Project Spotlight: A Modern Ajax Basement Transformation
An unfinished basement is a blank canvas of possibility. For one family in Ajax, just east of Toronto, their lower level was exactly that—a space brimming with potential but lacking function and style. They envisioned a bright, modern retreat for family movie nights and relaxation. Our mission was to transform it into a functional and beautiful living area, centered around durable grey vinyl flooring and a stunning custom white spray-painted MDF wall unit cabinet that would serve as the room’s focal point. This project, completed in the summer of 2023, is a perfect example of how thoughtful design and quality materials can completely redefine a home’s square footage.
Quick Facts
- Location: Ajax, ON (Greater Toronto Area)
- Category: Full Basement Renovation
- Key Features: Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring, custom-built MDF media centre with a spray-painted finish, LED pot lighting, updated electrical.
- Duration: 2-3 weeks
The Design Vision: A Q&A with Our Lead Designer
To understand the creative process behind this stunning transformation, we sat down with our lead designer to discuss the goals, challenges, and “aha!” moments of the project.
Q: What was the primary goal the Ajax homeowners wanted to achieve with their basement?
A: Their main goal was to escape the classic “basement” feeling. They wanted a space that felt like a true extension of their main floor—bright, open, and inviting. The key was multifunctionality. It needed to be a cozy spot for the family to watch movies, but also clean and organized enough to feel relaxing, not cluttered. They were tired of the concrete floors and exposed ceiling joists and craved a polished, finished look.
Q: The combination of grey vinyl flooring and a white media unit is very striking. How did you arrive at that specific design choice?
A: We started with the foundation: the floor. In an Ontario basement, you have to think about moisture, temperature fluctuations, and comfort. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) is a champion in all three areas. We chose a modern, cool-toned grey to create a neutral, sophisticated base. It’s elegant but also incredibly practical for a high-traffic area.
From there, the white wall unit was a natural choice to create contrast and brightness. A dark unit would have made the space feel heavy. By going with a crisp, clean white, we maximized the reflection of light from the new pot lights. Using MDF allowed us to achieve a perfectly smooth, seamless surface, and the spray-painted finish gives it that durable, almost baked-on look you can’t get with rollers or brushes. It becomes a piece of architectural furniture rather than just a set of shelves.
Q: Were there any specific challenges with this particular basement?
A: Like many homes in the GTA, the main challenge was managing the existing mechanical systems—the furnace, water heater, and ductwork. Our goal is always to conceal these elements thoughtfully without sacrificing ceiling height or creating awkward bulkheads. We worked closely with our framing team to design soffits that looked intentional and clean, integrating them into the overall design so they wouldn’t feel like an afterthought. We also ensured all electrical work was meticulously planned to meet and exceed Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) standards, which is non-negotiable for any basement project.
Materials & Specifications
Choosing the right materials is crucial for longevity and aesthetics, especially in a below-grade environment. Here’s a breakdown of the key components that brought this Ajax basement to life.
Flooring
We installed a high-quality Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring with a stone-plastic composite (SPC) core. The cool grey finish features subtle texture and colour variation, mimicking the look of natural stone or concrete while providing a much warmer and more comfortable underfoot feel. Its 100% waterproof construction makes it an ideal choice for basements, offering peace of mind against potential moisture issues.
Custom Wall Unit
The showpiece of the room is the floor-to-ceiling media and storage unit.
- Material: Medium-Density Fibreboard (MDF) was selected for its superior stability and smooth surface, which is essential for a flawless paint application. Unlike solid wood, MDF is less prone to expanding and contracting with humidity changes common in basements.
- Finish: The unit was finished with a professional-grade, durable white lacquer, applied with a sprayer in a controlled environment. This process creates a hard, seamless, and easy-to-clean surface that resists chipping and yellowing over time.
- Design: The design incorporates a large central opening for a flat-screen television, a combination of open shelving for display, and closed cabinets below for concealing electronics, games, and other clutter.
Walls, Ceiling, and Lighting
- Insulation & Vapour Barrier: The exterior walls were framed and insulated with rigid foam board and batt insulation, followed by a 6-mil poly vapour barrier, meeting Ontario Building Code requirements for thermal performance and moisture control.
- Drywall & Paint: We used moisture-resistant drywall for the walls and ceiling, which was then finished to a Level 4 standard, primed, and painted in a soft, light grey to complement the flooring and make the white cabinetry pop.
- Lighting: A grid of slim-profile LED pot lights was installed throughout the space, providing even, dimmable illumination. This is a far more effective and modern solution than a single, central light fixture, eliminating dark corners and making the room feel larger.
