Often, the game room is a muddle of outcast furniture, old rugs and a big TV. For one visionary couple, it’s a multipurpose space that includes an adult lounge with pool and poker tables, cushy seating and a 10-seat bar flanked by a separate kids’ playroom with monkey bars, swings, and Legos.  

Renovating a Basement Into a Family Game Room with Interior Designer Seashal Belldina

South Hills-based interior designer Seashal Belldina of Interiors by Seashal worked with the homeowners a few years ago on their new build, earning a cover and a multipage spread in a national magazine. But they left the basement unfinished. In 2004, she returned to create a game-room-and-then-some.   

The huge space, which also has a bedroom, bath, exercise room and office is now beautiful, durable, flexible and comfortable.  

With oversized custom furniture, soft lighting, parquet tile flooring, built-in cabinetry and plenty to keep kids engaged, the reimagined space offers carefree entertaining. A sink, dishwasher, microwave and plenty of electrical outlets hidden behind the two-level bar make potlucks or catered events a cinch. 

Belldina designed the swivel chair and sectional sofa. Upholstered in rich, deep, green velvet layered with jewel tones, the furniture picks up the colors in the rug and is accented by paisley pillows and barstools.  

“We wanted to color-wash the space with jewel tones so that it would seem dark and moody for movies and entertaining,” Belldina says. A gold ceiling, gold mesh detail on the lighted cabinetry and a cooper table top add warmth and contrast. 

The result is a sophisticated, immersive retreat that feels both elevated and livable. 

Perhaps best of all, the adult zone transforms easily into a home theater for family movie nights. The couple’s four children, ranging from toddler to preteen, simply move the light-weight coffee table, pop out gigantic velvety pillows from a secret hiding place behind the sofa, and flop on the floor in front of—of course—the gigantic TV.  

Tips for DIY Renovations

A professional designer can be a smart choice, but Belldina offers a few tips for DIYers: 

• Think about how you want to use the space and create zones for activities. 
• Install high quality, up to date recessed lighting 
• Make sure your TV is the right size for the room and the right distance from your seating area 
• Talk to your contractor or a flooring store about flooring options and hire a good installer.  Consider the moisture rating—luxury vinyl plank (LVP) is an option if your basement is damp. 
• A good coat of new paint goes a long way. 

Story by Susan Fleming Morgans
Photography by Dave Bryce

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