BASEMENTS
A basement is a potential location of the new family entertainment area, sleeping accommodation or even an opportunity to create a separate self-contained unit. Depending on where you live and the existing layout of your house, there might be several options to convert the basement.
The most cost-effective basement conversion is achieved by turning an existing cellar into valuable living space. Many existing cellars have a sufficient headroom and therefore no significant structural works are required. However, the original cellars are usually dark places with no windows and proper ventilation. The conversion could include the excavation of a new lightwell at the front or the rear of the house to allow the natural daylight into the room.
The more complex project is the excavation of the new basement or the extension of the existing. These works would require very accurate drawings and structural calculations. Building Control inspectors, Party Wall surveyors and checking engineers would be fully involved prior any commencement of works on site. The scale of the new basement project would depend on many factors. Detailed site investigation allows to reveal the most suitable construction method and to prepare the estimated cost of works.
The most common use of the converted or extended basement space:
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Media Room
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Gym
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Playroom
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Guest Bedrooms
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Self-contained unit with separate entrance
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Courtyard