Fun Ways to Set Up a Basement

Family Game Room

• Turn your basement into a fun spot for the entire family. Basements often are dim, so install attractive overhead lighting. Take a family vote on games for the room. Some options are billiards, foosball, air hockey or even ping-pong if your basement is large. Mount a dartboard on the wall, with magnetic darts if your children are young. Provide a comfortable couch, beanbag chairs and a table to hold snacks. Store games and supplies in cabinets. Keep chilled drinks near at hand in a small refrigerator.

Home Theater

• If you love movies but hate the exorbitant prices for tickets and snacks at the theater, set up your own movie room in the basement. Carpet the floors to help absorb outside sound. Install overhead lighting with a remote control for easy dimming of the lights. Mount the largest television screen that fits the space and your budget on the wall, and position several speakers around the room. Settle a big couch and a recliner or armchair in front of the screen. Don't forget a small refrigerator and microwave for cold drinks and popcorn.

Exercise Room

• There's no reason to pay for a gym membership or venture outside in freezing weather if you have your own basement gym. Start with bright overhead lighting and soft, padded mats on the floor. Select an elliptical machine, stationary bike or treadmill for cardio workouts. All-in-one home gyms adjust to exercise your arms, legs and core muscles. Set a lifting bench and a selection of free weights in a corner of the room. A wall-mounted TV with a selection of exercise DVDs lets you vary your workout routine each day.

Craft Room

• Arts and crafts can be messy and often require considerable space and storage. Vinyl or laminate flooring is easy to wipe clean after inevitable spills. Mount cabinets, shelves or storage bins to hold supplies. Excellent lighting is a must, so install adjustable overhead lighting, as well as one or two craft lights that swivel to focus where you need light. Choose a large craft table with an easy-clean surface, and surround it with several stools for family craft night. Relax and dream up new creative ideas in a comfortable couch or armchair.