Cozy Farmhouse Style Basement Tour
You guys, I am SO excited for today’s post because I finally get to share our new and improved farmhouse style basement! I’ve been slowly working on this space for a few months now (it all started with this black door transformation) and I am so happy with how it’s all come together. I’ve always said our basement is the “kid zone” and because of that it’s been a space that I’ve tried to keep pretty minimal in terms of decor and even furniture, which is really why I don’t share it here on the blog very often. But over time the basement has slowly become a hodge podge space for the most part, with mismatched furniture and random things that didn’t really go together very well. It’s basically been a hot mess to say the least, which is ridiculous because it’s such a great space with tons of natural light and we actually do spend a lot of time down there. But I finally got fed up and decided to it was time to give the basement a little attention and TLC. I shared the changes I’ve made so far in the bar area last week, but today I want to give you a look at how the basement is looking now. I’ve got about 311 photos to share, so get comfortable!
The first big change in here is the new couches. I searched and searched and searched for the perfect couches for this space and it honestly took me weeks to make a decision. But I finally decided on these super affordable, slip-covered Ikea couches–we got the sofa and the loveseat. I’ve heard rave reviews about these for years now, so I’ve always been interested in trying them out. Plus I wanted something slip covered so I could easily wash them as needed. Things get messy with kids and I LOVE having the ability to just slip these covers off and freshen them up in the wash. That was a big priority for me. It’s been a few weeks with these new sofas and we are loving them so far. They are actually really cozy and comfortable. I haven’t had to wash the covers yet, but I’ll be sure to update down the road on how these are holding up.
After changing things up in our front room recently, I was able to bring this oversized chair and ottoman down into the basement. I honestly wasn’t sure if it would work down here, and I even thought about selling it, but it’s actually perfect for this space. We just had to move things around a zillion times to find the right spot for it!
Another big change in here was adding more storage for all the toys and books. Like I said earlier, this is definitely the kid zone, so there are tons of toys down here and I needed a better way to keep them organized. I got these oversized baskets (from Michaels) to store and hide all their things and it’s been so nice to have more organization down here.
You might remember that we had a really great play area set up in this far corner of the basement. It was awesome, but honestly the kids stopped playing it in as often as they used to and most of the time they were only using the little writing table. So we moved that table over into the living area (pics of that soon!) and we’ve decided to turn this corner into an office space for me. I am SO excited. All I need is a desk, which I’m hoping to get in the next week or so. I’ll be sharing more of this corner soon, but here’s a little peek for now!
This biggest challenge in our basement is setting everything up around the two large posts right in the middle of the room. They are such a nuisance, but I finally figured out that using our oversized armchair and ottoman positioned at an angle was the best way to make this work. We literally had to spend hours moving furniture around to find the perfect combo of things that worked, but I think this is the best option for this room and our existing TV setup.
I love having the kids little writing table over here instead of in the back corner. They use it all the time, so it’s nice to have it right in the middle of everything. And it fits perfectly under that window!
Our basement makeover started by painting those french doors black (see the tutorial here). That was the first step and I think it’s still my favorite. It was such a simple change, and it didn’t take much time at all, but it made such a big difference down here.
There are still a few small things I need to do down here–we’re actually planning to replace the windows because they are super old and failing, but for the most part the living area in our basement is done. It honestly feels like a whole new space with all the changes. I love the updates we’ve made, but I also like that it’s still simple too. I prefer to keep the decor and extra stuff really minimal down here, just because it is the kids’ space and I want it to be comfortable and relaxed for them. But even though everything is pretty basic, I still feel like it’s really cozy.
Thanks for taking a little tour of our farmhouse style basement. If you stuck it out through all those photos you deserve some kind of reward. Or at least a cupcake.
Sources & Similar Products:
paint color: Merino Wool by Sherwin Williams
curtains: DIY drop cloth curtains (tutorial here)
Sofa: Ikea
The Comments
Marilyn S.
It’s just perfect – kid friendly without being a “kiddie” room . It’s got that Sarah touch.
Candace
> Marilyn S.Sarah, I love ❤️❤️❤️❤️ Everything! Wow! The couches are from IKEA…they are awesome…I would love to have my home like yours..I am stating to buy the Decor Steals once I knew about it from the group of Farmhouse shiplap…
I am going to try,the drop clothes just as soon as I go back to Michigan to buy them at Harbour Freight…I live in Canada so we don’t have them here. You are an amazing designer
Have a great day, Candace
Candace
> CandaceOops, I can’t spell today! Lol should be “starting” and “ cloths”
Sarah
> CandaceOh that’s awesome, you will love drop cloth curtains!! So easy and affordable. I have them all over our house! Thanks so much for stoping by, I’m so happy to have you here!! xo
Sarah
> Marilyn S.That’s exactly what I was going for Marilyn!
Alicia
Sarah I love the refresh!! And once agin you’ve created a space that is beautiful but cozy and welcoming. I love about your whole house!! It helps me see that I don’t have to choose style over comfort when creating a space for my family❤️
Sarah
> AliciaAw thank you Alicia, that’s exactly what I was going for!
