A Few Thoughts on Basements

By Paul Bielinski, CEO & VP

The lower level might not be the first thing on your mind when you start planning your future home, but a finished basement shouldn’t just be an afterthought. Here are two things to consider about basements when building a home.

FLEXIBILITY

Every Bielinski home comes with a basement. But what you do with all that extra space is totally up to you. Some folks decide to go with a classic Wisconsin rec room with a wet bar that’s perfect for watching a movie or hosting a party for the big game. Other folks like to turn that square footage into more living areas with bedrooms and another bathroom. There could be a children’s play area. A crafts room. A workshop. Extra storage. One thing we’ve seen a lot of during quarantine is using your lower-level space for a home fitness center.

The point is that a finished lower level gives you a lot of flexibility. Things that don’t fit in your main level or upper level can exist in the lower level. And even though each Bielinski floor plan has a paired finished lower-level plan, you can also choose to change it up to make something fitting your needs. 

PLANNING AHEAD

Even if you don’t plan on finishing your basement right away (or ever) it’s beneficial to think about it during home construction for a couple of reasons. Primarily, because one day you might change your mind. And when that day comes, a little bit of planning can save you a lot of time. Installing “rough-ins,” which allow plumbing access, makes the option to eventually finish your lower level much easier, as these rough-ins won’t have to be installed after your home is completed. 

Still convinced you’re never going to finish the lower level? Don’t be so sure. Even though we build our homes to last, you still might move out one day. And when that day comes, the extra amenities and square footage you create with a finished lower level can increase the value of your home by a lot. So even if finishing your basement isn’t on your wishlist, it’s important to plan ahead and give yourself the option in the future.

If you’re looking to move into a new home and finish your own basement, start by contacting a Bielinski New Home Consultant today and checking out our available floorplans.