Unlocking Potential: A Riverside Basement Remodel for Family, Friends, and Fun

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Last updated on September 22, 2025

An unfinished basement is full of possibilities, but for many homeowners, it's also a daunting blank slate. Our recent clients in Riverside, Missouri, had a vision for their unused space: a multi-functional area that would serve as a go-to spot for the whole family and a welcoming destination for entertaining. 

This project was a dream to work on because it was more than just a renovation; it was about creating a new heart for their home—a place for movie nights, hosting friends, and making memories for years to come. 

finished basement remodeling project with paneled stained accent feature media wall and cozy furniture to hang out on

The Vision: A Basement for Everyone 

Our clients, a family with young kids, wanted to maximize every square foot of their lower level. Their wish list was comprehensive: 

  • A Cozy Hangout Spot: A comfortable space with a cool, modern feel, perfect for watching the big game (you know which one) and hosting friends and family. 
  • A Modern Kitchen & Dining Area: A functional space for preparing snacks and drinks without having to run upstairs, making entertaining seamless. 
  • A Dedicated Home Office: A quiet, professional corner for remote work or managing family schedules. 
  • The Ultimate Playroom: A designated zone where the kids could play and be creative, and most importantly, a space that could be easily contained behind a closed door when guests arrived. 

With this clear vision, Schloegel designers Kelly Summers and Lindsay Brungardt were ready to get to work. 

The Before: A Space with Potential 

Stepping into the basement, we saw a totally blank canvas. It was a completely raw, unfinished space with exposed framing and electrical. But we saw more than just concrete and ductwork. We saw a future family room, a future office, and a future playroom. The lack of existing walls or features was actually a great advantage—it allowed us to design the layout from scratch to perfectly match the family's needs without having to demolish anything first. 

basement before the remodel, bare with concrete and exposed pipes duct work and wires
unfinished bare basement other view

Plans

We were lucky to work with a blank slate since the space was completely unfinished. Our architecture team came up with a few floor plan options. We opted for the one below on the right but instead, our clients decided to use the back area marked "bedroom" as a dedicated play area for the kids. This way the toys and clutter could be concealed behind a door when hosting, without having to pick up all the toys. 

before remodeling as built floorplans from the riverside basement project

"Before" or as built floor plans of the unfinished basement

new floor plans showing one of the options for this basement remodel in riverside

"After" floor plans, a variation of the final new floor plans

 Design Details and Renderings

The key to a cozy basement is selecting finishes that add warmth and personality. For this particular project, we worked with our clients to choose an earth toned and cozy color palette. Think warm golds, stained wood, the perfect shade of green, and rich browns. This combination of tones immediately makes the space feel calm and cozy but still full of character.

Design details like floor plans, 3D renderings, and construction sets are a crucial part of the remodeling process. They help ensure everyone—from the client and our designer to the production team on the job site—is on the same page and working toward the same vision.

We typically create several rendering options to help clients visualize the potential of their space. This might involve showing one layout that reclaims some dead space for a small home office and another that turns it into a home gym. For a bathroom remodel, we could present one option with a smaller footprint to maximize space elsewhere and another that expands the bathroom to include a large walk-in shower and a separate tub.

These detailed drawings aren't just for floor plans. With 3D renderings, we can change finishes, colors, and textures to show you what the space will truly look like. This allows you to explore different looks and make confident decisions before any construction begins.

basement rendering drawing

View from family room into kitchen and dining area.

basement bar view rendering

View from kitchen into dining and family room.

Above are two different views of an option we came up with for our clients. We ended up changing the peninsula to be an island to create more of an open concept easy flowing space. Once the design details were finalized, we could start swinging hammers. 

