Residential Basement Renovation - BloomField Hills, Michigan
We recently completed an approximately 300 square foot basement renovation for a returning customer in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, turning it into not only a beautiful but also very functional area.
For the flooring, we installed luxury vinyl plank (LVP) throughout the area. LVP is a durable, low maintenance option that's perfect for below grade spaces while still delivering the natural look of real wood.
The space also received new plywood shaker cabinetry paired with granite countertops, creating a clean and modern finish. A wet bar area was also added, complete with a built in beverage fridge, black matte fixtures, and an undermount sink, making the space perfect for entertaining. Base and case trim were installed throughout to give every room crisp, cohesive lines, and the walls and trim were freshly painted from top to bottom for a bright, polished feel.
This bathroom portion of this renovation has a fully tiled floor to ceiling shower with a sleek, frameless Euro style glass door and a built in niche for a spa like touch.
Frequently Asked Questions During Projects Like This
What's the best flooring option for a finished basement in Michigan?
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP), like the flooring used in this project, is one of the top choices for basements because it's very waterproof and holds up well against the moisture and temperature swings common in below-grade spaces. Unlike hardwood or laminate, LVP won't warp or swell if it's exposed to humidity, making it a low maintenance, long lasting option for a space like this in Michigan.
What is a frameless Euro shower door and why choose one?
A frameless Euro shower door is a glass shower enclosure built without the metal framing found around traditional shower doors, giving it a cleaner, more modern look. Beyond the aesthetic, frameless doors are easier to keep clean since there's less metal trim for soap scum and grime to build up on, making them a popular upgrade in basement bathroom renovations.
Is a wet bar a good addition to a finished basement?
A wet bar is one of the most popular basement upgrades because it adds real functionality for entertaining without the cost or complexity of a full kitchen. Adding a small sink and beverage fridge, like the setup in this project, gives homeowners a convenient spot for drinks and snacks while keeping guests out of the main kitchen upstairs.
How much does it cost to finish a basement in Michigan?
Costs vary widely depending on square footage, finishes, and whether plumbing (like a new shower or wet bar) is involved, but basements with higher end finishes such as granite or quartz countertops, a wet bar, and a tile shower will run higher than a basic finish with carpet and drywall. Getting a walkthrough and quote is the best way to get an accurate number for your specific space.
What are the pros and cons of plywood cabinets?
Plywood cabinets are generally considered a step up from particleboard or MDF because they hold screws more securely, resist warping from moisture better, and tend to hold up longer under everyday wear and tear, which matters in a basement where humidity can be a factor. The main downside is cost because plywood cabinet boxes typically run more expensive than particleboard alternatives, and the second downside could be the surface can be slightly less smooth for certain paint or veneer finishes. For most basement renovations, the added durability and moisture resistance make plywood a worthwhile upgrade, especially in areas near a wet bar or bathroom.
What flooring should I avoid in a Michigan basement?
Solid hardwood is generally the flooring to avoid in a Michigan basement, since it's prone to warping, cupping, and swelling when exposed to the moisture and humidity swings common in below-grade spaces, especially through Michigan's freeze-thaw winters. Traditional carpet can also be risky, since it holds moisture and can develop mold or mildew if there's ever a leak or flooding. Solid laminate that isn't specifically water resistant is another one to be cautious with. Waterproof options like LVP (luxury vinyl plank) or tile tend to hold up far better in Michigan basements.
