The challenge: Transform a dark, unfinished basement into a light-filled space for entertaining.

The designer: Jim Noble, Noble Interiors, Mpls., 612-904-0933, www.nobleinteriorsinc.com

Blank canvas: When Peggy Scheeler-Walsh and her husband, Ron, bought their home in Maple Grove, the big (1,200 square feet) unfinished basement was a selling point. "It was one of the reasons we bought the house. We saw that space in the lower level and knew we could make it a great entertainment area," she said.

Top priorities: When they were ready to tackle the lower level, the couple had three priorities, according to Scheeler-Walsh. "We wanted it to be warm and inviting. We wanted it to be able to accommodate five people, or 20 people -- we entertain a lot. And we wanted it to be a comfortable, nice place to be, for our family." (The couple have two children, ages 9 and 12.)

Multitasking: The lower level needed defined spaces to accommodate several activities, Noble said. The family wanted a media room with a big-screen TV and seating, a bar area for casual entertaining, a workout room and a bathroom with steam shower.

Let there be light: "The most challenging aspect was getting more light in -- to have it feel warm and cozy, not like a basement," Noble said. To achieve that, the family installed larger, arched windows and an indoor/outdoor fireplace that lets in light from the adjacent patio/pool area.

Making an entrance: The original stairway from the main floor to the lower level was straight and narrow, Noble said. "We wanted to open it up, so it would be more gracious. We also added a landing level, so you can go right or left, to create a sense of arrival to a great space."

Warm, yet durable: Because the family does so much entertaining, the materials had to be up to the challenge, said Noble, who chose commercial-grade fabrics for the upholstered furniture. Alderwood millwork, rich brown leather and textured fabrics combine to create the warm, inviting look that Scheeler-Walsh wanted.

The impact: The media room, with its 100-inch projection screen TV, has become a magnet for guests of all ages. "The kids and their friends like to be down there; it's a very fun place to watch a movie," Scheeler-Walsh said. It's equally popular with adults during football season. Since redoing the lower level, her family entertains more and enjoys their home more, she said. "I come from a large family, and when someone has a birthday, we're the gathering spot."

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