Given a clean slate of space, designer Seashal Belldina of Pittsburgh-based Interiors by Seashal transformed the lower level of this French Provincial new-construction home into a sophisticated, high-style retreat designed for both family living and entertaining. A highlight of the program is the bold basement bar design.
To accommodate this busy family’s lifestyle, Belldina took a zoning approach when planning the 1,500 square feet of raw space, with new finishes and furnishings throughout. The basement now includes a movie area, bar, lounge with pool and poker tables, guest bedroom, home office and children’s play area.
Millwork plays a central role in the design, including custom built-in bookcases with gold metal mesh door panels that provide both storage and architectural interest. The bar features a soapstone counter, a smoked mirror backsplash and bistro-style shelving to display glassware and spirits, creating a natural gathering spot for adults during parties or casual evenings at home. A cozy theater and game room provides the perfect place for family movie nights and casual entertaining. A dedicated play area, complete with climbing handholds and a wall coated with chalkboard paint, ensures the children have a place designed just for them.
Rich paint tones, layered wallpaper and custom ceiling treatments were used to give each area its own personality while maintaining a cohesive feel across the interior.
Completing the space are custom designed furnishings, including a sectional sofa and chairs upholstered in soft green and jewel tone velvets that Belldina hand-sketched. The homeowners have four children ages 1 to 11 who love to pile cushions on the floor for movie nights. Belldina designed large floor pillows in the same fabric as the sectional to turn the area into a big pillow-filled, screen-watching paradise.
By combining dramatic finishes, unique furnishings and purposeful planning, the once unfinished basement has become a dynamic extension of the home.
Sources for Bold Basement Bar Design
Design: Seashal Belldina, Interiors by Seashal Photography: Erin Ash Kelly @erinashkelly Contractor: Ackerman Construction BAR Appliances: Don’s Appliances Cabinet Hardware: Armac Martin Cabinetry: DC Cabinetry (bar island & green built-in), Manor House (back bar) Bar Shelving: Fittings Metal Company Billiards Table: West Penn Billiards Countertop: MSI Flooring: Clay Place Lighting: Visual Comfort Mirrors: Rex Glass Paint: Meticulous Painting (walls), Broberg Painting & Decorating (decorative) Plumbing: Splash of Cranberry
