Grace Street Victorian: Chapter Four
When I first sat down to write about this space, I found myself procrastinating. Despite how proud I was of it at the time, it took some reflection to capture just how meaningful this project was. The basement in our first home was the very first space we tackled.
While contractors handled the underpinning and general construction, we took on much of the finishing work ourselves. To give you a sense of the timeline, this was pre-COVID. Knowing we needed to stretch the budget for the entire house, we were careful to avoid overspending. By making thoughtful choices, we maximized both the functionality and the cost-effectiveness of the space.
We transformed a dark, uninviting basement into an ultra-functional, five-star Airbnb.
The flooring was a key decision: we chose vinyl plank, which we laid directly over the existing tile and the rough concrete in the underpinned kitchen area. It was a durable and budget-friendly option that worked seamlessly across the space.
Uncovering and exposing the brick walls hidden beneath layers of plaster, lathe, and tile was a labour of love. Once revealed, we painted the brick white to brighten and open up the room.
To bring in natural light, we replaced the door with one featuring glass panels.
The kitchen was a carefully planned IKEA setup that allowed us to create a dining and bar area without breaking the bank.
For the bathroom, we removed the outdated tub and stripped everything down to start fresh. We opted for a timeless black-and-white design - a choice that has stood the test of time, even six years later. Every decision balanced aesthetics and affordability, ensuring the space felt classic rather than trendy.
One of my favourite DIY projects in the space was reupholstering a set of chairs I found on Facebook Marketplace for a steal. After giving them a new look, they became standout pieces for the Airbnb.
We bought these two chairs on Facebook Marketplace for $45!
In the bedroom, we faced a unique challenge: the original coal/oil furnace had left behind a patch of concrete. Rather than incur the cost of removing it, we embraced the quirk by cladding it in high-quality plywood and turning it into a Japanese-style bed platform. It’s one of those design moments where necessity truly became the mother of invention.
These photos, taken with my iPhone for our Airbnb listing, might not do the space full justice, but they tell the story of a thoughtful, budget-conscious renovation that we’re still proud of today.
It’s a reminder that even with limited resources, smart choices and creativity can bring a space to life.