Posted by Elizabeth Warren on Tue, Jan 12, 2010 @ 07:58 AM
A ‘home improvement' is only an ‘improvement' IF: style meets function within the established budget and the finished project truly enhances your lifestyle. I often make this point to clients as we work together to both solve the original issues of a space and to maximize the user experience in terms of comfort and mood. I kept it in mind as well when planning a recent project for my own home, and I'm thrilled and amazed at the result.
My mission was to update a basement recreation area primarily used by my children, transforming it into a family room that we could all enjoy. The existing space had issues in that it wasn't very comfortable for adults and it needed adequate storage for games, CD's and electronics without crowding the area. I decided to paint the walls in a medium tone, tan with a hint of chocolate to it, and to carpet the area in beige with a multicolored fleck. Replacing the doors leading into the space really helped to create an inviting first impression. Little details like new, neatly painted trim and subtle lighting elevate the overall effect. 
Yet by far the best change is the entertainment center, a custom storage system from Otter Creek Custom Closets. The unit has a rich, cherry finish and fits precisely from floor to ceiling with crown molding. It's 14" deep although wider depths are available, and 8' long, giving us plenty of storage for books, music and other items without monopolizing the room. A pleasant surprise, this unit retails for $2,579 including professional installation. In contrast, the entertainment centers I found from traditional furniture makers were hundreds or even thousands of dollars more expensive and of course, they were not custom-sized. Like many basements, the height of our ceiling is not standard and we needed a particular length to fit the wall and make the best use of space. Now, we have a built-in entertainment system that looks clean and polished and fits in beautiful proportion to the room.
Initially I was most impressed by how the room looked, but now I am most impressed by how the room functions. We have found it to be a natural gathering place and truly a relaxing spot for both the kids and the adults in the family. Simply creating a space deliberately designed for hanging out, watching a movie or playing games has made such a positive difference in how we spend our family time together, and how much. A home is truly improved when the project meets budgetary considerations while combining style and function that results in greater use and pleasure in the space.
For a free estimate and design consultation on a custom entertainment center unit, contact Otter Creek at 802-864-3009 to schedule an appointment. If you are grappling with other storage needs, call to learn about the possibilities for all types of closets, pantries, mudrooms, playrooms, home offices, craft centers, and more!