Basement Furniture: What Works Best?

A woman and a man arranging furniture in a basement finished room.

Basements offer a unique opportunity for homeowners to expand their living space. Whether you’re setting up a cozy spare bedroom, a lively bar, or a fully finished additional living area, selecting the right furniture is key to maximizing both style and functionality. However, one must consider the logistical challenge of moving large furniture pieces down narrow and often steep basement stairs.

Last Updated: November 16, 2023

Basement Bars: Cheers to Style and Function

A bar cart that opens two doors to expand into storage for many bottle of spirits as well as glassware and an ice bucket.

Creating a bar in the basement is an excellent way to entertain guests and enjoy leisure time. Here, compactness and versatility are your allies. Opt for bar stools that are slim yet comfortable, ideally with adjustable heights to accommodate different counter sizes. A modular bar counter, which can be assembled in the basement, is a great solution, as it’s easier to transport in pieces. Additionally, consider wall-mounted shelves or cabinets for storing glasses and beverages, maximizing floor space while adding a stylish touch.

Finished Basements: Comfort Meets Versatility

A burnt orange fabric modular sectional couch with matching ottoman and a light brown leather accent chair

In a finished basement, the aim is to create a space that’s as welcoming and comfortable as the main living areas in your home. Sectional sofas are popular due to their versatility and comfort, but remember that large sections might not fit down the stairs. Look for sofas that come in smaller, manageable pieces, or opt for modular designs that can be easily assembled on-site. For entertainment units, go for modular or sectional pieces that can be easily moved and reconfigured.

Basement Spare Bedrooms: Cozy and Compact

Dark brown wood bedroom set including a queen bed, dresser with mirror, and a chest of drawers

When furnishing a basement spare bedroom, the focus should be maximizing space without sacrificing comfort. Murphy beds are an excellent choice as they can be folded up when not in use, freeing up floor space. Similarly, daybeds or sofa beds offer versatility, functioning as seating space during the day and a bed at night. Remember to measure your stairway before purchasing large items like bed frames or wardrobes. Look for disassemblable or flat-packed options if a piece is too large to fit.

Overcoming the Stairway Challenge

The biggest challenge in basement furnishing is often getting the furniture down the stairs. Here are a few tips:

  • Measure your stairway, including height, width, and any turns or landings.
  • Look for furniture that can be disassembled or comes in compact, flat-packed form.
  • Consider custom-built pieces that are designed to be assembled in the basement.
  • For larger items, look for pieces that disassemble into smaller parts and reassemble to make the whole furniture item.

Conclusion

In conclusion, furnishing a basement requires creativity, practicality, and foresight. By choosing the right furniture, you can transform your basement into a vibrant bar, a cozy spare bedroom, or a fully functional additional living space, all while navigating the unique challenges of basement accessibility.

Do You Need More Help?

You can contact one of Gardner White’s experts at (248) 481-2208, chat with one online, or visit one of our local Michigan stores.

Dave has been in the furniture industry in one capacity or another for the last decade. When not writing about furniture he enjoys cooking for his family, guitar playing, oil painting, the Detroit Tigers, and the comedic antics of English Bulldogs.