In Arlington Heights, a young couple with big plans for their future decided it was time to rethink their unfinished basement. Starting a family meant their first floor would naturally fill with toys, homework, and daily routines, but they wanted the dedicated space to serve a very different purpose: a place just for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying time with friends and family. Since both homeowners work from home, they also needed the space to double as a home office, blending function with a sense of fun.
From the beginning, they knew what mattered most: hosting, showcasing their growing wine and whiskey collection, and having a gym just steps away so they could maintain their routines even with children at home. To bring that vision to life, the basement was reimagined entirely with custom details at every turn.
The finished basement strikes the right balance between function and atmosphere. Every zone has a clear purpose, but it all comes together through a palette of dark finishes, custom lighting, and bold design choices. Instead of feeling like just extra square footage, the space now has its own identity—a modern, moody spot for work, play, and gathering with friends.
Built by Patrick A. Finn | Design by Lauren Collander Interiors
A wall of glass-front wine coolers stores and displays the homeowners’ collection, seamlessly built into custom cabinetry for a sleek, refined quality to the design
A large sectional anchors the TV zone, perfect for game days or movie nights. With its darker ceiling and layered lighting, the area feels intimate while still being open to the rest of the basement.
The wet bar was thoughtfully designed to make the most of the awkward space beneath the stairs, turning an otherwise overlooked corner into one of the basement’s standout features.
A geometric Virginia Tile backsplash with a randomized pattern adds a unique, eye-catching detail, while floating shelves with integrated up-and-down lighting showcase the couple’s whiskey collection. With its smart use of space and striking finishes, the wet bar was designed to be a true focal point of the basement.
A custom-built booth paired with a handcrafted bar table creates a cozy, lounge-style corner, perfect for lingering with a glass of wine. Oversized Arterios Egg Drop Pendant lights hang above, their weight requiring reinforced ceilings—a detail that shows the level of craftsmanship throughout the space.
Custom wood slats define the bar and home office zones without closing them off, while recessed lighting highlights key features and keeps the entire area feeling open and inviting.
Outfitted with durable rubber flooring, the basement gym gives the homeowners a convenient place to stay active without leaving the house. It’s designed to fit seamlessly into their family routines, making workouts possible even with a busy schedule and kids at home.
Playful wallpaper gives the powder bath a bold look, proving even small spaces can make a statement. Paired with modern fixtures, it brings personality and a touch of drama that carries the moody design of the basement through every detail.
The staircase was finished in black for a bold, modern edge that ties into the moody design of the basement. Subtle illumination along the steps not only adds a layer of safety but also creates a dramatic glow, guiding the way and making the stairs feel like an intentional design feature rather than just a transition space.
Multiple tables provide space for poker nights, board games, or casual drinks with friends.
The finished basement delivers everything the homeowners envisioned and more—a moody, stylish retreat designed for entertaining, unwinding, and daily living.
Each zone, from the wet bar and lounge seating to the home office, gym, and entertainment area, was carefully planned to serve a purpose while still feeling connected through bold finishes and custom details.
What was once an unfinished, underused level is now a standout destination in the home, perfectly balancing function and atmosphere for a young family that wanted it all.
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