Basement Transformation- from Concrete to Cozy

What started out as a lifeless, fluorescent pit is now the coolest room in the house!

I recently finished a basement mural titled “Riches of the Earth” with my friend Abby. A medium that does not require me to slump my neck? Yes, please.

Before

After

Frames on frames

This year my brother Connor proposed we fix up the basement of our relatives’ rental property to be properly lived in.

Last year he surprised us with his natural talent at interior design and woodwork. I love that he cares about aesthetics; lord knows I’ve seen enough sad bachelor floor mattresses for one lifetime.

So, when he said he wanted help painting the walls I assumed he would be the perfect candidate to pitch my mural idea at.

Trust your instincts.

He described a mid-century modern look but told me to paint whatever I wanted. After the carpet installers worked their magic the potential was clear.

Using house paint rather than natural materials typical of mid-century modern meant we had to be intentional when designing. I wanted to bring the outside world in. The basement barely gets any natural light but I knew Connor had warm tone lamps and furniture. Taking that into account we chose house paint pints in spicy browns, golds, and oranges. I also had extra purple from a separate project, the perfect contrast.

After a few hours I had sketched out a design.

It was important to use loose swooping motions and cover area quickly to avoid getting caught up in one spot. Still, I drew an elaborate scene with everything from the night sky to an underground ecosystem. Thankfully I had a skilled painting assistant: Abby Huxford. Without her I would have simplified the design. With her I brought the jungle home using just two 1.5in angled flat brushes.

Left: Abby Huxford Right: Yours truly

We color blocked the first layer to save paint.

Every spot was gone over twice for rich opaque coverage.

Want to transform your space on a budget?

-Buy your furniture and decor used. Look for natural materials like wood and bamboo. Re-finish woodwork in a way that shows off the natural grain.

-Introduce ambient lighting. Think subdued warm colors, not blinding car headlights.

-Ignore those who say you should play it safe with house paint. Does anyone truly enjoy all beige? It is your home, not an authoritarian government training camp. No need to overthink it, pick colors you find beautiful. Gather inspiration on Pinterest and copy schemes you like. The thing about paint is: you can change it!

-Keep in mind that paint will look brighter on the wall than on the store swatch. At first we picked a muted purple grey (for the side walls). No one liked it. So we switched it up with Moroccan spice, a color we all find inviting.

-If you are painting a mural with no experience stick to a limited palette and sketch simple, geometric shapes you can outline with tape. Make it a fun group activity, but give everyone clear tasks so paint is not wasted and the vision comes to life.

LED star projector adds even more intrigue.

Your environment affects your mood.

This is a simple overview of my recent project, but color theory is not to be underestimated. Whether or not you consider yourself an artist I recommend watching a video or two on the topic.

Amidst the gloomy Washington winter darkness this room is an absolute delight. And one day, when the mural is covered up, we will have these photos to remember it by.

As always, Thanks for reading!