Is this project worth the investment?

[McKBrick]

We have a small room (our house is a split level) - just off the garage, on the landing between the basement and the main floor.

There's a small room - about 6x8' that houses the electrical box. There is also some ductwork showing, but it's not extensive. There's a small window that overlooks our backyard. The room is about 50% above, 50% below ground, with the walls made up of cinderblock.

I currently use it as storage and a sewing room. I was thinking about moving the storage, hanging some wallpaper (of course laying the backing that makes the walls smoother, since it is block), installing a new light (more mini-chandalier-ish), and laying some laminate floor. All in all, I'm hoping to keep this project cost under $1k.

Anyway, do you think it's worth turning such a small room into something nice? It could be my sewing room, a playroom, etc.

Would I be wasting that $1k by putting in floors and wall decor? (rather than adding it to our savings and using on a larger project next year)

Thoughts?

 

[oldognewtrick]

I don't know if we can give you an answer on this... But, will you see an increase in property value? Will you feel better having the work done and will your level of satisfaction improve with the expenditures? What level of importance is this to you? This is more about how you will feel or be able to use the space. If it feels good then my suggestion is do it.

Disclaimer:Advise provided in this thread is free and worth every penny spent

 

[Our-1st-Home]

I would do it! It sounds like you really want to improve this space. I am the kind of "use all your space" person. It sounds like a fun small project, that could feed your need to re-modle bug. Good luck and post some pic's !

 

[Cork-Guy]

Give it a shot, if you could post some pictures maybe we can give you more suggestions.

 

[Wuzzat?]

Anyway, do you think it's worth turning such a small room into something nice?

I flip a coin.
Heads - you convert the room, and tails - I pay you not to do it.

How much would I have to pay you in the event of 'tails' for you to be completely indifferent as to how the coin lands?

 

[drunkenDIY]

You could use it as a learning experience? It's always nice to start with small projects before tackling something big. Hey, if you're only spending $1K, you might learn a few tricks to laying the floor/smoothing the walls that would pay off in your next project. In my experience, I'd rather have a few small mistakes in flooring/wall covering hidden in a sewing/play room, than smack dab in the middle of the living room...

 

[MnM]

i think its a good idea

 

[granite-girl]

Do you know any realtors who can tell you if it would be a worthwhile project ?
What other projects do you need to save for ? If you are saving for a big kitchen remodel down the road, I'd probably wait.
But if it'll make you feel better about the space & it's use - do it ! You are the one living there. Like drunken(nice name) said, it'll be good practice for future projects.
Good Luck!

 

[user 4883]

I'm not sure what the real question is but, here's my opinion on two angles.
If it makes you happy and you plan on using the room alot, then go for it.
If your asking will it add to the value of your home and/or get a 100% return on your investment, then no. The $1K that you put into it will be offset two fold by the declining property values in this economy.