What Color Should I Paint My Basement?
“What colors do you want to paint the basement?” That was the only question I was asked when my husband and I were renovating our basement four years ago. When we first bought our house, my husband claimed that the basement space belonged to him. He insisted whatever house we bought, it must have an unfinished basement. All other house features were solely up to me to decide. So when my husband started calling basement contractors and drawing up flooring plans, I stayed out of it. I’m happy that at least I got to decide on the paint.
When deciding on basement paint colors there are a few things to keep in mind. What size space are you working with? An open space may call for a different paint scheme than a small space. What is the purpose of the space? Keeping in mind who will be using the basement and for what reason may suggest different paint styles. What other key features do you want to highlight? An accent wall or a room full of existing furniture may help guide your paint decisions. Let’s look at these three points in more detail.
Basement paint colors that compliment size
Homeowners often face these two challenges with their basement: a lack of natural lighting and low ceiling height. A lack of natural lighting can make a space feel small. A low ceiling can also make the space feel smaller than it is. A way to overcome this is with a good paint color. An off-white or pale blue may be what you are looking for to help open up a tight space. If you are a little more daring, you may want to paint some sunshine into your basement in the form of a light yellow color.
Basement paint ideas that acknowledge purpose
What is the purpose of your basement space? Are you trying to create a family retreat – a space to hang out and relax? This type of atmosphere may do well with a coat of cool tone paint. Try experimenting with a cool turquoise or pale grey tone. These colors are sure to add a touch of R&R to your basement haven.
Will the space be used mostly by the kids as a play area or space to have friends over? Why not try bright, fun colors! A lime green or electric blue accent wall may help add a playful feel to a basement playroom. Do you like the idea of going bold but fearful of it taking over? Why not use a bright paint color as part of a shelving space or inside a nook?
Are you like my husband and obsessed, I mean passionate about creating the perfect home theatre area? Deep tones may be appropriate in this case. Don’t be afraid to use deep or darker tones in a basement. You may be surprised at how warm and cozy it makes the space feel.
Perhaps your basement is being used as an office space or place of business. Or your painting efforts may be to attract a good renter. Neutral tones – beiges, greys and blues may work best when appealing to guests or renters. Whatever the purpose of your space, there is a color to acknowledge that.
Basement paint colors to support existing features
There may be existing design features to consider when choosing a paint color for your basement. Do you have a brick wall that you want to highlight? You may want to go with a light, neutral paint tone that compliments the brick color. Do you already have a room full of furniture? Your current furniture and accessories may help direct the paint color you decide on. Do you have existing hardwood floors or concrete flooring? You may want to consider adding paint to your basement floors as well! From artistic designs to texture and depth, painting your basement floor is a creative way to add personality.
If you require assistance in choosing your basement paint colors, do not hesitate to contact the professionals at Home Painters Toronto. A knowledgeable associate will assist in choosing the best paint colors for your basement.
You may be wondering what color I decided on for my (husband’s) basement renovation. Well, we went with a warm blue with off-white trim for the theatre area. The color is fun and inviting – perfect for just hanging out with the family. But when its show time and the lights are off, it contributes to the theatre like feel my husband was opting for. Win-win.
Now that you’ve pondered a bit about what color to paint your basement, it’s time to get moving. Your basement is calling – go choose your paint colors!
