Case Study
Bay Village English Pub Inspired Basement
Our Bay Village clients wanted to create a one-of-a-kind basement entertaining area. The homeowners love the atmosphere of traditional English pubs and wanted to emulate that vibe with an open bar and entertaining space that was truly something special. The project goals were complicated by the fact that the original layout was not conducive to the open entertaining space they were envisioning for the lower level of their home.
Creative design and construction solutions were required to change a cold, dark basement – comprised of many small spaces – into an exceptional living area with wow-worthy entertaining spaces. We delivered on our clients’ wish list with a stunning floor-to-ceiling remodel featuring dark custom woodwork and high-end, unique material selections and finishes.
Before + After
The existing basement was accessed through a narrow staircase with low ceiling clearance. The basement was dark and divided into several small spaces which made entertaining nearly impossible. The existing stairs, positioned in the center of the floor plan, created a visual obstacle between the connecting rooms. Outdated paneling and lighting left the basement feeling dark, dated, and uninviting.
Before
After
Before
After
The Details
Bar & Ceiling
A custom copper bar top and tin ceiling panels add charm and authenticity.
Glass Wall & Open Staircase
A glass wall separating the movie/family room and the bar/ billiard room allowed for open site lines. The design also included custom window treatments that can be lowered to separate the rooms and add more versatility to the space. The floating staircase and glass rail also add to the cohesiveness of the spaces.
Custom Millwork
To create the warm English pub feeling we added custom wood accents: corbels, rosettes, chair ledge, and wainscoting throughout.
We also incorporated fluted corbels and decorative plinth block accessories.
Glass Wall & Open Staircase
A glass wall separating the movie/family room and the bar/ billiard room allowed for open site lines. The design also included custom window treatments that can be lowered to separate the rooms and add more versatility to the space. The floating staircase and glass rail also add to the cohesiveness of the spaces.
Custom Millwork
To create the warm English pub feeling we added custom wood accents: corbels, rosettes, chair ledge, and wainscoting throughout.
We also incorporated fluted corbels and decorative plinth block accessories.
Flooring
We selected and installed a herringbone-patterned Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) pattern in leu of traditional wood for durability on the lower level.
Finishing Touches
Bold color choices for the wall paint were paired with a dramatic green subway backsplash tile. A unique brass foot rail, glass bar shelving, and custom lighting decor all contribute to the authentic English pub atmosphere.
Flooring
We selected and installed a herringbone-patterned Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) pattern in leu of traditional wood for durability on the lower level.
Finishing Touches
Bold color choices for the wall paint were paired with a dramatic green subway backsplash tile. A unique brass foot rail, glass bar shelving, and custom lighting decor all contribute to the authentic English pub atmosphere.
In the end, this complex renovation resulted in a space that the clients are proud to welcome friends and family to for a rowdy pint or quiet evening.
Challenges + Solutions & Results
Our Challenges
The staircase was so narrow with low head space, it was impossible to get larger materials and equipment to the basement. Small-set windows also added to the challenge of bringing in materials for the remodel. The central staircase location divided the basement in half, interrupting sightlines and the flow of the space. The numerous small rooms were incompatible with the clients’ desire for an open-concept bar and multi-faceted entertaining areas.
Our Solutions
To open up the space, existing walls and posts were removed and we added support for the new open spaces by adding a large steel beam. The only way to get the beam into the basement was through the small basement window. By adding this support, the walls and posts could come down, which was the only way to create the open space our clients desired.
We also completely rebuilt the staircase with floating treads and open stringers. The new staircase also features a custom glass rail. A full glass wall now separates the movie/family room on the opposite side of the main bar area to create visual continuity and a more expansive feel in both rooms.
The Results
The finished project resulted in a dramatic transformation. The basement went from boring and dark to refined and fabulous. The original basement, that was made up of several small spaces, is now a cohesive, one-of-a-kind space with custom features throughout. The intentional layout and design decisions, custom woodwork, and material selections fully captured the English pub aesthetic and created a warm and welcoming atmosphere.