Project Glen
Guelph Basement Renovation
An unused and unfinished 2,000 SF basement in Guelph’s East End is transformed into a tailored extension of the home—designed for both family connection and retreat. Embracing its generous ceiling height, we carved out distinct zones throughout including a living area, bar, kids play space, guest suite, home gym, bathroom, generous storage area and a spot for hockey memorabilia. The result is a flexible, purpose-driven lower level that adapts to the rhythm of family life.
Location: Guelph, ON
Photography: Lauren Weiler Photography
Design and Construction: Otis Interiors
Project Glen Tour
Welcome to Project Glen — a refined and purpose-driven basement renovation in Guelph’s East End. Designed as both a family hub and private retreat, this 2,000 SF space now features distinct zones for living, entertaining, play, wellness, and rest. From the kids’ climbing wall and activity zone to the custom bar, guest suite, and gallery wall of hockey memorabilia, every detail was crafted to balance style with everyday function. In this video, we walk you through the transformation, sharing the story behind the design and the thoughtful planning that brought it to life.
Our Clients
This busy, young family longed to finish their basement to create an entertainment hub for their family to enjoy.
They required a basement that worked harder for their needs—offering separation between grown-up gatherings and kids' daily energy. They already loved their home and saw the basement as untapped potential: a space that could reflect their modern farmhouse style while offering laid-back luxury and livable comfort.
Starting with a blank slate that already featured tall ceilings, we approached the layout with intention—balancing the flow of communal zones (living area, bar and kids play area) with the privacy of a guest suite, bathroom, and workout room. Every inch was thoughtfully planned to deliver both flexibility and purpose.
The result is a warm, refined entertainment retreat layered with custom millwork, cozy textures, and personal details. A kids’ activity zone greets you at the base of the stairs, setting a playful tone and encouraging play. Hockey collectibles and memorabilia—displayed with care—adds a personal touch without overpowering the design. A sliding barn door anchors a long hallway, leading to tucked-away wellness spaces, while patterned tile and wallpaper bring comfort and contrast to the tall, light-filled rooms of the guest suite and bathroom.
Together, it’s a cohesive extension of the main level—designed for how they live, unwind, and entertain.
Project Features
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Custom floor plan suited to a growing family needs
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Kids climbing wall and activity zone
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Living area with integrated high-end audio/visual system
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Gallery wall of signed collectible hockey memorabilia
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Wet bar and games table
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Tall ceilings
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Custom millwork
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Ample seasonal storage
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Wellness room
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Guest suite
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Full bathroom
Project Details
What began as a raw, concrete shell became a warm, purpose-built extension of the home. Like many basements, it started as one expansive, unfinished space—but through careful listening and collaboration, we mapped out how it could truly serve this family’s day-to-day rhythm.
We designed a tailored floorplan that defined distinct zones for gathering, wellness, play, and rest—each one layered with intention. From lighting to layout, every decision was rooted in thoughtful space planning and refined craftsmanship. Mechanical systems were seamlessly integrated, finishes were selected for both function and feel, and the styling brought cohesion and comfort.
The result? A basement that feels anything but—inviting, polished, and personalized to live beautifully at every level.
The Neighbourhood
Tucked into a quiet pocket of Guelph’s East End, this original custom-built home offers character, warmth, and a rare sense of privacy—surrounded by lush green space yet just minutes from city conveniences. It’s the kind of setting that feels both grounded and elevated. In a neighbourhood where homes already have strong bones, homeowners are seeking thoughtful upgrades that continue to differentiate their homes by adding personal character, a great sense of style and lasting value.
Cost, Timeline, & Challenges
Explore the estimated costs, time to completion and both challenges and solutions that were presented
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$175-225K Plus HST
2025 pricing
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Design and Pre-Construction: Approx. 8-10 months
Construction: Approx. 16-18 weeks (including furnishing and styling touches)
*Property unoccupied during construction
Design and pre-construction planning (conceptual design, engineering, estimating and final design presentation) for the project started in Summer 2023 and we planned the construction to begin in Spring 2024. Once construction was underway, the project took approx. 16-18 months to complete. In this case, the home was occupied during construction. This timeline included furnishings and styling of the space for finishing touches.
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The biggest challenges we had to overcome working on this project were:
Developing a functional and flexible layout that could work hard for the family
Level and plumb walls, ceilings and floors in a such a large, continuous open concept living space
Crafting a lighting plan with layers for comfort and warmth
Bulk head planning and placement
Building a sturdy and lasting kids play zone
Elevate your basement beyond the basics
If you’re in Guelph or the surrounding area and ready for a custom-designed, fully managed transformation, let’s chat.
Schedule your complimentary Discovery Call and take the first step toward a space that’s tailored, timeless, and built for how you live.