Phase 1: Framing the Vision 

The first step was bringing the architectural drawings to life. The remodel was directed by Jeff Penrose and the day to day was managed by Doug Schauerman. The team began with framing, carefully constructing the walls that would define each new area—the main living space, the kitchen, the office, the playroom, and the bathroom. 

basement kitchen framing
dining alcove rounded framing

We used a custom kit to frame the rounded dining alcove to get the perfect shape. 

basement framing

Once the framing was complete, our electricians and plumbers were able to work seamlessly on the rough-ins. New wiring was run for lighting, outlets, and the home theater setup. Plumbing was installed for the kitchen sink and the new bathroom (a critical addition for any basement remodel!)

plumbing and water hook up for new basement kitchen and bathroom in plumbing and electrical rough in phase of construction for the basement remodel in Riverside
plumbing and water hook up for new basement kitchen and bathroom in plumbing and electrical rough in phase of construction for the basement remodel in Riverside
electrical rough in wires

With all the new plumbing and electrical elements in place, we turned our attention to the foundation. Our team prepared the floors by patching and leveling the subfloor, a crucial step to ensure the upcoming tile installation would be nothing short of perfect. It's the attention to detail that makes all the difference!

wet concrete drying after being poured to help even out floors after moving things for the plumbing rough in phase of the project

After the framing was complete, we went in with insulation. 

insulation in basement kitchen
basement insulation phase

Phase 2: Building Out the Details 

With the bones of the space in place, it was time to add the finishing layers. We hung drywall over the insulation to create the smooth, finished walls and ceilings. After a few rounds of mud and sanding, this is where the basement began to feel like a livable space. 

To create the ultimate cozy dining nook, we designed a custom round alcove to seamlessly hug a built-in banquette booth. It's a perfect example of how a custom vision can transform an ordinary corner or wasted space into a unique and inviting destination.

drywall hung over insulation in the basement remodel in riverside
drywall and mud and tape

As for the bathroom, we created a spacious shower with large format wall tile and a fun patterned floor tile for the rest of the space. 

A progress shot of a basement bathroom remodel showing the tile installation phase. The walls of the custom walk-in shower are expertly tiled with large, light-colored square tiles, while the patterned floor tile with a vibrant design is being laid and leveled, highlighting the intricate work involved in creating a unique and durable finish.

Next came the flooring. We installed a Beige European Oak hardwood throughout the main living areas for a seamless, modern look, with a soft, neutral carpet added in the main living space, office and playroom for warmth and comfort. 

hardwoods going in basement
hardwoods installed
carpet installed

Then to finish things off we installed the trim and baseboards, adding the polished details that tie a room together. The custom green cabinetry for the kitchen and living room storage area was then installed, creating a perfect blend of style and function. 

kitchen cabinets installed in basement in a netural green shade to add some personality to the upper and lower cabinets as well as the island
cabinets being installed

A neutral stained wood vanity was installed in the bathroom and soon after the white quartz countertops went in. 

bathroom counter and vanity
island countertop
counters in

The final fixtures were then added, including the golden brass pulls and knobs that pop against the cabinetry, the unique light fixtures over the island and dining nook, and the sink faucet. 

The Final Touches: From House to Home

This Riverside basement is officially ready for its first family game night!  The results from this remodel are not only beautiful but also incredibly functional—a space where this family can relax, entertain, and grow for years to come. 

An interior wide shot of a newly remodeled, modern basement living room in Kansas City, designed for warmth and comfort. The focal point is a large entertainment wall featuring a mounted television above a long, custom-built console with dark forest green cabinetry. This is set against a striking floor-to-ceiling slatted wood accent wall, which cleverly integrates a hidden door for media storage. In the foreground, a spacious L-shaped light gray sectional sofa with decorative pillows anchors the room on a plush, light beige textured area rug. To the right of the sectional, a rounded brown swivel armchair adds a cozy seating option. Overhead, the ceiling features recessed lighting and a decorative exposed wood beam, adding to the room's character. The walls are painted a warm, light neutral tone, complementing the overall inviting and sophisticated aesthetic, perfect for family time or entertaining.

