Basement Finishing & Remodeling Contractor Kensington, MD
From design to completion, our Kensington basement finishing & remodeling team has delivered 1,000+ transformations — and we'll have yours done in as little as 6-9 weeks.
Basement Finishing Contractors in Kensington, MD
Kensington's tree-lined streets and charming early 20th-century homes—many featuring classic Craftsman, Colonial, and Tudor Revival architecture—offer families a walkable, close-knit community just minutes from the antique shops and bistros of historic Howard Avenue. With homes in this sought-after enclave often sitting on generous lots but with traditional footprints, homeowners increasingly look below grade to expand their living space without sacrificing yard or curb appeal. Our basement finishing in Kensington transforms underutilized lower levels into custom home theaters, climate-controlled wine cellars, guest suites with full baths, or flexible ADU-style spaces perfect for multi-generational living.
With median home values in Kensington consistently above $700,000, the cost-per-square-foot advantage of basement finishing makes exceptional financial sense compared to moving or adding a costly second-story addition. For a fraction of relocation expenses—closing costs, realtor fees, moving, and the emotional toll—you can add 800 to 1,200 square feet of finished, climate-controlled space that enhances both lifestyle and resale value. Homeowners throughout Montgomery County, from Kensington to nearby basement remodeling projects in Laytonsville, are discovering that maximizing their existing footprint delivers superior ROI while keeping them rooted in the neighborhoods they love.
If you're planning a basement project in Kensington, you may find our Montgomery County Permit Guide helpful for understanding local permit requirements, egress codes, and inspection timelines. Our experienced team manages the entire permitting process and coordinates inspections seamlessly, keeping your project on track for our typical 6-9 week completion timeline. As a locally based contractor serving the DMV since 2009, we pride ourselves on clear communication, reliable scheduling, and delivering high-end craftsmanship that reflects the character of your Kensington home.
Recognition
Basement Transformations
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Basement Transformations
Before the remodel, the basement was unfinished and mid-construction, with exposed framing, insulation, and rough mechanicals visible. Open wall cavities and the framed opening for the future fireplace show the space early in its transformation — defined in size, but lacking comfort, flow, and livability.
After the transformation, the basement became a fully finished, sophisticated living space. Custom wall paneling, warm wood flooring, recessed lighting, and a coffered ceiling create a clean, modern atmosphere, while a sleek fireplace anchors the room as a welcoming place to relax or entertain.
Before the remodel, this basement was already finished — but bland. Neutral finishes, basic lighting, and an open layout made the space usable, yet uninspiring. It lacked character, purpose, and any real reason to spend time there.
After the transformation, the basement became a custom wine cellar and home theater designed for entertaining. Stone accent walls, built-in wine storage, and layered lighting turned a generic space into a refined destination that feels intentional and elevated.
Before the remodel, this basement was already finished — but bland. Neutral finishes, basic lighting, and an open layout made the space usable, yet uninspiring. It lacked character, purpose, and any real reason to spend time there.
After the transformation, the basement became a custom wine cellar and home theater designed for entertaining. Stone accent walls, built-in wine storage, and layered lighting turned a generic space into a refined destination that feels intentional and elevated.
We love our clients and they love us!
The overwhelmingly positive reception from our clients makes BasementRemodeling.com stand out from other basement remodeling companies in Maryland, Northern Virginia (NOVA) and DC. It definitely means something to us, and we think it should mean something to you, too!
Want to know what our past clients have to say about their basement remodeling experiences with BasementRemodeling.com?
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Alan SullivanStars: 5From start to finish, designing our basement with BasementRemodeling.com has been first rate.
01/23/2022 Maryland -
Tom CorlettStars: 5Basement Remodeling just completed our basement remodeling project, on time and on budget. We couldn't be more pleased! We investigated other remodeling companies but chose Basement Remodeling after o
04/12/2026 Chantilly, VA -
Tanya LervikStars: 5They made the process nearly painless with detailed quote info and consistent communication.
01/13/2023 Maryland -
Joel S SchindlerStars: 5We recently had the privilege of working with Basement Remodeling for a complete renovation of our basement, and we are beyond thrilled with the results. From the very beginning of the project to its
04/12/2026 Washington, DC -
Sonya Subbayya SuttonStars: 5From beginning to end, working with this company was a pleasure. The quality of the work is excellent, matched by their very thorough communications..
04/22/2025 Washington, DC -
Kelly LittleStars: 5To the entire team, please allow me to express my gratitude, appreciation and extreme satisfaction with your high quality work. We couldn't be more pleased with the outcomes. The team was kind, profes
04/12/2026 Washington, DC
The overwhelmingly positive reception from our clients makes BasementRemodeling.com stand out from other basement remodeling companies in Maryland, Northern Virginia (NOVA) and DC. It definitely means something to us, and we think it should mean something to you, too!
