blue velvet sofa and an antique gold chandelier set a glamorous tone for this stunning basement sitting room. Adorn your walls with colorful vintage prints for added retro appeal.

See more at Jeweled Interiors.

SHOP PAMPAS GRASS

Creamy oak flooring can elevate any space, and this laid-back, modern basement is no exception! Bonus: This laminate flooring is super pet-friendly so you can feel good about cuddling up with your furry companions.

See more at Jess Ann Kirby.

SHOP OAK LAMINATE FLOORING

Calling all sports fans! This basement remodel features a surprisingly polished sports theme, with framed vintage game day prints, a trophy lamp, and a personalized arena board. Score!

See more at Okie a la Mode.

SHOP COLLEGE PENNANTS

Step outside your comfort zone by featuring bold black shiplap walls in your basement. This look pairs well with neutrals and is the most genius way to hide your TV in plain sight!

See more at House of Hire.

SHOP DECORATIVE LADDERS

If your basement is plagued by drab brown wood paneling, it may be easier than you think to achieve a modern look. A fresh coat of white paint will make your space appear brighter and more inviting, while the wood paneling can add texture.

See more at Alma Homes.

SHOP WHITE PAINT

If a white space isn't your thing, you can always embrace your brown wood paneling and lean into a retro aesthetic. This blogger uses string lights, vintage prints, and a shuffleboard table to achieve a self-described "1970s went to summer camp" look.

See more at Bridget's Beehive.

SHOP STRING LIGHTS

Bring modern boho style to your basement with a vintage (or vintage-inspired) rug and a textured ottoman. This look feels lived-in—in the best possible way!

See more at Katie Hackworth.

SHOP RUGS

Have you ever seen a more soothing playroom? The secret lies in the cool blue and white color palette—and in hiding unsightly toys in pretty wicker storage baskets. Round out this bright, fresh look with a baby blue foam playmat that's as sweet as it is functional.

See more at Winter Daisy.

SHOP WALL LETTERS

If you're looking to infuse cozy, old-home charm into a new construction, consider using nickel gap shiplap. This design feature looks just as beautiful on ceilings as it does on walls!

See more at Heirloomed Blog.

SHOP NICKEL GAP SHIPLAP

No windows? No problem. White walls and a sunny yellow bedscape go a long way toward brightening this teenage girl's basement bedroom. The DIY tutorial for this horizontal channel tufted headboard is truly inspired.

See more at Jeweled Interiors.

SHOP VELVET PILLOWS

This Scandinavian basement embraces minimalism without sacrificing style. We especially love this perfect little nook with a built-in bench, a Saarinen-inspired tulip table, and a vintage Eames chair.

See more here and at Wise Design.

SHOP TULIP TABLES

Revamping your dated basement bathroom can be as simple as adding new lighting, a new mirror—and lots of paint. A gingham print shower curtain and your favorite straw hat brings a little dose of country chic style.

See more at The Craft Patch.

SHOP MIRRORS

Having trouble deciding where to start in your basement redesign? Consider building your space around a single beloved piece of decor. This lovely navy and gold guest bedroom was inspired by an antique quilt. We love the way it all came together—including this headboard made from a piece of foam and a rug runner. Mind. Blown.

See more at Polkadot Chair.

SHOP RUG RUNNERS

This basement movie room is perfect for cinephiles and couch potatoes alike. Add a playful touch like a red dinosaur statue to make this room fun for the whole family.

See more at Boxy Colonial.

SHOP MOVIE POSTERS

Bring a southwestern sensibility to your basement space with playful cactus framed prints and an Aztec-inspired rug. In addition to offering style inspiration, this blog post will help you solve for problems like uneven floors and low ceilings.

See more at I Heart Vegetables.

SHOP CACTUS WALL ART

This basement space is filled with several similar-tone statement pieces for a calm, cool, and collected feel. A woven circular mirror, a modern terra cotta vase, and a wooden storage box bring tons of texture to this space.

See more at Sharp and Grey.

SHOP MIRRORS

When the sun has set at your lake house, retreat to this comfy, informal basement family room. You'll love curling up with a good book in a comfy, oversized chair, or playing games at the round table in the corner nook.

See more at Lily Pad Cottage.

SHOP DECORATIVE OARS

Say goodbye to unsightly basement support poles with this tutorial for beautiful white wood columns. Add to the regal appeal with rich, green walls.

See more at The Chronicles of Home.

SHOP CAULK

Give your basement family room a simple holiday refresh with red or green sofa slipcovers and plaid throw pillows. Then get in the Christmas spirit by cuddling up with your loved ones to watch classic Christmas movies.

See more at The Wicker House.

SHOP HOLIDAY PILLOWS

Make your kids' dreams come true with this gorgeous basement playhouse, crafted with love in modern farmhouse style. The house includes five play areas, including a nursery, a kitchen, and a craft room for endless entertainment for your little ones!

See more at Her Tool Belt.

SHOP BOXWOOD TOPIARIES

This playful, coastal-inspired kitchenette is full of interesting design details like a board and batten grid wall, which offers a very affordable way to add a high-end look. The secret is using MDF boards from your local lumber store!

See more at Remodelaholic.

SHOP METAL BAR STOOLS

Sometimes the best thing to do is just embrace your imperfect space. This blog post will show you how to make the most of your basement on a budget, by skimming the walls and building your own copper clothing rack and slatted wood cabinets.

See more at Beginning in the Middle.

SHOP COPPER PIPES

A blue and white palette brings calming, beachy vibes to this Laguna Beach farmhouse basement. Lean into the oceanic aesthetic by decorating with driftwood and found shells.

See more at Amethyst Home.

SHOP DRIFTWOOD DECOR

Even the steps leading to your basement should be beautiful! Here's how to achieve a lovely wood look without having to replace your stairs.

See more at Simply Beautiful by Angela.

SHOP ANTIQUE SEALING WAX

This family-friendly basement living room is filled with fun touches, like an oversized Ferris wheel print, a "PLAY" wall sign, and the most beautiful modern foosball table you'll ever see. Let the games begin!

See more at Stagg Design.

SHOP FOOSBALL TABLES

If you love the ever-popular farmhouse look but want to make it your own, consider adding a few industrial touches. We love how this space incorporates industrial pipe throughout the basement, including in the staircase railing and in a 10-foot counter bar behind the sofa.

See more at Meme Hill.

SHOP INDUSTRIAL PIPE SHELVES

Any good designer will tell you that a little greenery goes a long way when it comes to home decor. Bring the outside inside with faux plants, plant prints, and some woodsy birch tree wallpaper.

See more at Elements of Style.

SHOP WALLPAPER

If you’re looking to create a basement space where you can “hang out,” consider installing a hammock swing chair. Relaxation station, here we come!

See more at Provident Home Design.

SHOP HAMMOCK SWING CHAIRS

This cozy basement game room is perfect for hosting friends and family. "Decorate" with vintage games that are as fun to look at as they are to play!

See more at Holland Avenue Home.

SHOP VINTAGE BOARD GAMES