My dh and I have a wacky idea...

[nancypants]

We are considering turning our currently unfinished walk-out basement into a studio. I want it to partially be a photography studio (it has plenty of big windows so it's well lit) and partially an art studio for our kids... and for us as we like to try new things all of the time. The kids love creating things and love drawing...

If we were to go forth with this idea what kind of things would you suggest we do to finish it... Wall materials? Flooring materials? Etc... any ideas... And how can we make it really neat and not spend a ton of money. (We do want to put a bathroom down there which of course we will pay for.)

I know this is a really wide open question... If you have any ideas to throw at me I'd love to hear them. :) TIA

[Stirsmommy]

When I get to our basement I am planning on using cork on the floors. It is stays cool in the summer and for me the big bonus will be it won't be frigid in the winter. We are planning to do a media/work out room down there. There is also room for a wood shop but unlike you no great light. Up in my craft room I have wood floors and I painted the walls a pale blue. Eventually I want to put up a wall with either something like cork or padded fabric so I can stick up drawings or sewing fabric and see it from a distance.
Melissa

[nancypants]

When I get to our basement I am planning on using cork on the floors..... Eventually I want to put up a wall with either something like cork or padded fabric so I can stick up drawings or sewing fabric and see it from a distance.
Melissa

Cork on one wall is a great idea! We have considered using it for the floor. I think I am beginning to lean further that way... I wonder how easily it cleans up. http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y63/posiepie/thank_you.gif for your ideas!

[Stirsmommy]

I think you can seal the cork. But probably like with most things the sooner a spill is cleaned the better. I had a friend in Ga that had cork in her kitchen and loved it. Here in MN I just want something that doesn't make more feet ache because it is so cold. Wood is great but just wouldn't work in our basement as it is so unlevel (the joys of a 100 yr old home). If it weren't for the cleaning factor those carpet squares are easy to put down too.
Melissa