Basement level: does your house actually need one

A basement level is one of those decisions that's easy to put off for later, since it doesn't affect the house's exterior. That's exactly why it's most often underestimated when planning the budget, even though it can add significant usable area without increasing the building's footprint.

No basement

A standard foundation with no additional underground level — the most predictable option in terms of cost and construction timeline. The logical choice if you don't need extra area, or if the plot or budget doesn't allow for it.

Technical basement

Space for the boiler room, storage, and technical systems, moved out of the living part of the house. A practical solution that frees up the main floors from utility rooms, adding only a modest few percent to the budget.

Living basement

A full-fledged space for living functions — a gym, spa area, home cinema, or an extra guest room. A more expensive option due to waterproofing, ventilation, and lighting requirements, but it delivers substantially more usable area on the same plot.

When it's worth it, and when it isn't

• A small plot, or wanting to make the most of every square meter — a living basement justifies the higher cost

• Limited budget with enough area on the main floors already — a standard foundation without a basement is the smarter choice

• You need space for utilities but no extra comfort requirements — a technical basement as the middle ground

The cost difference between the three options depends on the area and terrain of your specific plot. In the construction configurator you can compare all three at once and see how each affects the estimated budget for your house.