Basements are often the most neglected space in the home. They're dark, dank places that tend to be under-utilized and forgotten. But with some easy (and affordable) updates, your basement can be transformed into a new (and better!) living space. Here are some simple ideas for updating your basement.

1. Paint it Up

Painting your basement insulates the walls, prevents mold from growing, and keeps your room looking fresh and clean. Plus, painting is a cheap alternative to renovating or remodeling an entire room.

Some other things that can be painted: cabinets, countertops, flooring, and appliances. Painting these surfaces will instantly update the look of your room.

2. Open It Up

Instead of closing off rooms, open up your space to create an uninterrupted flow from one area of the basement to another. By removing walls and using furniture that can accommodate multiple functions, you can make it feel like one large room instead of a series of disconnected spaces. 

3. Add Some Light

Adding light in the basement will instantly brighten up any room (literally). It can also help to make it feel less like a basement and more like an actual living space. Incorporating skylights is one way to add natural light down below; however, they can come with a hefty price tag. There are affordable alternatives, however. Adding track lighting or installing recessed lights around the room is a great way to brighten up your basement without breaking the bank.



4. Add Flooring

Updating your flooring is another easy and relatively inexpensive way to makeover your basement. Laminate, tile, or linoleum are all less expensive alternatives to hardwood or carpet. When choosing the floor, consider the function of your room; for example, if you'll be using the room as a playroom for kids, then it may make sense to choose the flooring that's easy to clean or replace (like tile) instead of something like hardwood.

5. Use Accents to Personalize Your Room

After you've updated your basement, you must personalize the room as well. This helps create a sense of "home" and makes the space feel more inviting. Put up some pictures on the walls, add some new furniture or simply move around what you already have to make your room feel like it's yours.

You can also add accents to your basement that will give the room a cohesive look. Adding matching rugs, curtains, and other decor items can help to create a room that looks well put together without being too fussy or overdone.

We hope these simple ideas have helped you think about how you might update your own basement or other spaces around the house without breaking the bank. The next time you're looking for ways to save money on renovations, consider updating an unused area of your home instead - it will leave you feeling like this is YOUR HOME as opposed to someone else's old house!