This 100+ year-old Alexandria home had all the charm its owners could ask for—history, privacy, and a location they loved. What it didn’t have was a lower level that matched their lifestyle. Our team helped them transform a dated, underutilized basement into a speakeasy-inspired theater room, a fully equipped home gym, and a full bathroom, giving their family the ultimate hangout space.
$355,633
No timeline
Alexandria, VA
“We couldn’t be happier. We are now able to sit all three kids at the counter where they can eat. We’re able to entertain and are really excited to have our kids grow up in a house with a kitchen like this.”
—Lauren, Waxhaw, NC
With both homeowners frequently traveling for work, we adapted our process to fit their schedules—conducting virtual design sessions and creating multiple 3D renders so decisions could be made from anywhere. When on-site meetings were needed, the team made them count, ensuring every detail was locked in efficiently and collaboratively.
The tin-tiled ceiling, custom brick walls, and projector lounge transformed the basement into a moody, cinematic retreat where the whole family, and their kids' friends, actually want to spend time.
A dedicated, fully equipped home gym means no more driving to work out. Fitness is now just a flight of stairs away for two parents who never wanted to skip a session.
The full basement bathroom with a walk-in shower, vessel-sink vanity, and oil-rubbed bronze fixtures means no one has to trek upstairs mid-workout or mid-movie.
Custom brick sourced from California was carefully matched to the home's existing masonry, wrapping the walls in authenticity and making the new space feel like it's always been there.
We recommended starting with the basement as a smart first phase, allowing the homeowners to experience the process before committing to upper-level renovations and additions.
The theater area features a large-format projector screen with bar-height seating behind the sofa, creating a layered, social viewing experience.
The design evolved from an initial whiskey bar concept into a richer, more layered speakeasy vibe that better reflected the family's personality and the home's history.
An existing brick fireplace was incorporated into the theater room design, adding warmth and an authentic focal point to the space.
What started as the most overlooked level of a century-old home is now where the family gathers, works out, watches movies, and makes memories. WISA took a phased, client-first approach—designing virtually around busy schedules—to deliver a basement with real speakeasy soul, a gym that keeps the whole family moving, and craftsmanship that honors over 100 years of history.
Every home has a space that’s not pulling its weight. Let’s find yours and turn it into something extraordinary.
