Millhawlk Design & Construction transforms basements into functional, beautiful, and valuable living spaces. Whether you want to finish an unfinished basement, remodel an outdated one, or create a fully custom lifestyle space, our team manages every stage of the project—from design and permitting to construction and final finishes. With decades of experience serving Framingham and the greater MetroWest area, we deliver basements that enhance your home’s comfort, functionality, and value.
Your basement doesn’t have to be dark, damp, or underutilized. At Millhawlk, we specialize in turning basements into spaces that reflect your lifestyle and needs. From practical updates to luxury renovations, our team provides solutions that make the most of every square foot.
Finishing an unfinished basement is one of the best ways to expand your living space. Our team installs walls, flooring, lighting, and trim to transform a raw basement into a fully livable area perfect for bedrooms, playrooms, or home theaters.
If your basement feels outdated, we provide complete remodeling services that update layouts, finishes, and functionality. From replacing old paneling and carpets to creating open, modern floorplans, we breathe new life into existing spaces.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and in-law suites are excellent ways to add value and flexibility to your home. Whether you want a private apartment for family or a rental unit to generate income, we design and build basements with kitchens, bathrooms, and independent entrances that meet code and provide long-term comfort.
Your basement can be more than just storage. We create fully customized spaces such as home gyms, wine cellars, offices, playrooms, and media rooms. These lifestyle basements are tailored to your vision, making your home more enjoyable every day.
We handle every aspect of your basement renovation, from initial design to final touches. Our services include insulation, flooring, lighting, and custom basement interior design tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you need a playroom for the kids, a guest suite, or a dedicated workout space, we create solutions that seamlessly blend with the rest of your home.
We meet to understand your goals, evaluate your basement, and discuss design ideas.
Our team creates detailed plans and manages the permitting process to ensure everything is up to code.
From framing and drywall to flooring, trim, and paint, we bring your vision to life with expert craftsmanship.
We complete the final details, review the space with you, and ensure your new basement is ready to enjoy.
When planning a basement project, homeowners often have questions about costs, timelines, design options, and what to expect. At Millhawlk Design & Construction, we believe in providing detailed answers so you can make confident decisions about your home. Below are some of the most common questions we hear from clients in Framingham and MetroWest.
The cost of a basement project varies widely depending on the size of the space, the complexity of the design, and the features you want to include. A basic finished basement that adds drywall, flooring, and paint will cost less than a fully custom remodel with bathrooms, kitchens, or luxury features like wine cellars and gyms. For homeowners in Framingham, basement finishing can be one of the most cost-effective ways to increase living space and add value to a home, often at a lower price per square foot compared to building an addition.
At Millhawlk, we provide customized estimates after assessing your basement and discussing your goals. Because we handle everything in-house, from design and permitting to construction and finishing. You get a clear, transparent price without hidden fees. Our goal is to deliver a basement that fits your vision while maximizing your investment.
Timelines depend on the scope of the project. A straightforward basement finishing project with drywall, flooring, lighting, and painting can take as little as four to six weeks. More extensive remodeling projects that include plumbing, bathrooms, kitchens, or custom lifestyle features may take several months. Factors like permit approvals, material availability, and weather (for exterior access) can also influence the schedule.
The Millhawlk team provides a detailed project plan before construction begins, so you know what to expect at each stage. We also keep communication open throughout the process, updating you on progress and addressing any concerns quickly. Our goal is to complete your basement efficiently without compromising quality.
Finishing a basement is one of the best ways to add usable square footage to your home without changing its footprint. It transforms what was once wasted or underutilized space into areas that can serve multiple purposes. For families, a finished basement might mean an extra bedroom, playroom, or media room. For professionals, it can provide a quiet home office. For those focused on long-term investment, it can add resale value and appeal to potential buyers.
Another major benefit is flexibility. With options like in-law suites or ADUs, a basement can generate rental income or provide private space for extended family members. Lifestyle-focused homeowners often use finished basements to create gyms, wine cellars, or entertainment rooms. By finishing your basement with Millhawlk, you not only increase the functional space in your home but also create a more comfortable and valuable property.