The Process & Timeline: From Concrete to Comfort
A well-planned timeline and clear communication are the keys to a smooth renovation. We completed this entire transformation within our projected 2-3 weeks window.
Week 1: Foundation and Framing
The first week was dedicated to the essential groundwork. After clearing the space, our crew framed the exterior walls and any new interior partitions. This was also the phase for our licensed electrician to run all the new wiring for outlets, switches, and the new pot lights. We inspected the concrete foundation for any signs of moisture intrusion and confirmed the existing waterproofing was sound before closing up the walls.
Week 2: Closing Up and First Finishes
With rough-ins complete and inspected, the focus shifted to drywall. Our team hung, taped, and mudded the walls and ceiling, creating the smooth surfaces that are critical for a high-end finish. Once the drywall compound was sanded and primed, the first coats of paint were applied to the ceiling and walls. Near the end of the week, we installed the grey vinyl plank flooring over a specialized underlayment that adds thermal and acoustic insulation.
Week 3: The Finishing Touches
The final week is when the vision truly comes together. The custom-built MDF wall unit, which had been fabricated and painted off-site, was carefully delivered and installed by our finishing carpenters. This was followed by the installation of baseboards, door casings, and all electrical faceplates and light fixtures. A final coat of paint on the trim and a thorough, professional cleaning left the space move-in ready for the homeowners to enjoy.
The Final Look
Stepping into the finished basement is like entering a completely different home. The space is now bright, airy, and undeniably modern. The cool grey flooring provides a seamless visual flow, making the room feel expansive and unified. The white wall unit stands as a clean, architectural statement piece, drawing the eye and providing a perfect home for the family’s entertainment system while hiding all the wires and clutter.
The strategic placement of pot lights creates a warm and inviting glow, free of the harsh shadows that often plague lower levels. The room is no longer just a basement; it is a fully integrated family room, a stylish media lounge, and a quiet retreat that has significantly increased the home’s usable living space and overall value.
Key Design Takeaways
- High-Contrast Palette: Don’t be afraid of a simple, high-contrast colour scheme. The interplay between the dark grey floor and the brilliant white cabinetry creates a dynamic, clean, and timeless look.
- Invest in a Focal Point: A custom built-in, like this media unit, elevates a room from “finished” to “designed.” It solves practical storage problems while creating a powerful visual anchor.
- Light Your Layers: Good lighting is the most important element in a basement renovation. A grid of dimmable pot lights provides excellent ambient light, which can then be layered with accent lamps for a cozier feel.
Maintenance Tips for Your New Space
- Grey Vinyl Flooring: Clean regularly with a broom, dust mop, or vacuum (using a hard floor setting). For deeper cleaning, use a pH-neutral floor cleaner and a damp mop. Avoid using steam mops, as excessive heat can damage the planks.
- Spray-Painted MDF Unit: Dust with a soft, dry microfibre cloth. For fingerprints or smudges, use a slightly damp cloth with a drop of mild dish soap, then wipe dry immediately. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
- Basement Environment: To keep your new basement fresh and protect your investment, consider running a dehumidifier during Toronto’s humid summer months. This helps maintain a stable environment and prevents any musty odours.
Ready to unlock the potential hidden in your own basement? We can help you design a space that’s both beautiful and built to last. Start the conversation with a free, no-obligation quote today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a basement renovation in Toronto or the GTA?
In most cases, yes. A building permit is typically required if you are making structural changes, adding or moving plumbing, or significantly altering the electrical system. Finishing a basement almost always involves electrical work that requires inspection by the ESA. As part of our service, we manage the entire permit application process to ensure your project is fully compliant with the Ontario Building Code.
What makes vinyl flooring a better choice for an Ontario basement than carpet or hardwood?
The primary advantage of Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) in a basement is its resistance to moisture. Basements are naturally more prone to humidity and potential water issues. Unlike hardwood, which can warp, or carpet, which can trap moisture and lead to mould, LVP is waterproof and dimensionally stable. It’s also durable, easy to clean, and warmer underfoot than tile, making it the ideal all-around choice for our climate.
How much does a custom spray-painted MDF wall unit like the one in this project cost?
The cost of custom millwork varies widely based on size, complexity, and features (like integrated lighting or specific hardware). While it represents a larger upfront investment than a store-bought media console, a custom built-in offers unparalleled value. It is designed to perfectly fit your space, maximize storage, and create a high-end, integrated look that significantly increases your home’s appeal. We can provide a detailed and transparent line-item for custom cabinetry as part of your project estimate.
If this Ajax basement transformation has inspired you, imagine what we could do for your home. Let’s work together to create a space you’ll love for years to come.