The basement was a project we put on the back burner when we moved in because it didn’t feel like a priority. Two years later, it had become a dumping ground for stuff, everywhere. It was stressing both of us out because we hate clutter and it felt like a waste we should be utilizing, particularly given how small our house is overall. Part of the reason we didn’t like the basement is because it looked so dated. The floors were about 15+ years old and were really loud to walk on (it was a weird raised underlayment with sticky tiles on top). It didn’t feel or look cozy at all, so for the most part we didn’t really use it. It also smelled like a basement, you know what I mean? After ripping up the old flooring we realized it was because of stains that soaked through and never got cleaned.
Before
About a month ago we decided we needed to figure out what to do with the space, and at the same time got an opportunity with Home Depot for a flooring project, so the timing could NOT have been more perfect. We really wanted something that looked great but was also durable (scratch resistant) and easy to install. Home Depot’s Winterton Oak Laminate Flooring was the perfect solution. We really wanted creamy neutrals on the floor to compliment the existing paneling on the walls and to make the space feel more modern. It could not be a better fit with our beachy, farmhouse, slightly modern aesthetic at the Cozy Ranch. The best part though, is how well it holds up with dogs. We both agree, if/when we get another fixer upper we would use this throughout instead of hardwoods.
After
The entire installation took about 3-4 days. That’s including ripping up the old flooring, cleaning up old stains on the cement with an enzyme cleaner, putting down underlayment and then finally installing the floors. You can see the installation process in the highlights on the Cozy Ranch Instagram. You don’t need nails or glue, it’s pretty straightforward and Craig was really happy with how easy it was for him to install. The only tools you need are a circular saw or table saw to cut the pieces as you install.
Now we use the space all the time. It’s our podcast recording studio, workout space and movie night room. We also have a guest bedroom and laundry room but they aren’t quite done so I will share once they have the finishing touches. The dogs love it too, and anytime we have bad weather (which totally stresses Nora out) we just go hang out in the basement where it’s quiet and she can relax. We are both really happy with how the space turned out and would 100% recommend the flooring as a pet friendly option. When we do find that next fixer upper this will be our first choice for flooring. What do you guys think? If you have any questions about the flooring or the process let us know!
Huge thanks to Home Depot for sponsoring this project.
![Jess Ann Kirby shares her basement renovation with the Home Depot Winterton Oak Flooring.](https://www.jessannkirby.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Jess-Kirby-Basement-Renovation-Makeover-Home-Depot-Winterton-Oak-Flooring-04289.jpg)
![Jess Ann Kirby installed new flooring from the Home Depot and incorporated her blue velvet couch for an updated look.](https://www.jessannkirby.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Jess-Kirby-Basement-Renovation-Makeover-Home-Depot-Winterton-Oak-Flooring-04341.jpg)
Your basement looks great!!! Love the flooring, love how light and bright it is. Did you get a new dog? Looks like all of your 4-legged “kids” really like the place. Well done!
Totally OT but did you ever or will you ever show your mud Room? I would love to see it. You really do a great job with your renovating and decor. I love your blog. Every morning I wake up and have coffee “with you” before I get ready for work. Great job!
Thank you so much. The extra dog is my Aunt’s he was staying over for a few days. And regarding the mudroom, I am so glad you asked. It has been “almost” finished FOREVER, because it’s not a room we hang out in it just never really was completely done. We had some leftover flooring from the basement and ended up putting it in the mudroom so all we have to do is add some trim and it will be done. And I will definitely share!
The flooring looks fantastic! A huge improvement on what was there originally.
Thank you so much. I agree, we really love it.
The basement looks great! I love those floors and really love that they are durable!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Thank you so much. Yes the durability is amazing, especially with lots of pets, haha.
Wow, it looks fantastic! I love the flooring!
I hope you have a great Tuesday,
Michael
https://www.mileinmyglasses.com
Thank you so much. I hope you have a great day too.
I literally love your home decor and I think it’s so cute that even your dogs match your furniture lol. I love watching your creativity come to life and you both really flipped your home into something amazing. So awesome!
Hi I love this space so much!The couch is beautiful! Where did you get it from?
It’s from Rove Concepts
How has the Rove Concepts couch been holding up?
It’s great. The velvet in particular (at least in the color we got) is super sturdy.