Go Behind the Scenes
There’s a lot that happens between meeting us for the initial consultation to enjoying your new personalized space! Find out how this Orono family’s home basement went from underused to well-loved!
Back Story
Our homeowners Maggie & Matt knew their basement had potential, but it also had a difficult layout. After interviewing eight companies to find the best match, they were ready to move ahead with AMEK Design + Build’s team.
Priority Use Wishlist:
Never used, space hog
“We’d lived in our 1988 home for 6 years and it was beyond obvious the basement needed a remodel.”
Awkward Staircase Location
Back Story
Once upon a time in the heart of Minneapolis, Ken and Sarah lived in a charming 1961 Cape Cod home. As their family grew, so did their frustrations.
Wishlist:
“We dreamt of a home that could accomodate our family.”
Limited storage space
Dysfunctional and awkward layout
To get started on several design concepts, our AMEK team measured the space in its existing state. This as-built step provides the base plate for ideas to be formed. It’s important to know where mechanicals like heating and cooling, electric runs, and plumbing pipes are located.
Back Story
The day Matt and Maggie meet with our design team to reveal the concepts is an exciting one. The variations showed the potential layouts for the theater room, changes to the stair area, and placement for the workout room. Matt and Maggie’s winning plan reallocated some hallway space for the theater room and the workout area was enclosed with glass to provide a bright space.
Solution Number 1: Sink in center island, Kitchenette, Table area on the right hand side
Solution Number 2: Sink in line with counter, Window added above sink, Table area on the left hand side
Concept Number 1: Open concept from kitchen into living room, family connects to living room and added additional room
Line drawings of envisioned spaces
Original Floor Plan
Remodel Floor Plan
The Selections
Now for the finishing touches: selections! Maggie and Matt were looking for a clean, transitional look for lights, trim, flooring, etc. Our AMEK team walked through the selections step-by-step, so everything coordinates and fits within the new space.
Elements Based On:
Complementing the main levels of home
Easy-Care Finishes
Family friendly & fun features
The Selections
The AMEK team guided Sarah and Ken through the selection process with a focus on:
Modern touch with traditional character
Honoring house’s original character
Modern, easy-to-clean finishes
The Transformation
When we listened to our clients’ frustrations, we promised the new space would enhance the way they use the space. Mission accomplished. It’s ready for all members of the family to enjoy the lower level.
Now Showing!
Everything is a feature – the bright and open layout, the customized hobby room, the guest bedroom and bathroom, inspiring workout room, and the main attraction – the movie zone. The kids’ friends love having sleepovers, Mom gets in her daily workouts, and Dad has an organized place to care for his archery and paddling interests. Everyone is happy!
Dramatic lighting features, ceiling, and cabinetry
Bright & Sleek
Cozy & Open Seating
For tools, supplies, plus bow and paddle display
When the remodel transformation was complete, Sarah and Ken were overjoyed. The open-concept kitchen with thoughtful design is a joy to cook in while watching the kids play, the new upstairs bathroom and laundry area make daily chores easier, and the dining room is perfect for family meals and entertaining.
Connected layout
Built-in buffet for
serving and storage
Added space for the family additions
Thoughtful kitchen design
9401 James Ave S, Suite 170
Bloomington, MN 55431
M-F | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Also by appointment