Your Local Basement Remodeling Experts in Kensington, MD
Your Local Basement Remodeling Experts in Kensington, MD
We have been a trusted and dedicated basement remodeling company since 2006. With over 900 of completed projects across Maryland and surrounding areas, we are the most reliable family owned remodeling business in the area. We have been rated #1 in basement remodeling in the DMV area, based on hundreds of REAL customers' reviews. We are looking forward to helping you create a beautifully-remodeled basement with all of your desired features and budget in mind. Schedule your free in-home consultation and let us transform your basement today!
Basement Ideas & Inspiration for Kensington Homeowners
You can browse through BasementRemodeling.com's readily available award-winning catalogue of basement ideas to get creative with your basement remodeling. You can mix and match them to form a unique idea of what you want your basement to look like.
All of the pictures you will see are the inspiration behind our finished basement services we deliver to our clients. We provide a guarantee that our work will never disappoint and our customer testimonials further that.
Can't pick out a design? BasementRemodeling.com offers interior design consultations and services, making us the full package as your basement remodeling contractors. We can turn your basement into anything you can imagine.Your basement idea may include hardwood flooring to turn your space into a family room. You may want carpet so you can turn your basement into a comfortable gym. A basement renovation may include fixing bathroom furnishings, adding or replacing sinks, counters, tile and more. We can provide any specification you may have to your basement, floor to ceiling. Anything you dream of, we will make it a reality for you!
All of the pictures you will see are the inspiration behind our finished basement services we deliver to our clients. We provide a guarantee that our work will never disappoint and our customer testimonials further that.
Can't pick out a design? BasementRemodeling.com offers interior design consultations and services, making us the full package as your basement remodeling contractors. We can turn your basement into anything you can imagine.Your basement idea may include hardwood flooring to turn your space into a family room. You may want carpet so you can turn your basement into a comfortable gym. A basement renovation may include fixing bathroom furnishings, adding or replacing sinks, counters, tile and more. We can provide any specification you may have to your basement, floor to ceiling. Anything you dream of, we will make it a reality for you!
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Basement Finishing and Remodeling, Vienna, VA
BasementRemodeling.com -
Perfect Basement Remodel for Entertaining your guests - Gaithersburg, MD ,
BasementRemodeling.com -
Perfect Basement Remodel for Entertaining your guests - Gaithersburg, MD ,
BasementRemodeling.com -
Basement Finishing / Remodeling, Potomac, MD
BasementRemodeling.com
Recent Basement Projects Near Kensington, MD
Every project you see below was designed and built by our team for real homeowners across Montgomery County.
Basement with Home Theater & Wet Bar - Potomac, MD
Home Theater Experience: A dedicated theater room with tiered recliner seating, ambient blue LED lighting, and state-of-the-art audiovisual technology provides an immersive cinematic experience.
Sophisticated Wet Bar: A sleek and functional bar area with high-end finishes, stylish barstools, and accent lighting makes entertaining effortless.
Spa-Like Bathroom: A luxurious bathroom with a walk-in shower, high-end fixtures, and sleek tilework adds a touch of sophistication and practicality.
view project
Playful Basement with Kids Playroom - Germantown, MD
Modern Wet Bar with Premium Finishes: A kitchen-style wet bar equipped with modern appliances, a sink with vanity faucet, and elegant marble countertop creates a sophisticated entertaining space in pale yellow with white trim and recessed lighting.
Whimsical Children's Playroom with Secret Entrance: A delightfully modern mock house stencil features an adorable mailbox and openable red door that leads into a full-sized secondary playroom or storage room, creating a magical play experience for kids.
Luxurious Full Bathroom with Kohler Fixtures: A complete bathroom showcases pale yellow walls beautifully contrasted with clean white marble countertops, white tiled flooring, and a tiled shower with tub enclosure by Kohler.
view project
Basement Finishing & Remodeling - Ashton, MD
Earthy Downstairs Den with Fireplace: Pine green walls, cotton white ceiling, and cream carpet blend to create a uniquely scenic family room with a fireplace, capturing a powerful rustic beauty for a truly outdoorsy feel.
Contemporary Office Space: A modern office featuring a dropped-in ceiling with copper-colored panels and LVT flooring creates a uniform workspace full of contemporary textures and designs.
Multi-Purpose Laundry Room and Workshop: A neutral-themed laundry room with washer and dryer doubles as a small workshop, complete with a wooden bench, storage locker, and ample shelving for maximum functionality.
view project
How Long Does It Take to Finish a Basement?
