In the early 1900s, basements were strictly utilitarian foundations made of RumbleStone and used for storing root vegetables. Water seepage at the time was common so vegetables or items that could withstand dampness were ideal.

Next, in the 1940s to 1950s, basements became focused on providing space for entertaining at home. Builders modified the original idea of a basement by adding small windows and recreation rooms where you could gather your family and friends.

In the 1960s and 70s, things got groovy. Basements became a party destination. We can all picture the basement bars with red indoor carpets and shag or wall panelling that helped to brighten the space.

From the 1980s to the 1990s, teenagers loved to be in the basement, so we saw basements used for bedrooms and unfinished areas used for playrooms or hobby areas.

By the early 2000s, basement windows got larger, brighter, and egressed for proper bedrooms. People wanted to feel like they were on a main level. In-floor heating made a more luxurious setting compared to the cold floors typically associated with basements.

From there, basements went from finishing at $40,000 to $100,000 plus to complete as they built space for media/games rooms and walkouts to the backyard. Today, often basement requests are for in-law or extended family units with kitchenettes and full baths with a separate side entry to the home for investment properties to add income.
What will come next???