This past winter wasn't any different. I started a cowboy quilt for Farmer Boy and I began helping Songbird with a nine patch quilt for a 4-H project; neither of which is completed ... yet. However, in addition to completing a few homemade Christmas gifts, and my sewing alcove and closet, I wanted to update our basement "den". I am happy to report that, aside from hanging some artwork on the walls, I did get it finished.
Here's the before and after:
BEFORE: We had a daybed and a full size bed in the basement den. I tried using bolsters and throw pillows to make for comfortable "sofa" type seating, but they remained very uncomfortable when sitting on them. Also, they never looked very nice as the covers, pillows and such were always a mess, especially after the kiddos finished watching a movie or playing a board game.
BEFORE: In addition to watching movies, this room is often used as a "play room" for little visitors. The cupboards store our camping supplies, a few boxes of keepsakes, window fans and non-electric heaters. More than 4 years ago Grandpa and Mr.B told me they would convert the plywood panels that are leaning against the cupboards into doors. This winter, I found myself still waiting.
AFTER: I donated the daybed and full sized bed to a family in need and replaced them with a sleeper sofa. With a sleeper sofa, we can still use this room for extra guests if all the upstairs beds are taken. I changed the window coverings, added a prettier throw rug and "purged" many of the toys, books and movies. The storage ottoman keeps bedding for the sleeper sofa convenient and out of sight. Unfortunately, Mr.B's unsightly treadmill still takes up a lot of space in this room. But it is frequently used during the winter months and I certainly do not want it in my living room or bedroom.
AFTER: The plywood panels are gone and have been replaced with fabric panels. The draping fabric panels look so much nicer than plywood leaning against the cupboards. Also, since we no longer have to move a 4 ft. by 4 ft. sheet of plywood our storage is easier to access.
What sort of projects did you work on this winter?
I love what you did with your basement/den! It looks so much more open and cheery now. :) Good job!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Debbie.
DeleteOur someday "big" project for this room is to install a drop ceiling. I think that would totally transform it from a basement atmosphere into a "real" room atmosphere.
Blessings,
Mrs.B
Your after is much better. I know just what you mean abou the day bed and bed always looking messy in a play room. For now, we took the bed out of the playroom/bedroom and just have toys, a changing table and clothes and 2 comfy chairs. It's much easier for the littles to play and more pleasant for any bigs who sit in there and watch them.
ReplyDeleteProjects this winter? I mostly just through it :) having an active toddler around is fun but I don't get much else accomplished. N
Hello Mrs. Rhonda,
DeleteThank you for stopping by. In addition to installing a drop ceiling in this room, I also have future plans to frame out the door and replace the dark curtains with a real door.
Blessings to you and yours,
Mrs.B
It looks so nice after all your work, Mrs. B! So cheery and welcoming.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sarah. Because this is a dark basement, I chose the buttery yellow color pallet to lighten up the room. I like how the gray sofa and other ebony furnishings compliment the yellow. The darker furniture also hides messy kid spills and fingerprints well.
DeleteHave a terrific day,
Mrs.B