'Divine' intervention averts basement battle of sexes

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Neil and Lolet needed their basement to be stylish and multifunctional for the whole family.

Interior decorator Candice Olson, host of HGTV's "Divine Design," helped a husband who wanted the basement to be a manly retreat and a wife who desired a room for all.

Last update: November 17, 2009 - 11:47 AM

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THE PROBLEM

Husband wanted basement to be a manly retreat; wife desired a room for all.

The solution

Blend masculine textures with sleek and stylish gender-neutral colors, fabrics and furnishings.

HOW IT HAPPENED

• Replaced pink carpet with walnut-toned hardwood flooring.

• Tore down popcorn stucco ceiling, removed bulky brick fireplace hearth.

• Painted walls light almond and divided room into zones for function, comfort.

• In function zone, installed desk, cupboards, bar refrigerator.

• In comfort zone, added L-shaped sectional, flat-screen TV, leather ottomans, coffee table made of logs and glass and unified colors with area rug.

• Installed gas fireplace with sandstone tiles that resemble wood grain.

• Brightened room with recessed lighting, sconces behind the sofa.

BEST TRICK

Installed dark wood cabinetry along the length of the fireplace wall for storage.

Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service. Interior decorator Candice Olson hosts "Divine Design," which appears Saturdays at 7 p.m.

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