Located on one of the most prestigious streets in the city, this elegant estate, built in the ‘90s, clearly had quality bones, but when the client purchased it, they nonetheless knew they had to embark on a whole house remodel. The basement was phase two of this project and involved being multi-purposed as an entertainment and recreation space for their three boys to enjoy.
Instead of one very long, continuous space, the client wanted more variety and definition in functionality; however, the low ceiling and extremely chopped up soffits made it incredibly challenging to achieve a cohesive space. The two structural columns had to remain in their current location as a header was not an option because of the ceiling height.
Our solution was to lower and even out some of the ceiling, which allowed us to add shapes. This made the height appear to be purposeful in oder to divide the function of the different spaces. The transition of each entertainment cluster is apparent and allows the multi-functional area to be used comfortably by up to 50 people. We also reconfigured the existing space, which made it possible for us to add a guest room, guest bathroom, gym, and banquette. The gym has a fabulous brick wall and high-end padded vinyl floor making it rather enjoyable to work out at home.
The color palette was to be warm and inviting but also very easy to maintain. The bar top was made from hand-picked slotted maple slabs, then black filled and coated with epoxy. The metallic blue beams above make the space intimate, yet fun to hang out in with friends. The custom barstools can go back and forth between the two countertops depending on which television residents and guests want to watch. The bar front is made of hair-on-hide with large metallic half rounds that achieves an eye-catching pattern. The backdrop wall of the kitchenette is Ann Sacks black concrete tile, and the matching accent tile was strategically placed with the corner bent back with added LED lights to accentuate the wall in a balanced pattern.
The banquette was made to fit into the new alcove of what once was the entrance to an office. The large bespoke table is made with ostrich leather and hair-on-hide mitered border. The navy velvet couches were elevated with a custom-built stacking base fashioned from mahogany wood. The light fixture was custom made with wrapped pendants, making it a cozy corner in which to play games. The custom metal wine racks showcase their collection and help break up the space while connecting the arcade into the basement.
The heavy textured side columns with a metallic picture frame, sconces, and stacked design ceiling with LED lights create the perfect amount of light for the living room, making it the ultimate place to watch a movie in the leather recliner pit sectional. The linear fireplace with custom hair-on-hide benches and an amazing backsplash give the space extra seating when needed.
The high-level architectural details, contrast in textures, and multiple types of lighting and placement produced a visually appealing experience for all ages. The clients couldn’t be happier with the end result. This project won a Professional Remodeling Organization of NE/IA Gold and Platinum Award in addition to ASID award.
For more information about Stacie Muhle and Artistico, please visit Artistico_Design_
on Instagram or www.artisticodesign.net.
This article originally appeared in the July/August 2024 issue of Omaha Home Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