- Get an estimated cost to finish the basement
- Initial in-home consultation
- Visit our showroom (optional)
- Design & final costs consultation via zoom
- Project preparation & pre-construction meeting
Finishing your basement takes 6 to 9 weeks from demolition to finishing touches. We begin with framing and rough mechanicals in weeks 1-2, creating the skeleton of your new space. Weeks 2-3 bring in the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC crews to run all the behind-the-walls systems. During weeks 3-5, we insulate and install drywall - this is when those concrete walls become real rooms. Weeks 6-7, see your flooring go down and trim go up, transforming the space from construction site to living area. In weeks 7-8, we install the special features like bathrooms, wet bars, or home theaters that make your basement unique. Finally, weeks 8-9 are all about those finishing touches and punch list items that ensure everything's perfect.
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Preparations and permits
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ROUGH-IN/Framing
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Plumbing
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Electrical rough-in
- Sprinklers (fire protection)
- Insulation
- Inspections
- Drywall installation
- Drywall finishing
- Painting
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Doors and trims install
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Wetbar/kitchenette cabinets install
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Tiles installation
- Painting
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Electrcial (outlets/switches install)
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LVT installation
- Painting countertop/frameless glass/enclosure installation
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Bathroom completion
- Final electrcial (outlets / swithes plates and lights install)
- Final details completion
- Inspections
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Carpet installation
- Paint touch-ups
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Quality control
Basement Finishing Cost in Kensington, MD
Kensington's charming historic districts—including the 20895 and portions of 20815 zip codes—feature homes on generous lots where basement finishing is one of the smartest ways to add 800 to 2,000 square feet of livable space without expanding your footprint. Montgomery County's strong real estate market and proximity to Metro, the National Institutes of Health, and downtown Bethesda make basement remodeling a high-value investment for families looking to stay in the Kensington area long-term. Whether you're near Antique Row or in the Warner Circle neighborhood, a finished basement significantly enhances both your daily lifestyle and resale appeal.
| Finish Level | Cost/Sq Ft | 1,000 Sq Ft Total | What You Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essential | $49–$55 | $55,000–$65,000* | Quality construction, code-compliant, bathroom, dedicated PM |
| Premium | $85–$110 | $85,000–$110,000 | Essential + designer bathroom, wet bar, or home theater |
| Luxury | $150–$300+ | $150,000–$300,000+ | Signature spaces: wine cellar, wellness center, reference theater |
*Essential pricing includes bathroom addition. Core work without bathroom: $49,000–$55,000.
Why Our Pricing Is Higher
We pull all required Montgomery County permits for every basement project, assign you a dedicated project manager from design through final inspection, and provide transparent, fixed-price contracts with no hidden costs or surprise change orders. Our pricing reflects the true cost of doing things right the first time, meeting all code requirements, and delivering a basement that passes inspection without delays.
Unlike competitors who rely on rotating subcontractors, we employ long-term, experienced crews who know Montgomery County's building codes inside and out. For details on what to expect during the permitting process, see our Montgomery County Permit Guide.
Not sure what your square footage will cost? Our basement cost calculator provides a tailored estimate in about 60 seconds.
What Kensington Homeowners Are Building
Kensington attracts a mix of young families, professionals working at nearby NIH or Walter Reed, and long-time residents who value the Town of Kensington's walkable charm and excellent schools. Their basement projects reflect a desire for flexible family spaces, dedicated home offices, and accommodations for aging parents or adult children.
Multi-Generational Suite with Kitchenette $100,000–$140,000
Many Kensington families in larger Colonials and Victorians near Howard Avenue are creating full in-law suites with private bedroom, full bath, and wet bar or kitchenette to accommodate aging parents or boomerang adult children. These spaces include separate entrances when possible, luxury vinyl plank flooring for durability, and accessible design features. With NIH and Walter Reed nearby, some homeowners also create caregiver quarters or private spaces for medical professionals providing in-home care.
Home Office + Playroom for Young Families $85,000–$115,000
Kensington's proximity to the Capital Beltway and Metro makes it popular with teleworking professionals who need dedicated office space away from family activity. These basements typically combine a quiet home office with built-in desks and excellent lighting, alongside an open playroom with durable flooring and plenty of storage for toys and games. Families near Kensington Parkwood and Rock Creek Hills especially value the additional square footage for kids to spread out while parents work from home.
Entertainment Basement with Bar and Media Area $95,000–$125,000
Homeowners in Kensington's established neighborhoods often create sophisticated entertainment spaces with custom wet bars, wine storage, and comfortable media rooms for watching Capitals or Commanders games with friends. These designs incorporate recessed lighting, high-end finishes that complement the historic character of their main-level homes, and flexible seating areas. Many projects near the Town of Kensington center include powder rooms and sound-dampening features so upstairs bedrooms stay quiet during gatherings.
