Basement renovation in Bietigheim: Five new rehearsal rooms for bands!
Bietigheim-Bissingen is planning to convert an old cinema into rehearsal rooms. Completion in February 2024, challenges included.

Basement renovation in Bietigheim: Five new rehearsal rooms for bands!
An exciting renovation project is currently being implemented in the basement of a former cinema in Bietigheim-Bissingen. Five studios will be created here for group and individual rehearsals, one of which will offer enough space for up to six bands. Completion of the project is targeted for February 2024 Bietigheim newspaper reported.
Fire protection for the already completed parts of the building has been approved, although acceptance by the building authority is still pending. The renovation has so far progressed without any major complaints and on schedule. However, there are also challenges: new tasks arise behind every door, and additional costs due to the necessary ventilation are to be expected. A total of 70 tons of material was removed from the old building without any unpleasant surprises. The beams are in good condition, free of mold or fungi. The conversion is not designed as a “party bunker”, which indicates well-thought-out planning.
Basement as living space
The steady trend to expand basement rooms is clearly evident in various projects, not just in Bietigheim-Bissingen. Basement conversions create additional living space, which is particularly valuable in densely populated areas. The costs for basement conversions vary greatly and depend, among other things, on the condition of the basement and its future use. On average, the costs for expansion range between 1,500 and 3,000 euros per square meter, although draining a damp basement can trigger additional fees. These can start at at least 500 euros per square meter, like renovationcosts.net indicates.
In order to successfully implement the project, a few points should be checked before expansion. The humidity should be a maximum of 60% and the clear room height must be at least 2.40 meters to meet the requirements. The window area should also make up at least 12.5% of the room's floor space, with light wells or skylights being helpful alternatives. A permit may be necessary for basements used commercially, while private uses often do not require a permit, adds the Homeowners Association.
Planning and implementation
For successful planning of the basement extension, not only structural but also usage-specific considerations are important. A well-thought-out floor plan should create bright and open rooms, while generous electrical installations and ventilation systems ensure healthy indoor air. Possible uses for the converted basement are diverse and range from children's rooms to libraries to fitness areas or home cinemas.
Anyone thinking about converting a basement should also be aware of the financial support options available. Funding for energy-efficient renovations and age-appropriate conversions could offer additional incentives. With all of these considerations and the current development in Bietigheim-Bissingen, it becomes clear that the conversion not only represents a structural challenge, but also a valuable opportunity to create additional living space.