Basement Entertainment Suite
An unfinished basement converted into a multi-use entertainment suite with home theater, wet bar, and full bathroom.
$35,000
Budget
5 weeks
Timeline
70%
Est. ROI
850 sq ft
Finished Area
The Challenge
The owners of this 2001 Colonial in Allentown, PA had 850 square feet of completely unfinished basement — bare concrete walls, exposed joists, and a single bare bulb. With two teenage kids and frequent family gatherings, they needed more living space but didn't want to build an addition.
Their vision was a multi-purpose entertainment space: a home theater area for movie nights, a wet bar for hosting, and a full bathroom so guests wouldn't need to go upstairs. The budget was firm at $35,000.
The main concerns were moisture (the basement had occasional dampness in heavy rains), the low ceiling height (7'6" before finishing), and meeting PA building codes for habitable basement space including egress requirements.
Our Solution
We designed a comprehensive finishing plan that addressed moisture, code compliance, and the family's entertainment goals — all within their $35,000 budget.
Complete waterproofing system with interior French drain and sump pump upgrade
Framing, insulation (R-15 rigid foam), and drywall throughout 850 sq ft
Dedicated home theater area with soundproofing (double drywall + Green Glue)
Custom wet bar with granite countertop, under-counter fridge, and sink
Full bathroom with walk-in shower, vanity, and toilet (new plumbing rough-in)
Luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout (waterproof, scratch-resistant)
Recessed LED lighting with smart dimmer zones
Electrical panel sub-panel with 8 dedicated circuits
HVAC extension with 3 new supply vents and 2 returns
Egress window installation (code requirement for habitable space)
Cost Breakdown
Final project cost: $34,200 (under the $35,000 budget).
Project Timeline
Week 1
Waterproofing, egress window cut, plumbing rough-in, HVAC ductwork
Week 2
Framing, electrical rough-in, sub-panel installation, insulation
Week 3
Drywall, soundproofing in theater area, painting
Week 4
Flooring installation, wet bar build, bathroom tile and fixtures
Week 5
Trim, lighting, bar countertop, final electrical, inspection, cleanup
“We practically doubled our living space. The basement is now the favorite room in the house. Movie nights, football Sundays, hosting friends — it all happens down here now.”
— Homeowner, Allentown, PA
Key Takeaways for Homeowners
Waterproofing First, Always
We invested $4,200 (12% of budget) in a proper waterproofing system before any finishing work. In Allentown's clay soil, this is non-negotiable — it protects the entire $35,000 investment.
Soundproofing Pays Off for Theaters
Double drywall with Green Glue compound on the theater walls cost an extra $800 but blocks ~90% of sound transmission. The family can watch movies at full volume without disturbing upstairs bedrooms.
Egress Windows Are Required
PA building code requires an egress window in any finished basement used as living space. We installed a 47" x 20" window well — it also brought in natural light that transformed the feel of the space.
LVP Flooring Is the Smart Choice
Luxury vinyl plank flooring is waterproof, comfortable underfoot, and looks like real hardwood. At $4/sq ft installed, it's a fraction of hardwood cost and ideal for below-grade spaces.
Project Details
Project Type
Basement Finishing
Location
Allentown, PA
Budget
$35,000
Actual Cost
$34,200
Timeline
5 weeks
Finished Area
850 sq ft
Home Type
2001 Colonial
Started
August 2025
Completed
September 2025
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