Linna Grøn
Aww it looks great! You have really made the most of the space. And congrats with the new office. Must be nice finally having a designated work area 🙂
Sarah
> Linna GrønThanks Linna, I can’t wait to get the office set up!
Jan
Am new to your site, but I am loving what you do and how you do it!!!! Have already absorbed one of your amazing ideas. Waiting for the next edition. J
Sarah
> JanAw thank you so much Jan, I really appreciate it. And happy to have you here! xo
Cristin
I see in a lot of your pics that you have several light throw blankets for the summertime. Can you give me some ideas on where to get some? I’m looking for creams and whites. Your room looks great!
Sarah
> CristinYes!! Pretty much every throw blanket I have is from Target!
Pat
Looks great! I’ve been considering a slip-covered sofa so I clickec on your link to the Ikea one and read about it. Under care instructions it said:
Care instructions
Machine wash warm, normal cycle.
To be washed separately.
Do not bleach.
Do not tumble dry.
Iron high.
Dry clean any solvent except trichloroethylene.
I will be very curious to read your update as to how it holds up since it says not to bleach and not to tumble dry!
Lisa
> PatPat, I have this Ikea sofa and a chair with the white slipcovers. Yes, it is best not to tumble dry these slipcovers because they will shrink. So it is best to air them dry. Also, instead of bleach I use Oxyclean White Revive in the wash load and pretreat stains with Oxyclean stain remover. This should maintain the white slipcovers really well. These slipcovers are very affordable so you can also buy extra too when you need a change. Oh and I haven’t ironed mine at all. They don’t need it if you air them dry. Just shake them out and let them dry. Plus I don’t mind alittle wrinkle or two in them. 🙂
Pat
> LisaOh awesome! Thanks for the info!
Sarah
> Lisathat is GREAT info Lisa, thanks so much for sharing!! xo
Sarah
> PatThanks Pat! I’m actually planning to wash it with OxiClean and normal detergent. I’ve heard from a few others and that’s how they recommend washing it!
Pamela
Such a gorgeous space! Very cozy and inviting.
Sarah
> Pamelathanks so much Pamela! xo
Donna Bergthold
Wow! Looks beautiful Sarah! So comfy & cozy! Wish I had that eye for decorating like you do! Thanks for sharing!
Sarah
> Donna BergtholdAw thanks Donna, it’s a lot of trial and error!
Kristi
This is such a great space Sarah!! Amazing job!
Sarah
> Kristiaw thanks for stopping by my friend! xo
Adnana
I don’t have words to describe how much I like it!!! Your taste and skills are just amazing!
Sarah
> AdnanaYou are way too sweet, thank you so much!! xo
Sheila
I love how you used the Coca Cola crate. Cute idea.
Sarah
> Sheilathanks Sheila! It makes a fun container for crayons.
Marty Oravetz
Such a fabulous space. I love it.
Sarah
> Marty Oravetzthanks so much Marty!
Lisa Lindemann
Where did you get the kid’s writing table? It would be perfect for my 4 little grand kids when they are visiting Grammy. Love LVN…always a sweet start to my day!
Sarah
> Lisa LindemannThat’s from Birch Lane, you can find it here: https://rstyle.me/n/c4mu86b6hgf
Dena Breitmeyer
Wow, you did a fabulous job!!! I love that you were able to use the upstairs furniture down there! It’s PERFECT!!!!
It’s going to be so nice to have the cozy and beautiful family area…we are already spending lots of time in our recently finished loft!!! Hooray for family time!!!!
Sarah
> Dena Breitmeyeryes!! I’m so glad we were able to use that oversized chair. I actually listed it on Craigslist for a few days because I didn’t think we would be able to use it and I wanted to sell it. Thank goodness that didn’t happen!
Sally Brown
The above have said it all, but I love it too. Love reading your blogs!
Sarah
> Sally Brownthanks so much Sally!! So glad to have you here. xo
Laura Thomason
Can you tell me about that little farmhouse light mounted on the wall near the shelf with the clock and the ABD wire rack? Wondering if it’s hard wired or not? I really need something just like it in my living room but hard wired is out.
Help, thanks!
Laura
Sarah
> Laura ThomasonThat light is hard wired (it’s from Amazon: https://rstyle.me/n/ck274nb6hgf) but you totally don’t have to do that. You can mount it without any of the electrical wiring then just use a puck light (or nothing at all) if you just want it to be a piece of decor. I did that exact thing in our reading nook, you can see it here: https://sarahjoyblog.com/new-barn-lights-in-the-reading-nook/
Laura Thomason
Can you tell me about that little farmhouse light mounted on the wall near the shelf with the clock and the ABD wire rack? Wondering if it’s hard wired or not? I really need something just like it in my living room but hard wired is out.
Help, thanks!
Laura
Carol
Absolutely gorgeous! It really turned out perfect.
Maybe you featured this earlier but since I only found your blog a couple months now I don’t recall anything. The little wood framed house on the wall with the open door and window is that used for anything or just decoration? I love it very clever and whoever came up with the idea I applaud them.