In a space designed for relaxation and entertainment, clutter can be a major distraction. That's why we integrated several smart storage options for our clients. A hidden storage door into the paneled accent wall is a discreet way to seamlessly blend the design elements while, keeping media components, gaming consoles, and other electronics neatly tucked away when not in use. It's the perfect example of how a custom solution can elevate both the style and the functionality of a room.

An interior view of a newly remodeled, upscale basement family room in Kansas City. The space features a cozy, modern design with a warm and inviting color palette. In the foreground is a light gray sectional sofa on a textured beige area rug. The back wall showcases a custom-built media console with dark green cabinetry and a mounted television, flanked by a striking floor-to-ceiling slatted wood accent wall. The wood paneling conceals a clever, hidden door for media storage. The room is well-lit with recessed ceiling lights and has light wood flooring transitioning from the carpeted area. The far right of the image reveals a partial view of a dining nook with a custom built-in banquette under a softly lit archway, with leather bar stools and a large kitchen island countertop in the foreground. The overall design combines rustic charm with modern functionality to create a perfect space for entertaining and family gatherings.
In a space designed for relaxation and entertainment, clutter can be a major distraction. That's why we integrated a hidden storage door into the paneled accent wall. This discreet entryway seamlessly blends into the design, keeping media components, gaming consoles, and other electronics neatly tucked away when not in use. It's the perfect example of how a custom solution can elevate both the style and the functionality of a room.

Designed for both style and daily life, this kitchen and dining alcove are ready for family use. The space is cozy, inviting, and totally functional, making it the perfect hub for everything from casual hangouts to larger gatherings.

We designed this space to be a fully functional second kitchen, perfect for hosting and everyday convenience. It's equipped with all the essentials you'd find in a main kitchen, including a full-sized refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave. The design seamlessly blends style and purpose, featuring a cool and cozy color palette of rich green cabinetry and warm gold hardware. A beautiful central island with a waterfall countertop provides a generous seating area, making it a perfect spot for gathering. The space is topped off with stunning gold and glass pendant lights that add a touch of modern elegance. This kitchen ensures that every family game night, holiday party, or Chiefs watch party has everything it needs to be a success.
A tight, detailed interior shot of a fully equipped basement kitchen in Kansas City, showcasing a sophisticated and functional design. The image focuses on the countertops and cabinetry, which are a key part of the remodel. The custom-built upper and lower cabinets are painted a rich, deep forest green, creating a bold, modern color statement. This is contrasted with elegant gold hardware on the cabinet doors and drawers, tying into the warm palette of the overall space. The countertops are a clean, white quartz, providing a bright and durable work surface. A subway tile backsplash in a neutral, slightly glossy finish runs the length of the counter, adding texture and a classic touch. The sink features a stylish gold-toned faucet. The kitchen is fully functional with a stainless steel dishwasher visible below the counter. A television is mounted above the sink and soundbar, perfect for watching the big game while entertaining. On the counter, various bottles and glasses are arranged, suggesting the space is ready for a party. The image also captures a small beverage fridge on the far left, emphasizing the kitchen's full hosting capabilities.
An interior detail shot of a newly remodeled basement in Kansas City, showcasing a modern and cozy dining nook. The space features a custom built-in banquette with quilted black upholstery on the back and tan leather seating, creating a stylish and inviting breakfast-nook-like area. The banquette is tucked beneath a beautifully crafted archway, which adds architectural interest and a sense of separation from the main living area. A small round table sits in the center of the banquette, with a single green velvet chair on the opposite side, offering additional seating. A gold-toned pendant light with a white drum shade hangs above the table, providing warm and focused lighting. In the foreground, a large kitchen island with a white countertop is visible, along with two modern bar stools featuring black metal frames and tan leather seats, tying the aesthetic of the two spaces together. The flooring is a light wood plank, contributing to the overall bright and welcoming feel. This area provides a perfect, intimate spot for meals, coffee, or a quiet conversation.
An interior detail shot of a custom-designed, cozy dining alcove within a newly remodeled basement in Kansas City. This intimate space is defined by a beautifully crafted archway that frames a unique, curved built-in banquette. The bench seat is upholstered in two contrasting materials: a tufted, dark green or black velvet on the backrest and a smooth, caramel-colored leather on the seat cushion, creating a sophisticated and inviting look. A small round table with a simple gray top is positioned in the center, accompanied by a single chair with a green velvet seat and a natural wood frame, adding another layer of texture and color. A modern pendant light with a white drum shade and brass accents hangs from the ceiling, providing warm, focused light over the table. The light wood flooring and warm neutral wall colors complete the cozy, custom feel of this charming dining area.

