A DC family turned to Anthony Wilder Design/Build to transform their cramped basement into an inviting family space. Their wish list included a game room, home theater, gym, guest quarters—and a playful, modern aesthetic.

The Wilder team raised the ceiling, streamlining or eliminating obtrusive ductwork. Walls were removed to improve circulation; a load-bearing wall between the game room and theater was reduced in size and reimagined as a stylish media cabinet. “A red barn door separates the guest bedroom/gym,” explains principal Anthony Wilder. “When it’s open, the flow throughout the basement is continuous.” An elegant, 364-bottle wine room replaced two storage areas under the stairs.

A herringbone pattern on various surfaces unifies the spaces, which are enlivened by a black-and-white palette with bold pops of color.

EXPERT INSIGHTS
Notes from Anthony Wilder

• When remodeling a basement, the most important structural factor to consider is whether water is getting in.
• Cut obtrusive ductwork in half and flatten it so it’s narrow and wide rather than square and deep; paint it the color of the ceiling.
• A cost-effective move is to remove walls where possible but use the ones that must stay as built-ins or focal points.
• Add mirrors on walls to reflect light.

Renovation and Interior Design & Contracting: Anthony Wilder, Anthony Wilder Design/Build, Cabin John, Maryland.