Sarah
> CarolThat’s a little playhouse for the kids!! We had a small closet there when we moved in, so I begged my farther in law to make us a cover for it so it would look like a playhouse. He did a great job. The door opens and the kids play in there all the time!!
Deedra
What a cozy, beautiful room! I love everything about it. Sarah, you just have a knack for creating beautiful spaces. And the vintage touches really add warmth to the space. Thanks for sharing with us!
Sarah
> DeedraThank you sweet Deedra, you are too kind!! xo
Vicki
What a breath of fresh air this room is, so light and airy! Makes me wish I had a walk in basement to decorate! Such a simple thing, but I love the touches of black with all the light neutrals. The black barstools tie in so nicely with the black doors, looks great! I know you mentioned replacing them, but I think they look fabulous. Look forward to seeing what kind of desk you end up finding for your office area.
Sarah
> VickiI agree Vicki, the black accents really do pop! I love them. I can’t wait to paint the other door black, that will be soon. Thanks for dropping by!!
Sandee
What a great gathering space Sarah. It’s so cozy. I’m sure your going to enjoy it for a long time.
I see a lot of my favorites here, the fan crate table, little blue fan and some of your candle sticks. It all came together beautifully. 😍😉😄
Sarah
> Sandeeyes defiantly Sandee–I’m sure this space will be making it on the blog a lot more often now!
Donna L.
I love how the basement looks; it’s too beautiful to be called a “basement”! Your positioning of the furniture is masterful.
Quick question. What can you tell me about the curtain rod you used over the French doors? Thank you! 😘
Sarah
> Donna L.aw you are too sweet Donna, thank you so much!! And that curtain rod is from Target actually. It’s currently out of stuck, but here’s the link for reference: https://rstyle.me/n/c4mvc7b6hgf
Ann
Looks beautiful. Will you paint the other door black as wall or will that be too much?
Sarah
> Annyes definitely, I am planning to paint that black too!
Debbie
Absolutely gorgeous!! To beautiful to be called a basement. I love all the textures, placement of the furniture. So cozy, warm and inviting!! You have done an amazing job!
Sarah
> DebbieThanks Debbie, we are so blessed with all that natural light. Really doesn’t feel like a basement at all!
Karen
Sarah I have a question…does your husband let you do whatever you want with design/color? I love your style and my house would look so simular if my husband didn’t have to throw in his two cents all the time! Ha! If I pick something out in white or beige or neutral and he says he doesn’t like it and always leans toward vibrant colors. Ugh, it’s such a struggle. Just wondering how it works in your house =)
Sarah
> Karenyes thankfully he pretty much let’s me make those decisions! Sometimes we have to compromise, but for the most part he leaves it up to me. Thank goodness!
Karen
> SarahYou’re lucky and I’m jealous! 😚
Lynnette
It looks great! Love the new chandelier… the barstools look really good painted!! Love it all! It’s so inviting and cozy!!
Sarah
> Lynnettethanks so much Lynnette!
Pamela Garrett
The tree you have in the corner did u make it or buy it I love it
Sarah
> Pamela GarrettThat’s actually from Pier 1 but unfortunately they don’t carry it anymore! 🙁
Heather
Wow!! Love how everything turned out. Beautifully done!!
Sarah
> Heatherthanks so much Heather!
Pamela Martin
You have accomplished an amazing room. Out of all the bloggers, I try to follow your style the most. I have gotten many ideas that I have used in my own home. Please, keep them coming.
Now, where is my cupcake. LOL
*Smiles*
Pamela
Sarah
> Pamela MartinWow Pamela, you just made my day. I am SO happy to hear you enjoy my blog and use my ideas in your own home!! That just encourages me to keep sharing, so thank you!! xoxo
Brenda Johnson
It all looks amazing! Such a cozy space to hang out in and you arranged the furniture perfectly.
Dianne Gingrich
Looks amazing Sarah.
Such a cozy family space.
Anne
Looks great and not like a basement family room!! Good work!! I’m inspired to lighten up my basement now!!
Gina
I love everything about this! My basement doesn’t get much light- but I totally want to do something like this to lighten and brighten it up! I need to get down there and get started on it before my husband turns it into his man cave.
Roxane
Did you make that HOME sign above the patio doors? Do you have a tutorial?
Basement looks so cozy and fresh. Fantastic!
Sarah
> RoxaneYep, I made that! It was super easy. Here’s the tutorial: https://sarahjoyblog.com/diy-home-sign/
Teri
I love the wreath and the framed black wood above the love seat. Where did you get it?
Cherrie
I love that sign about today leaving something good .. did you make it ?
Sarah
> CherrieNo I didn’t, but here’s the link! https://rstyle.me/n/cpjttzb6hgf
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Marci
I absolutely love your decor style! Could you please tell me how you mounted the sign to the vintage window?!
Debbie
Absolutely beautiful!! An you tell me the color of paint on your walls? You are extremely talented at what you do! Love it!
Thanks so much!
Debbie