Fitness Room and Flexible Recreation Space $75,000–$100,000
Health-conscious professionals working at nearby NIH or in Bethesda increasingly want dedicated home gyms to avoid commute time to fitness centers. These Kensington basements feature rubber flooring, wall-mounted TV, and climate control to support year-round workouts, along with open space for yoga, Peloton setups, or kids' sports practice. Homeowners appreciate the flexibility to repurpose portions of the space as family needs change, making it a practical long-term investment in their Kensington home.
Basement Finishing FAQs for Kensington Homeowners
What does a typical basement finishing project cost in Kensington?
Most Kensington basement projects range from $75,000 to $140,000 depending on size, layout complexity, and finishes. Homes in the 20895 zip code with larger basements and custom features like wet bars, in-law suites, or multiple bathrooms tend toward the higher end of this range. Our pricing includes all Montgomery County permits, dedicated project management, and transparent contracts with no hidden fees.
How long does the Montgomery County permit process take for basement finishing?
Montgomery County permit review typically takes 3 to 5 weeks depending on project complexity and current Department of Permitting Services workload. We handle all permit applications, plan submissions, and inspection scheduling on your behalf, and our familiarity with Montgomery County's requirements helps avoid delays from plan rejections or revision requests. Most Kensington basement projects are completed within 6 to 9 weeks once permits are issued and work begins.
Do older Kensington homes have ceiling height issues for basement finishing?
Many of Kensington's historic homes, especially Colonials and Victorians built in the early to mid-1900s, have basement ceiling heights that can be tight by modern standards. Montgomery County requires a minimum finished ceiling height of 7 feet in habitable spaces, and we carefully measure existing conditions and ductwork to confirm feasibility during the initial consultation. When ceiling height is limited, we explore solutions like relocating mechanicals, using shallow recessed lighting, and selecting flooring that maximizes headroom.
How long will my Kensington basement project take from start to finish?
Including design, Montgomery County permit approval, construction, and final inspection, most Kensington basement projects take 10 to 14 weeks total. The actual construction phase typically runs 6 to 9 weeks once permits are in hand. We provide a detailed timeline during your consultation and keep you updated throughout the process, with your dedicated project manager coordinating all inspections and trade scheduling.
What kind of return on investment can I expect from finishing my Kensington basement?
Basement finishing projects in Montgomery County typically return 70 to 75 percent of the investment at resale, and Kensington's desirable location near Metro, top-rated schools, and charming downtown can push returns even higher. Beyond resale value, a finished basement adds significant daily lifestyle value for families who want more usable space without moving to a larger, more expensive home. Many Kensington homeowners find that adding 1,000 to 1,500 square feet of finished living space allows them to stay in the neighborhood they love as their families grow.
How Can We Transform Your Kensington Basement?
Three Ways to Finish Your Kensington Basement
Essential Basement Remodel – Perfect for Kensington's classic Cape Cods and bungalows near Noyes Library and Town Center, our Essential tier transforms unfinished lower levels into comfortable, code-compliant living space. We handle all the fundamentals—professional framing, Montgomery County-permitted electrical and HVAC, moisture control, and durable finishes—creating a clean, functional basement that adds real value to your home. This straightforward approach gives families near Warner Circle and the historic district the extra square footage they need without unnecessary complexity.
Premium Basement Remodel – Kensington homeowners often need dedicated work-from-home offices, guest suites for visiting family, or refined recreation areas that match their home's character. Our Premium tier delivers upgraded finishes, custom built-ins, sophisticated lighting design, and thoughtfully zoned spaces that complement the established neighborhoods around Kensington Parkwood and Connecticut Avenue. Whether you're in one of the charming Colonials near Rock Creek or a mid-century home closer to Ken-Gar, this package creates beautiful, high-utility space tailored to how your family actually lives.
Luxury Basement Remodel – For discerning homeowners in Kensington's most distinguished properties, our Luxury tier brings the same attention to detail found in the town's tree-lined streets and meticulously maintained estates. We create show-stopping spaces with custom millwork, designer wet bars, climate-controlled wine storage, dedicated home theaters with acoustic engineering, and spa-quality bathrooms with heated floors and premium tile work. This is bespoke craftsmanship for residents who appreciate Kensington's unique blend of small-town charm and proximity to the capital's cultural amenities.
Not sure which option fits your home? Use our Cost Calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your specific Kensington basement layout and the custom features you're considering.
OUR PROCESS