How to Remodel the Lower Level of a Split-Level Home

Measure the living space and transfer dimensions to graph paper. Decide if a small addition for the front porch area or backyard is practical. Add an enclosed porch or a 15-by-18-foot family bonus room, for example. Include an addition with a roof line that harmonizes with the two roof areas of a split level. Keep in mind that an addition with an appealing roof line can update the house significantly.

Define a budget and fine-tune your remodeling plan. Figure out how to open the wall between the kitchen and living room, as one option. Look at alternatives such as building a pass-through from the kitchen to the living room. Figure out how to enlarge a bathroom using some hallway space. Decide if you will replace carpet with hardwood or install new cabinets and appliances in the kitchen.

Obtain a building permit before you hire professionals. Retain an electrician and a plumber to offer advice on running new wiring and plumbing. Show them your sketches to see if they have specific ideas on making the remodel better. Ask a plumber, for example, if bathrooms on the upper level will affect any changes in a bath on the lower level and vice versa.

Add kitchen upgrades that look appropriate from the living space. Make sure the cabinet finish will harmonize with new flooring, too, because the kitchen may be visible from the front foyer. Sketch the whole space of adjoining rooms, and use colored pencils to define colors. Use light neutral colors on the walls, along with crown molding for all rooms involved. Tie the kitchen and living spaces together by using flooring and tile work that match all furnishings and appliances.

Plan to add a high-end front door and new light fixtures. Install an all-wood carved front door, for example. Add exterior light fixtures that are impressive from curbside. Install a new foyer light inside the house, along with new light fixtures in the living room and kitchen. Use light fixtures that are similar in style, because a split-foyer house often has limited floor space on the lower level. Create the lower-level space to flow together visually in terms of decor and style used for accessories, building materials and furniture.