Determine Your Needs

• 1). Measure the dimensions of your basement. Draw a rough sketch.
  
  
• 2). Decide how much storage space you need and figure out what you intend to store.
  
  
• 3). Based on steps 1 and 2, make a rough plan for your storage room. Include considerations of size, shape, and electrical work. Include dimensions of vertical storage and leave room for growth. Will additional lights and power outlets be needed? What about heating, cooling and dehumidifying?
  
  
• 4). Consider (and research, if necessary) the special needs of the items you intend to store. Wine, electronics and paper records all have different requirements, some of which will directly affect your build.
  
  
• 5). During this stage, it may be helpful to surf the Internet or browse appropriate magazines for ideas.
  
  

Draw a Detailed Floor Plan

• 1). Once you have a rough idea of your needs, draw a basic plan of what the new basement will look like. If you haven't done a plan before, get help from somebody with experience. When you draw your plans, you will need to take into account such complicated elements as load-bearing beams, distance from heat sources and routes for electrical wire and plumbing. Your expert will also be able to advise you on any special needs for your climate regarding moisture, mold and mildew.
  
  
• 2). If you can draw plans, draw a detailed plan for the project. If not, seriously consider hiring an expert to do so. In many places, professional plans are a requirement to receive a building permit.
  
  
• 3). Get the proper permits and permissions from your city. Be sure to also check if your neighborhood association has any covenant that affect this kind of project.
  
  

The Floor

• 1). If the floor is completely unfinished, level the floor.
  
  
• 2). If you want drainage or plumbing in your basement, install any subfloor pipes.
  
  
• 3). If desired, pour a concrete foundation.
  
  
• 4). Install whatever subflooring your plan requires. Once you're done, the floor should be ready for the finishing cover, whether you want carpet, linoleum or another flooring type.
  
  

The Walls

• 1). Frame in the walls according to your plan, paying attention to special cases such as electrical, ventilation and load-bearing walls.
  
  
• 2). Install ventilation systems, electrical wiring and other special considerations like phone, Internet, and cable wires.
  
  
• 3). Hang the sheetrock panels on your wall frames. If you intend to hang a ceiling, do so at this time.
  
  

Finishing Touches

• 1). Mud, paint or panel the walls according to your plan.
  
  
• 2). Add carpet, linoleum or other flooring as desired.
  
  
• 3). Install light fixtures, electrical outlets and other special needs.