One of the most important considerations when constructing a basement for living space is the use of light. Many of us have an image of basements in our student days as dank and musty places but that need no longer be the case. Advances in design and lighting technologies mean that basements can be as well lit as the spaces above. Modern low voltage lighting can provide a restful natural light which emulates natural light very closely and permits a more natural use of spaces. At the same time, clients are always eager to maximise the use of all available natural light. Light wells, skylights, high level windows and sunken patios all have a role to play in getting light to enter the space.
In most cases it is possible to build or retrofit a basement under the house and under the garden to the rear or the front. In this way a vast amount of space is freed up. To help light this large area client often decide to have a roof light opening to the garden above. This roof light made from toughened glass permits huge amounts of light of light to flood the space below while not affecting the clients use of the garden above.
To maintain that feeling of light filled space it is important to ensure that there only a minimum number of obstructions to the passage of light. In many cases we will use a double glass door, which permits light from one room to enter the corridor or an adjoining room. Another useful trick is to use a simple glass sheet instead of a traditional timber banister. This permits light to flow freely from the top of the stairs and enliven the circulating space at the foot of the stairs or vice versa.
Once the light has entered the living area mirrors do an excellent job in flooding the space with light. This point should be considered for all types of construction not just basements. We have often used a mirror clad structurally required arch to reflect light around the living space. Another way to achieve the same effect is by having some windows, possibly made from glass bricks in the interior walls between rooms that open pathways for natural light to reach interior rooms. Mirrors can also be used in corridors and smaller rooms to give the illusion of space as well as amplify light.
Well designed basements are a joy to inhabit Artificial light is key to how we use living space, this is equally true of basements as it is of any other construction.
A good clutter free design will ensure that basements are welcoming living spaces. For example we recommend using indirect lighting that splashes large pools of light on the ceiling. This will open up the space and make rooms appear higher than they are. A mix of this, up-lighting and traditional recessed lighting will give you the flexibility you need to create a variety of lighting moods.
If requested we can arrange a consultation with one of the UK's foremost lighting artists at no extra cost!
If we could show you a way to get more space in your home, without the hassle of moving would you be interested?