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The pandemic has made us think differently about our living spaces—especially those we don’t use as often as others, such as the attics or basements.
This is a perfect time to start thinking outside the box and elevate these spaces so we can enjoy them more.
We have put together some of our favorite DIY ideas for your attic and basement. From storage to entertaining, there are many ways to do it.
Table of Contents
- DIY Ideas: Installing a Wine Cellar
- Creating a Stylish Basement Laundry Room
- Creating the Ultimate Workout Space
- DIY Ideas: Creating a Stylish Home Theater
- Adding Extra Storage Space at Home
- Installing a Drop Ceiling
- DIY Ideas: Making a Beautiful Montessori-Style Playroom
- Turning your Basement into a Game Room
- Setting Up a Home Office
- DIY Ideas: Creating Charming Attic Reading Room
- Building a Guest Bedroom
- Making Money From your Basement
- Conclusion: Which DIY Ideas are on Your List?
1. DIY Ideas: Installing a Wine Cellar
Photo by RonTech2000 via iStock
The basement has a moody vibe that makes it feels natural to keep your wine collection here. Re-painting the walls a dark color or adding a skylight is probably the only significant renovation that will be required of the room itself.
But if you have the time, why not store your bottles in style with custom wine racks?
Tip: “Ensure your basement is wine storage-ready” means you must invest in temperature control. Air conditioning will not be enough; you’ll need a wine-controlling unit instead.
2. Creating a Stylish Basement Laundry Room
In the video above by Tina Le, you’ll learn how to turn your old dark basement into the laundry room of your dreams.
One of the stand-out features of Tina’s laundry room is her DIY slatted barn door. It’s an inexpensive option for adding some flair to any area, and it is a beginner-friendly project you can do in one day!
Photo by Trigger Photo via iStock
Plus, barn doors have a lovely rustic farmhouse look that goes well with modern furniture. You can also see how she added a penetrating wood stain to her door before she hung it.
This product goes deep into the wood to create bright colors that bring out the wood’s natural beauty.
If you’re interested in installing a sliding barn door in your home, check out this great Sliding Barn Door Hardware Track Kit similar to what Tina uses.
3. Creating the Ultimate Workout Space
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If you are still reluctant to return to the gym and own a basement, why not transform it into a functional workout space?
The best part about having a dedicated workout space is that you won’t feel like working out at home. It will help motivate you to stay fit during this quarantine period.
Drywall anchors allow for the simple mounting of exercise equipment like pull-up bars. Consider also installing a TV to make your treadmill experience even better.
Tip: Take into account the type of exercise you perform and the tools you require. Afterward, scale the space’s plan.
4. DIY Ideas: Creating a Stylish Home Theater
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With the rise of streaming platforms, everyone seems to have a home theater; now it’s your turn! Creating a home cinema is easier than ever.
For example, you can hang DIY ambient lighting above your sofa to provide soft lighting while you watch movies. Or you can have DIY popcorn stands to add a fun touch to your movie night.
Tip: If you want to use LED lights, ensure they are dimmable. Otherwise, you may end up spending too much money on electricity bills.
5. Adding Extra Storage Space at Home
Make your favorite place to dump things into an area with no clutter. Built-in rafter shelving is an excellent way to add extra storage space, and it is simple enough to make.
In addition, you can use it as a motivation to start decluttering your house. Check out more decluttering tips here.
The attic can grow hot in the summer and colder than the rest of your home in the winter, so store as much as you can in sealed containers.
Tip: Creating a more accessible entrance to your attic can help ensure safety.
6. Installing a Drop Ceiling
Transforming your basement ceilings can add a huge difference to the overall look of your attic.
The easiest way for beginners to achieve this transformation is to hang a drop ceiling panel over existing walls.
Tip: Use fence staples to hold the angle tight.
7. DIY Ideas: Making a Beautiful Montessori-Style Playroom
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Dedicating an entire space to creating a Montessori-style playroom can be a solution for parents who need a little more room for their kids to explore and experiment.
For a fun addition, make a DIY giant chalkboard wall. That is sure to be a hit among kids!
Tip: Before you go overboard with decorating, remember that the kids need space to move and climb around.
8. Turning Your Basement Into a Game Room
From kids to adults, everyone needs a game room. Not only does it entertain, but it also provides a relaxing environment for you to unwind after a long day.
Tip: Ensure your basement is moisture free and cool. If necessary, insulate it properly.
9. Setting Up a Home Office
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Can’t handle the stress of working at home? It is time to create a separate office area, and the attic is the ideal spot for this.
Make My Space Work did a fantastic job of turning a dark attic into a chic home office. Have a look at this video on how they worked their magic.
Tip: Make sure your attic has adequate lighting and ventilation.
10. DIY Ideas: Creating Charming Attic Reading Room
Photo by fizkes via iStock
Transforming your attic into a cozy reading nook where you can escape into a world of fantasy without leaving your home is one of the most incredible things you can do now.
Tip: Ensure your attic is clean and dry, without leaks!
11. Building a Guest Bedroom
Even if you don’t have guests coming over frequently, transforming your attic into an extra bedroom is a bright idea. You can use the space to host sleepovers or holiday guests!
Tip: Keep the space well-ventilated and ensure it’s warm enough for sleeping.
12. Making Money from Your Basement
Photo by AleksandarNakic via iStock
The home business industry is flourishing. You, too, can start your own business at home. Transform your basement into a virtual storefront and sell everything from crafts to clothing.
Or, you can set up a home studio to create content for your online business.
Tip: Make a budget and follow it, please! (Remember, the idea is to EARN money from your basement)
Conclusion: Which DIY Ideas are on Your List?
Your attic and basement are two rooms that can benefit significantly from some remodeling.
With just a few simple DIY ideas, you can transform your attic and basement into spaces that will help you enjoy your home all year round.
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