Detroit Design // Fall 2024
Birmingham Basement Remodel Embraces a Moody Palette
TEXT BY JEANINE MATLOW PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH TIANO
For her 1940s basement, which had been partially finished but never completely redone, Margaret Skinner had to start from scratch. "It was about expanding the living space and having a place for entertaining," says Skinner, interior designer and principal of Margeaux Interiors in Birmingham.
In the main area, which features a luxurious living space, a lounge, and a bar, a charcoal ceiling adds a dramatic backdrop.
"Had the ceiling been light, it would have made the basement feel small," the designer says. "It has small windows and a low ceiling - there are so many factors (that came into play). We were even limited to where the TV could live."
In spite of the challenges, Skinner found a way to work her magic. "Many people (believe that) because the space is so dark, you have to do the opposite. I wanted to work with what was there and turn it into a positive," she says.
The low ceiling and lack of natural light contribute to the moody vibe, which makes the basement feel like a speakeasy.
"Using a dark color palette is dramatic," Skinner says.
Her approach worked especially well since that part of her home gets more use at night, when she watches TV or has cocktails with guests. The drama unfolds at the glamorous bar, which is equipped with a sink and a fridge. Custom display cabinets were built on-site, and the wallpaper wows with wood and gold accents.
A Parsons console with a stone top and a waterfall edge features a backlit metal screen below, where counter-height stools include a pair that tucks under the table.
Boucle ottomans and a quilted velvet banquette offer additional seating in the lounge area, where the remodeled fireplace was revived with porcelain tile. Distinct touches include a sun light fixture and heirloom art by the designer's mom. A comfy sectional and woven chenille chair outfit the living space.
The guest bathroomwas completelygutted andreconfigured, while a laundry area that had never been touched became a destination thanks to graphic wallpaper and white cabinets that provide the perfect contrast. The fact that it went from a just-passing-through-to-get-to-the-laundry-area-and-change-the-air-filter space to a beautiful basement makes Skinner happy. "It was a pass-through area. It wasn't a livable space," she says. "To know what it can be shows how you can take an awful space and turn it into a gem. It's probably our favorite (part of) the house." o
MORE INFORMATION: margeauxinteriors.com
