Name: Matrix Basements
Price range: $$
Rating: 5

Basements are often overlooked spaces, but with the right planning and expertise, they can become the most beautiful, functional rooms in your home. In this video, we take you behind the scenes of a large basement renovation in Ann Arbor, Michigan, showing you the meticulous work, specialized skills, and careful project management that go into creating a truly exceptional finished space.

Below, we break down the highlights from the project and share what makes a best-in-class basement build possible.

Necessary Inspections for Basement Remodeling

Before any finishing work can begin, thorough preparation sets the stage for success.

The team started by completing all rough inspections—plumbing, electrical, and structural—to ensure everything met code. In the bathroom, for example, the floor was opened up so inspectors could verify the underfloor plumbing before closing it back up and moving to flooring installation.

Similarly, in the bar area, the floor had to be opened again to run proper electrical wiring and plumbing lines for the appliances and ice maker. This attention to detail upfront prevents headaches later and ensures every element performs flawlessly once complete.

Specialized Skills in the Remodeling Team Make All the Difference

One of the defining features of Matrix is a commitment to using specialized crews for each phase of construction. As field manager Rico Hill explained, “Our plumbers aren’t electricians. Our electricians aren’t painters.” Each trade focuses exclusively on their craft every day.

This specialization pays off, especially in critical areas like:

Low-voltage cabinet lighting: Professionally installed to create inviting ambience.
Custom cabinetry and stone backsplashes: Crafted and fitted precisely.
Drywall finishing: A true art form requiring practiced hands to get smooth walls ready for paint.

Rico summed it up perfectly: “They’ve mastered the art of what they do.”

BuilderTrend: The Backbone of Communication

With so many moving parts, clear communication with homeowners and subcontractors is essential. That’s where BuilderTrend, a powerful project management platform, becomes invaluable.

Each day, Rico starts by reviewing the schedule, confirming which trades are on-site, and sending updates to homeowners.

When delays happen—as they inevitably do in construction—Matrix's use of BuilderTrend helps keep everyone informed:

Daily logs: Document progress and flag issues.
Messages: Let homeowners ask questions or share concerns anytime.
Schedules: Outline when each trade will be working, often planned months in advance.

This transparency ensures homeowners never feel left in the dark and keeps projects on track.

Innovative Basement Wall Materials for Lasting Results

Basements are unique environments prone to moisture, so using the right materials is critical.

Matrix uses a proprietary wall system, the Matrix Forever Wall, featuring:

Purple moisture-resistant board: 10 times more resistant to moisture than traditional green board
Spray foam insulation: To keep temperatures stable and prevent mold.
Metal studs: For durability and longevity.

Combined, this system delivers walls built to last a lifetime—especially important in below-grade spaces.

Finished Basement Design That Works for Your Lifestyle

Beyond construction excellence, great basements are designed with your family’s needs in mind.

This project included:

A lounge area with English windows overlooking the yard.
A game room with arcade space for kids.
A large bar and seating area with room for up to 12 guests.
An art room and dedicated storage areas.
A cozy fireplace and entertainment wall.

Every detail was thoughtfully planned, from granite countertops to custom cabinetry, to create a welcoming space for relaxation and entertaining.

Thinking Ahead to the Punch List

While many homeowners focus on the big milestones, the punch list phase is when all the finishing touches come together. Rico and his team start planning for this phase early—ensuring everything from bath hardware to door handles is on-site, so there are no surprises in the final days.

Meticulous preparation means the final result isn’t just beautiful—it’s move-in ready, down to the smallest details.

Your Basement, Reimagined

Building the best basement setup requires more than skilled labor—it demands communication, planning, and a passion for craftsmanship at every stage.

At Matrix, this dedication is what sets each project apart. As the video shows, whether you’re installing moisture-resistant walls, crafting a custom bar, or coordinating dozens of subcontractors, it’s all about doing things the right way—from the first inspection to the final walkthrough.