Yes, most basement construction or remodeling projects require permits, especially if you are adding plumbing, electrical systems, or egress windows. Permits ensure that the work complies with local building codes and safety standards. Skipping this step can create problems if you decide to sell your home later, as unpermitted work can lower property value or complicate real estate transactions.
The good news is that Millhawlk manages all permitting on your behalf. We create detailed plans, submit them to the town or city, and coordinate with inspectors to keep your project on track. By handling permits for you, we eliminate stress and ensure your basement remodel meets all local requirements.
Our basement remodeling services are designed to completely transform outdated or unfinished spaces into areas that add comfort, function, and value to your home. Depending on your goals, a remodel can include structural changes, layout updates, and custom finishes that match the rest of your home’s style. We often start by reconfiguring walls to create open floor plans or adding framed rooms for bedrooms, offices, or entertainment areas. From there, we handle all aspects of the build, including drywall installation, flooring replacement, trim work, painting, lighting upgrades, and ceiling finishes.
For more comprehensive remodels, we also provide plumbing and electrical services, which allow us to add bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry areas. Waterproofing and insulation improvements are often included as well, ensuring your basement remains dry, comfortable, and energy efficient. At Millhawlk, we pride ourselves on offering end-to-end basement remodeling in Framingham and MetroWest, managing every stage from design and permitting to construction and final finishes.
Yes! Adding a bathroom or kitchenette is one of the most popular upgrades homeowners choose during a basement remodel, and our team has extensive experience designing and installing them. Adding a bathroom requires careful planning to ensure proper plumbing, ventilation, and waterproofing. Depending on your basement’s current setup, we may connect to existing plumbing lines or install a pump system to move wastewater up to the main drain line. Once that’s established, we can build anything from a half-bath for convenience to a full spa-style bathroom complete with shower or soaking tub.
A kitchenette is another excellent option that makes your basement more functional and self-contained. For in-law suites, ADUs, or rental units, a kitchenette with cabinets, a sink, countertop space, and appliances allows the basement to operate as an independent living space. Even for lifestyle basements, adding a small wet bar or snack station enhances convenience for entertaining. By working with Millhawlk, you’ll get a team that understands both the technical requirements and design considerations, ensuring your new bathroom or kitchenette is both code-compliant and beautifully integrated into your basement.
One of the greatest advantages of remodeling your basement is the flexibility to design a space that truly fits your lifestyle. At Millhawlk, we offer a wide range of design options, from practical layouts to luxury upgrades. Many homeowners choose to create additional bedrooms, playrooms, or family rooms, while others prefer specialized spaces like home gyms, wine cellars, or home theaters. For those who work from home, a quiet office in the basement provides a productive retreat, while entertainment enthusiasts often opt for custom bars, game rooms, or media centers.
In addition to layout choices, we guide you through selections for flooring, lighting, wall finishes, and trim. Flooring options range from waterproof vinyl plank to elegant tile or engineered wood. Lighting can be designed for both function and mood, from recessed LED fixtures to accent lighting for display areas. We also offer custom trim, built-in shelving, and paint finishes to match your home’s style. For clients who want multi-purpose spaces, we can design basements with flexible zones that serve more than one function. For example, a home office that doubles as a guest bedroom. Whatever your vision, our design team ensures your basement is tailored to your needs and built to the highest standards.
Waterproofing is one of the most important considerations in basement construction. Even small leaks or humidity issues can compromise drywall, flooring, and finishes. At Millhawlk, we evaluate your basement for potential water problems before beginning construction. This may involve sealing foundation walls, installing vapor barriers, upgrading drainage systems, or adding sump pumps.
We also use moisture-resistant materials where appropriate, such as Durock in bathrooms, waterproof flooring options, and specialized insulation. By addressing water concerns early, we ensure your finished basement remains dry, healthy, and durable for years to come. Proper waterproofing not only protects your investment but also prevents mold growth and structural issues.
Basement flooring needs to be durable and moisture-resistant. Popular options include vinyl plank flooring, engineered wood, ceramic tile, and polished concrete. Vinyl plank is one of the most common choices because it’s waterproof, attractive, and available in many styles. Engineered wood offers a natural look while resisting moisture better than solid hardwood. Tile is durable and works well in basement bathrooms or kitchens, while concrete can be sealed or stained for a sleek, modern finish.
