Divine Intervention: Transforming a water-damaged basement

A massive flood brought 4 inches of rain into this basement, leaving it in need of restoration.

Designer Candice Olson created a multipurpose basement fit for entertaining, relaxation and guest accommodation.

• Olson sectioned off a self-contained bedroom suite with a room-dividing panel. On the other side of the remote-controlled room divider is a comfy sectional sofa facing a TV and media center.

• Beside that is a wine bar area — a warm and inviting corner equipped with a couple of white swiveling barrel chairs, a leather-topped bench for extra seating and a modern wall-mounted ethanol fireplace, featuring fire rocks instead of traditional logs.

• The homeowner has an extensive wine collection. A customized feature wall, with sleek acrylic wine racks to display his wines, elevated the wine to the level of art.

• The basement had contained a small kitchen area, which the homeowner wanted to incorporate into the new space. Instead of a traditional refrigerator, Olson selected two fridge drawers that pull out from underneath the counter. A stainless-steel gas range, built-in dishwasher and other appliances will make guests feel right at home.

• A counter-height peninsula with counter stools doubles as a prep area with additional storage below, as well as a place to sample everything from hors d'oeuvres to gourmet main-course dishes..

Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service. Interior decorator Candice Olson hosts "Candice Tells All," which appears on HGTV.