(ARA) – It’s no longer a dark, gloomy place to stash holiday supplies, store neglected exercise equipment or hide out-of-date furniture. Basements are becoming “dream spaces” for many baby boomers and their loved ones.

Whether it’s a private living suite to accommodate a child or grandchild who’s moved back home, a cheerful craft studio or a fully loaded man cave, basement renovations are popular home improvement options.

“Today many baby boomers are remodeling their homes instead of building or moving to a new one,” says Pella Windows & Doors spokesperson, Kathy Krafka Harkema. “Kitchens and bathrooms are often remodeled, and today basements are also being updated to create fun entertainment zones. Adding new windows and using warm colors can transform a basement into a home gym, workshop, wine cellar or a high-tech media room.”

Safety first

Renovating the basement and adding bedrooms? You’ll likely need egress windows to create an easily accessible exit in case of a fire. Essential for safety, egress (emergency escape and rescue) windows also lighten up a dark basement – making it more inviting.

Egress windows are larger than a common basement window, syas Cordell Burton, Pella product qualification manager. Egress defines the minimum width, height and square footage of the window opening. “Each level of the home has different egress requirements,” Burton says.

Window shopping

Casement windows – featuring one hinged sash that cranks out – are easy to open and a popular choice for basements, Burton says. However, casements require a wider window well on the home exterior, so consider that in your remodeling plans. Pella offers many energy-efficient casement window options, ranging from vinyl and fiberglass composite to wood styles.

If exterior space is limited, Burton suggests a sliding window – featuring two sashes where one sash slides left or right. Sliding egress windows must meet higher width requirements and are available in budget-friendly vinyl and fiberglass options.

Consult with a local building code expert or make sure your contractor is familiar with your area’s building codes before beginning a basement renovation, Burton advises.

Wonderful walkouts

If your home has a walkout basement, consider adding a beautiful new patio door to create an impressive focal point inside and out.

Here’s an additional tip from Burton: If you have limited patio space outside, install an in-swing hinged patio door – one that opens into your basement, providing more usable space on the patio. Consider your climate conditions as well. In areas with heavy snowfall, an in-swing hinged patio door may be your best option. But if you have limited room inside, consider an out-swing hinged door.

Or opt for sliding patio doors, like the energy-efficient new Pella 350 Series vinyl patio door line, which features distinctive design possibilities with a choice of two-, three- or four-panel doors to create more natural light and an expanded view. Optional shades or blinds are permanently sealed between the glass to stay clean, provide light control and increased privacy. And the blind design with no room-side cords is safer for homes with children and pets.

Keep it comfortable

As you create your dream basement, ask your contractor to incorporate universal design features.

“Update your home now with your future safety, comfort and convenience in mind,” Krafka Harkema says. “Adding 36-inch wide doors, stylish levers rather than knobs on doors, easy-access storage areas and other universal design features now can make a home easier to live in or visit in the long-term, regardless of a person’s age, size or ability.”