At Millhawlk, we help you choose a flooring option that fits your style, budget, and how you plan to use the space. For example, a basement gym might benefit from rubberized flooring, while a wine cellar could look stunning with stone or tile. Because flooring plays such a large role in both function and design, we make sure every choice complements the rest of your remodel.
Legally renting out your basement is not just about finding a tenant; it’s about ensuring the space is a safe, legal, and compliant living unit. Renting it out prematurely can lead to significant fines, liability issues, and forced evictions.
You are legally allowed to rent out your basement only after it has passed all required inspections and received a Certificate of Occupancy (or its local equivalent) from your city’s Building Department. This certificate is your official proof that the unit meets all critical safety and zoning standards.
Key requirements for a legal basement apartment typically include:
The regulations can be complex and vary by neighborhood. Our team is well-versed in the specific building codes and zoning bylaws in Massachusetts. We can help you navigate the entire process, from initial design and securing permits to performing the renovations that bring your basement up to legal rental standards.
Protect your investment and your future tenants. Contact Millhawlk Design & Construction for a consultation to ensure your basement suite is safe, legal, and ready for rental.
Yes, converting your basement into a legal ADU is an excellent way to generate rental income or provide additional living space for family. However, the process needs to precisely follow a specific set of state and, more importantly, city/town regulations.
While codes vary, a successful basement ADU conversion in our area must meet several key requirements:
Navigate the ADU Process with a Local Construction Experts
Transforming your basement into a profitable and legal ADU is a complex but highly rewarding project. Our team is deeply familiar with the specific ADU ordinances in towns all over Massachusetts. We manage the entire process for you, from initial zoning analysis and design to securing permits and performing the construction to code.
Take the first step toward adding valuable square footage to your home. Contact Millhawlk Design & Construction for a free ADU feasibility assessment of your basement!
This is one of the most important safety questions for any basement renovation. The answer depends entirely on how the space is classified and used, according to the International Residential Code (IRC) and local Massachusetts city/town amendments.
A simple window isn’t enough. To be considered a legal egress, the window well and window itself must meet strict specifications for:
Improper egress window installation is a common reason a basement renovation fails inspection. Our team understands the precise requirements for Massachusetts towns and ensures your egress window is not only code-compliant but also professionally installed to keep your family safe and your investment secure.
Ensure your basement renovation is safe and legal. Contact us today for a free consultation on your egress window needs.
A basement is considered a “finished basement” when you have officially turned your unused, concrete-floored storage area into a comfortable, functional living space that is an integral part of your home. It’s not just about putting up walls; it’s about creating a room that is insulated, climate-controlled, and built to the same quality and safety standards as the main floors.
A truly finished basement includes a complete build-out with professional-grade materials and all the necessary trades, such as:
More Than a Renovation. It’s an Expansion of Your Home.
Finishing your basement isn’t just a project; it’s an investment that adds significant square footage and functionality to your property. Whether you dream of a home theater, a guest suite, a home gym, or a dedicated playroom, a professionally finished basement makes it possible.
Unlock the potential of your basement. Contact Millhawlk Design & Construction for a free consultation to explore how we can transform your basment into your favorite new living space.
Yes, a professionally finished basement is one of the smartest investments you can make in your home, consistently adding significant financial and functional value.
Here’s how a finished basement boosts your home’s worth:
It’s important to note that the quality of the finish is critical. A DIY project with visible flaws or a layout that doesn’t meet code can actually deter buyers. Our professional finish ensures every detail, from the framing and electrical to the drywall and flooring is completed to the highest standards, guaranteeing your investment pays off.
Ready to add valuable square footage and increase your home’s market value? Contact us for a free, no-obligation estimate on your basement finishing project.
Your basement has the potential to become one of the most valuable and enjoyable parts of your home. Whether you want a finished basement, a modern remodel, or a custom lifestyle space, Millhawlk Design & Construction is here to make it happen. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start planning your basement project in Framingham or MetroWest, MA. Call or text us today at (774) 300-2972 to get started!