The bathroom came together beautifully. It's the perfect blend of neutral tones with just the right amount of character and interest, creating a space that feels both calm and unique.

An interior shot of a newly remodeled, stylish basement bathroom, showcasing a blend of modern and eclectic design elements. The most striking feature is the patterned tile flooring with an intricate blue, brown, and white floral or starburst design, adding a vibrant and playful pop of color to the space. The bathroom features a spacious walk-in shower with a clear glass sliding door and elegant gold-toned hardware, including the showerhead and handle. The shower walls are tiled with large, light-colored square tiles, creating a clean and seamless look. On the right, a custom-built wood vanity with a white countertop and dark pulls provides a warm contrast to the other finishes. A large arched mirror with a thin black frame hangs above the vanity, reflecting light and making the space feel more open. Two modern wall sconces with gold accents flank the mirror, providing stylish and functional lighting. The overall design is a perfect example of how a small basement bathroom can be transformed into a bright, luxurious, and unique space.
An interior wide-angle shot of a newly remodeled basement bathroom in Kansas City, showcasing a bright and luxurious design. The room features a spacious walk-in shower with a clear glass sliding door and striking gold hardware, including the showerhead, faucet, and door handle. The shower walls are tiled with large, light-colored square tiles, creating a clean and modern feel. The vanity area on the right features a warm, stained wood cabinet with a clean white countertop and a vessel sink. An arched mirror with a thin black frame hangs above the sink, flanked by modern wall sconces with gold accents, which provide warm and elegant lighting. The walls are painted a soft, neutral cream color, complementing the gold tones and light wood. The bathroom is decorated with framed artwork on both the vanity wall and the wall next to the shower, which ties into the gold accents. The overall design successfully elevates a basement bathroom, proving that even a small space can be both highly functional and beautifully designed.

This serene office is a peaceful spot for getting work done. The thoughtful layout provides ample space for a large desk and storage, while the window floods the room with natural light. Located just across from the new bathroom, and adjacent the kitchen, this space is ready for everything from remote work to quiet time planning.

An interior shot of a newly remodeled, sophisticated home office in a basement, designed with a focus on natural light and a calming aesthetic. The walls are painted a beautiful, deep sage green, creating a peaceful and focused atmosphere. A modern, light wood desk with clean lines sits in the center of the room, positioned to take advantage of the natural light from a large window. The room is decorated with a framed piece of art on the left wall, adding a touch of personality. The flooring is a light wood plank, which complements the warm wood tones of the desk and a low credenza on the left side of the room. A patterned area rug in neutral tones grounds the space, adding texture and warmth. A gold-toned modern chandelier with white glass shades hangs from the ceiling, providing both style and ample lighting for the workspace. This office proves that a basement can be a bright, functional, and inviting retreat.

Let's be real, a home where the kids' imagination can run wild! This dedicated play space is ready for all the fun but designed to keep the toys organized with amazing built-in closet storage. Plus, the natural light from the windows makes it a bright and cheerful spot for playtime (unlike what you'd typically find in a basement play space). We love a space that can grow with the family—this versatile room has plenty of space to become a comfortable guest bedroom as the kids grow.

playroom storage
playroom after remodel

Thinking about what your own basement could become? We're here to help you turn that blank slate into a space you'll love to live in. Check out our basement gallery for some inspiration and contact us to learn how we can make your vision come to life!

Follow @remodelagain on Instagram for exciting project updates!

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