Athlete's Basement

RC was originally approached to redesign this client’s backyard with the aim of transforming a typical, underutilized, urban rear yard, into a garden oasis with an in-ground swimming pool.  The lack of basement access from the rear garden was an inconvenience to the clients.  RC proposed incorporating a new basement access stair into the design of the garden.  Once the feasibility of this was clarified, the clients decided a more ambitious project was in order.  The decision was made to expand the scope of the project to include a full basement renovation.

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The client is a former world-class triathlete.  He tasked RC with designing a sleek workout and recovery space where he could train and where his family could relax and play.  In the end, the existing basement was entirely demolished.  The floor slab was lowered to accommodate greater ceiling heights, a new concrete floor with hydronic radiant heating was installed, a flexible main room includes space for a treadmill, other workout equipment, as well as lounge space for movie watching and video games, a air hockey table, and a murphy bed are also accommodated.  RC designed minimal details for the custom maple millwork as well as for the sleek custom/ integrated lighting solutions.

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A steam shower was included in the spa-like bathroom.  Generous storage, laundry, and dog washing areas were provided as well.

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This basement was transformed from a ho-hum residential basement into a warm, inviting, and highly functional inner sanctum.

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Team:

Andrew Curtis  Partner, MRAIC, AIA, OAQ, LEED BD+C‍

Galen Rochon  Architectural Designer

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Photography © Adrien Williams