If you’re designing a basement, toss the idea of a dark, dingy space out the window, and instead consider all of the options for this extra square footage. Build out a guest suite, play room, entertaining center, and more with a vibrant scheme full of inventive lighting.
Don’t let the lack of full windows get in the way of having a space you’ll love. Plus, a finished basement is a great selling point if you later decide to put your home on the market.
Check out our favorite basement ideas.
Plug-in Sconces
Embrace the moodiness of a basement with an inviting color palette. Emily Henderson’s photographer, Kaitlin Green, now has a space for the whole family with green paneling, a velvet couch, and plug-in sconces. The sconces add 70s-style flare and frame the artwork.
3-Light Flush Mount
A brass flush mount is the final detail to this sitting room anchored by primary palette, statement fireplace, and cool accessories. Flush mount lights are ideal for rooms with lower ceilings and are a great way to still make an impactful design statement.
Starbust Flush Mount
Another flush mount to adore is a starburst light which will add playfulness to a space. New York-based Krysten Brock Interiors went glam with stone, tile, and shades of blue in this basement.
Simple Picture Light
Sconces in a basement? Yes, please. In this space, casual gray chairs pair with an oversized beach photo and graphic rug.
Mix-and-Match Sconces and Table Lamps
A gold table lamp stands out in this basement update from designer Emily Henderson, while a slim black sconce pairs with the woodsy gallery wall. Like in her other basement project, she chose comfortable, rich colors and an array of fixtures.
Chic, Modern Pendants
Who wouldn’t want to hangout in this basement? It’s full of color, style, and plenty of light thanks to multiple fixtures. Above the dining table, there’s a circular pendant, while the bar features a contemporary linear one.
Two-Light Flush Mount
Slim, simple, and classic, a brass two-light flush mount and black bedside lamp are lighting choices which will go with any design style. This basement bedroom, which is given a breezy makeover with white paint, also has a small-profile metal bed, plants, and macrame wall art.
Single Oversized Sconce
Brighten up your basement laundry with a light that won’t take up too much space. Gone are the days of heading downstairs to do laundry in a poorly lit space.
Classic Flush Mount
A simple black flush mount should be on everyone’s list when shopping for fixtures. It works well in this basement mudroom, not taking up too much headspace and allowing for the art and paint color to be the focus.
Plug-In Sconce and Semi Flush Mount
Vibrant yellow paint, velvet furniture, and plants has this basement screaming with 70s style. A plug-in sconce and semi flush mount pendant elevate the bright palette and keep it feeling cheery at all times of day.
Semi Flush Mount
A semi flush mount, a light that extends a few inches below the ceiling, brightens up this newly finished basement gym. Wallpaper, a neon sign, and repurposed shelving add to the joy.
Simple Wall-Mounted Sconces
Make the most of a basement bedroom with a design that you and your guests will adore. Wainscotting, wallpaper, and slim sconces easily transform this small downstairs bedroom.
Scones That Match the Walls
When you’re working in a small space and need a light source (or two), consider adding narrow sconces like these nickel sconces Emily Henderson chose for this basement bar.
Multi-Light Pendant
Blue paneling, leather, and vintage art make this basement office pop. A light fixture that can hold its own adds both style and much-needed light. When picking out lighting, pay attention to scale and how it fits with the rest of your furnishings.
Minimalist Pendant
Juxtaposition works wonders in this kid’s basement hangout. A black ceiling nearly conceals the minimalist pendant light, while white walls make the space feel nice and open. Add in rainbow-colored arcade games and it easily becomes a space kids of all ages will adore.
Small Chandelier
Low ceilings can be challenging in a basement, but one way to open up space is to expose the beams in the ceiling. Designer Caroline Kopp did just that with this basement renovation. Light and airy may not naturally go hand-in-hand with basement design, but it sure does here.
Large Double Sconces
This basement plays up light and dark, cozy and fresh with a navy vanity, walk-in shower, white subway tile, and oversized double sconces flanking the mirror. Since this space lacks a window, it’s important to have as much light as possible.
Complementary Table and Floor lamps
With any space lacking light, it’s key to include multiple ways to bring in light. In this basement office, a sleek floor lamp and similarly designed black desk lamp will make sure the homeowners are able to work even on dark, cloudy days.
Sculptural Pendant
This simple yet memorable sculptural pendant lightens up this basement dining room from Texas designer Erin Williamson A bar, black table, and textured stone wall make it feel organic and open.
Can Lights
Canadian designer Michelle Berwick helped her clients double their living space by finishing their basement. Light with can lights and a faux fireplace for a warm glow, it’s now a spot for family nights. There’s also a bathroom, laundry room, and plenty of storage.