Retro Musicians' Basement

See how Candice creates a retro feel in a basement for a young couple who love music.

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Hide CaptionShow CaptionThis outdated basement needed a re-design from its retro style.

- Dingy Basement
- Funky and Functional

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By Candice Olson

Marla and Aaron are young and hip and just about to start a family. To make room for their new arrival, the couple moved out of their trendy urban loft and into a funky 1950s home in the suburbs. Most of the house is decorated in a minimalist, midcentury modern design, but the basement is another story. It is retro, but in a sad and tired sort of way, complete with wood paneling, dingy fireplace, flattened shag carpet and slouchy, old furniture.

The couple just adores music and wants to use their basement as a rehearsal space for Aaron's folk rock band as well as just a place to relax, entertain guests and work. There is just one problem: With a baby on the way, funds are tight, so their redesign plans will have to adhere to a strict budget. I decided to keep the retro vibe of the place going (sans lava lamp and wave machine), but update it in a way that would rock Marla and Aaron's world but not break the bank.