Columbine Basement Remodel

After relocating from out of state with their two toddlers, our clients found their ideal home in Biltmore Park. While the house offered great bones and charm, the unfinished 1,600-square-foot basement didn’t reflect their true style. They envisioned a space that could welcome visiting family while serving as a retreat for relaxation, entertaining, and everyday use.

We began by addressing the essentials—installing an interior waterproofing system with a perimeter foundation drain that would ensure long-term protection against moisture.

From there, we reimagined the space with a layout and level of finish that rivaled the main living space. We added a new slab to a large area that was previously gravel to maximize the heated square footage of this home. This new space allowed us to encapsulate the HVAC into the now-conditioned space as well as create a dedicated utility room. A new workshop space for tinkering and home projects was created at the rear of the home, connecting to the exterior.

The open-concept room features a kitchenette that strikes a clean and contemporary contrast. Featuring deep brown custom-painted cabinetry, aged brass hardware, and a gorgeous book-matched quartz backsplash that spans the entire wall, the design is as functional as it is elegant. A built-in shelf and gallery lighting offer subtle refinement, while a compact bar sink and under-counter fridge make it perfect for entertaining.

The centerpiece of this remodel is a prohibition-era-inspired Speakeasy, discreetly hidden behind a custom-built door. Finished painted millwork, coffered ceilings, warm-toned wood floors, and reclaimed brick created a space that evokes both mystery and charm. Custom cabinetry with seeded glass doors and interior lighting offers a proper stage for our client’s extensive bourbon collection. Custom-made leather couches and decor elevated the room into a personalized and immersive experience.

The new guest room anchors the opposite end of the basement, allowing guests to have their own private entrance from the exterior. The bedroom is simple and restful. The large closet has ample clothing storage and extra space for luggage. The entire room is well-lit by natural daylight throughout the day, with views of the forest.

The new bathroom takes on a more expressive tone, featuring a spacious walk-in shower with large matte-finish porcelain tile, creating a bold and dramatic look of natural stone. A vintage green vanity with earthy tones offers a touch of tradition contrasted by Carrara white quartz counters. Brushed gold hardware and faucet fixtures introduce a pop of warmth and elegance, harmonizing beautifully with natural tones and upscale finishes.

Capping off the renovation is a custom-fabricated black steel door with clear glass panes at the top of the new white oak basement stairs. It serves both aesthetic and practical purposes: a striking visual threshold between floors and a thoughtful barrier for sound, kids, and pets. The result is a basement that elevates the home.