ARCHITECTURE - CONSTRUCTION - INTERIOR DESIGN Total project integration and management
Basement design is literally the beginning and the end when it comes to the success of your basement conversion, from initial discussions on how to arrange the space, down to the final interior fittings.
Taking the decision to invest in a basement conversion should be done with careful thought and preparation, with particular thought given to how the new space will be used, and how existing areas will be redefined to work alongside it.
We have deployed many innovative designs to provide flexible basement spaces that maximize room space; minimise hallway space; and always give a natural sense of place within the basement.
OLBC will be delighted to take you to view finished basements to help you with ideas for basement plans and inspiration on how you would like it to look.
We assign great importance to the passage of natural light to the converted basement areas, and therefore the design of the basement light well is crucial. Many choose a metal grille to cover their front light well, and in many situations this is the only practical option. However, we will discuss a number of potential options for your basement plans, assessing the practicality of basement light wells at the front, rear or sides of your home.
We are constantly developing new ways to link the basement not only to the rest of the house via the main staircase, but also to the front and rear of the property via light wells or by using landscaping techniques. Each house and garden is carefully assessed for its potentials and drawbacks, and a design is created to maximise the light to the basement and connection with all the surroundings.
Technologies for waterproofing a basement have moved on considerably. Pumped tanking systems with a membrane system are preferable to cementious tanking systems that are inflexible and therefore prone to cracking as soil contracts in dry weather. The membrane system provides both a vapour and a moisture barrier, allowing water to pass behind the membrane into a sump where it can be pumped out into the main drainage system harmlessly. Back up pumps, high level warning systems and other alerts are available to customers, and we will always advise whatever precautions we consider appropriate for your particular soil conditions.
Our design team will lead you from an initial consultation on how you use your home and what a basement could offer, through to the architectural style, fit out and furnishing of your new basement conversion.
Alongside questions of how the basement space will work practically and aesthetically, there is also the question of how the new basement will work together with the existing house. Either by carefully assimilating the feel of the basement with the original style of the house, or by creating a complimentary modern space suitably connected to the upper floors, OLBC will work to ensure that your visions are exceeded.
Our bespoke service will ensure your design fits your taste and budget.
Bespoke design clients can take advantage of the OLBC design team’s experience, including 3D imaging, mood and sample boards and showroom visits. Other bespoke items include storage and TV / AV units, basement wine cellars, basement swimming pools, gyms and other luxury features.
Our interior design team can also furnish your basement conversion down to the final touches, and can offer you discounts on your orders.
Please see Design and costing service for information on our complete turnkey service or return the online enquiry form to find out more about the services we offer.
Our experience of this type of specialist work means we are able to provide you with a swift and reliable estimate for such a project in your own home. In every case, we will initially offer an estimate for the work, and if you wish us to prepare your project for commencement we work with you to produce a detailed specification and quotation for contract. Our project values for basement conversions are typically in the region of £120,000 to £600,000+VAT.
The cost of basement construction is divided into two phases - the structural basement work and the fit-out of the new basement space. Basement excavation costs are relatively predictable, and therefore we have always fixed the cost of our structural work, something we are very proud of and encourage clients to consider when comparing prices.
OLBC delivers completely bespoke basement design. However, an increasing percentage of our clients are very keen on knowing what the cost of their basement conversion will be and what it will look like before they commit. The BasementsWorks fixed price package pulls together a selection of our most popular bathroom, utility, and decorative designs at heavily reduced rates unavailable elsewhere. Even so, there are many choices available within each of our bronze, silver and gold packages. All products offered are universally regarded as top quality.
Please contact us or return the online enquiry form
