When you think about basements, you may think of a drab and dark room that doesn’t get much or any natural light. While some basements might fit into that category, nice and cozy finished basements have gained popularity. Part of avoiding a finished basement from looking drab is picking the right paint color to add some brightness. Here are a few of the best colors for a brighter basement:

1. Light Blue

Due to the nature of basements, there tend to be a limited amount of windows, and some may not even have any. There are different types of basement windows you can add to your basement to bring in some natural light which can instantly take your basement from drab to airy and light.

However, if you still have limited natural light, choose a light color like sky blue. This color can reflect both natural and artificial light, giving your basement some lightness. Pair this light blue with lighter-colored basement flooring options and decor to stay in the same color theme or accent with darker colors for some contrast.

2. Soft Gray

While gray sometimes can feel drab, it can brighten and warm your basement if you pick the right shade. Going for a gray with subtle blue undertones keeps your basement from feeling too dark. It also goes well with a ton of other colors, so you still have plenty of options to match flooring, plush areas rugs, etc. Adding plush rugs is a great way to warm up a cold basement.

3. Muted Green

Utilizing green is always a great way to bring the outdoors inside. This is especially useful in basements with limited natural light. Try a soft green with neutral undertones that mimic seafoam. Add plenty of blankets, soft rugs, and throw pillows for some more texture and warmth.

Making sure you have enough lighting is an essential basement finishing tip. The right amount of lighting will keep things from feeling too dark. This lighting will work with the light green shade, giving your basement a bright feel.

4. White

Anytime a space feels too dark or drab, white is a go-to shade. This versatile backdrop can work with any color palette as well as decor and design style. However, make sure to choose a shade that isn’t too stark. Cream or off-white with neutral or warm undertones can create a cozier and warmer feeling while still giving plenty of brightness and lightness.

5. Navy Blue

Such a dark shade may feel counterintuitive, but darker shades can still work in basements. It’s especially a great shade if you plan to use your basement as a media room, which is a popular basement remodeling trend. Not everyone prefers light colors and would rather have a bold and dramatic basement.

The key to using a dark shade in a basement is adding brightness in other ways, like light decor accents. Navy and white are a classic combination and using white or light accents keeps things from feeling too dark. Adding plenty of lighting options is also important so the room can be bright when necessary, but you can lean into the moody vibe for movie nights.

6. Yellow

Light shades of yellow can instantly warm and brighten any dark basement, which is why they are some of the best colors for a brighter basement. Yellow shades tend to offer some playfulness and cheerfulness. Try choosing a muted yellow with a cool or neutral undertone to keep things feeling light and bright.

7. Lavender

Purples are often associated with creativity so a light purple is perfect for inviting creativity to your basement. Lavender is a fun alternative to white and it adds brightness to any space. This color would be perfect for quite a few finished basement ideas, including a child’s playroom or game room.

Finish or Remodel Your Basement With Zephyr Thomas

These are just a few of the best colors for a brighter basement. There are many good reasons to finish your basement. If you’re thinking of finishing your basement or remodeling your finished basement, Zephyr Thomas is here to help! Contact Zephyr Thomas at 717-399-4708 to schedule a free estimate!

Check out the time-lapse video below to see the Zephyr Thomas team completing a basement remodel for this homeowner!