An Arlington couple hired design/build firm TriVistaUSA to convert their cluttered, dark and decrepit basement into a light, comfortable space for hanging out and watching TV. They also needed storage and space to display items they’d collected while traveling.
| Then | Now |
| Paneled in dark-stained wood, the basement had a dated look. A brick fireplace in one corner couldn't be used because gas lines were situated behind it. | The paneling was replaced with drywall. The fireplace is now electric, so proximity to gas lines is not an issue. |
| The floors were made of circa-1970s linoleum brick that was dingy and dark. | The floors are a seamless vinyl that is practical for basement use but looks like light-stained, wide-plank wood. |
| Haphazard, rickety shelves stored a mishmash of stuff. | Custom built-in shelving showcases the couple's possessions, including Civil War-era revolvers in a glass case. |
| Narrow, dimly lit stairs were closed off by a door. | The staircase has been opened up and the door removed to bring in light. |
Renovation Design & Construction: Michael Sauri, president, TriVistaUSA, Arlington, Virginia.
