Whether you're remodeling your basement or building a custom home from scratch, you'll need to know what you want the updated basement design to look like. Luckily, a building contractor can help you narrow down the available options and determine what features you should include in the newly finished space. From recreational rooms to practical home additions, here are some exciting options to consider for your downstairs space.

What to Add to a Custom Basement

1. Bar Area

Some nights, you may not feel like going out but still want to enjoy a drink or two with friends. Adding a bar area to your basement provides a comfortable space that is separate from the rest of the house and can be reserved for parties and gatherings right at home. A bar can be installed with shelf space for different liquors or areas to show off your souvenir bottles and glasses from vacations. Pair this with a drink mix booklet, a sleek bartop, and some barstools, and you'll be impressing guests with your bartending skills in no time.

2. Games

Playing games with family and friends can be a fun way to relax and unwind. However, large game set-ups can be hard to fit in most areas of the home. Luckily, a building contractor can help you transform part of your basement into a gamer's paradise—complete with a pool table, ping-pong set-up, or foosball, making it the go-to hangout area for get-togethers. If your friends and family prefer video games, consider adding arcade cabinets to your basement instead for a fun and nostalgic feel. 

3. Library

Every book lover knows that books take up a lot of space. Adding bookshelves in your basement provides a space for you to keep the stories that are near and dear to you. A building contractor can even add a small nook with a seat and pillows to create a comfy reading area. After adding a home library, you'll only be one step away from creating a home office. Add a desk and ergonomic chair to create the perfect workspace, isolated from household noise for maximum concentration.

4. Gym

Finding a place to keep large gym equipment can be a challenge. Fortunately, a refinished basement is a perfect place for an easily accessible at-home gym. Basements provide ample space for treadmills, exercise bikes, and weight benches. Having this space isolated from the rest of the house also minimizes disruptions for the rest of the family and provides added privacy for whoever is exercising.

If you need help designing and finishing your basement, contact Prairie Home Builders in Lincoln, NE. This family-owned company has over 30 years of experience building over 1,300 homes. Whether you need a home built in a narrow space or need floor plans for a larger family, these building contractors can help. Call (402) 476-6599 to request an estimate, and visit the website to view their gallery of completed jobs.