How to Turn Your Basement Into a Play Room

Children are naturally drawn to the many possibilities that lie within the hidden spaces of a home's basement. Due to its placement in the home, a basement can be the ideal place to set up a children's play room where they have room to explore and space to be noisy without bothering the rest of the house. If you are planning to renovate your basement into a play room, then there are several things you will want to consider when developing a plan for decorating this space.

Consider Wall Treatments
Many basements contain unfinished walls made of cement or cinder blocks. Although they are functional, these walls can be cold and dreary to children who prefer bright areas to play. To cover these walls, consider using wall panels or paint. If it is not possible to cover the cement, then try hanging curtains or install brightly colored shelves that can soften their appearance.

Install Comfortable Flooring
Young children spend much of their time playing on the floor. In a basement, it is common to have cement floors that are cold and hard. While carpet may not be an option due to the possibility of flooding, tile can be used to finish the floor while also providing protection from spills and dirt. Additionally, throw rugs can be placed in specific play areas to help define the room while giving children a place to build with blocks or roll their trucks.

Include Bright Colors
Play rooms should always be bright and cheerful. In addition to adequate lighting, the right color scheme can brighten up a room. Consult with your children about their favorite colors, and then find a way to implement them throughout the play room. Colorful furniture, shelves and throws can all be used to make the room more child-friendly while still maintaining the basement's basic structure.

Set Up Play Centers
When playing, children often move from one activity to another without pausing long in between. To encourage play, you can set up play centers that are planned according to specific activities. For example, children who enjoy reading can benefit from having a library area that is stocked with a comfortable chair and plenty of books. Older children and teens may also enjoy having an entertainment station that has all of their favorite games and music available.

Plan for Technology
Although most basements are equipped with electricity, they may not have all of the supports that are needed for the technology that many children enjoy. Therefore, it may be necessary to ensure that the basement area is in reach for Internet services and other types of media. Additionally, a telephone or wireless video monitor can be used to keep watch over the children while they play in the basement.

A play room is a wonderful addition to any home that can offer children a place to play where they will not disturb the other members of the household. Basements are an ideal place to establish a play room because they offer a large amount of space for the children to explore. By carefully planning the layout, furniture and technological needs of the basement, anyone can transform this space into a vibrant and inviting area in which children can play.