My sewing room has been in the basement for over 20 years. I love it..we also have a TV room with my office area there and there is a powder room. The other space is taken up with pantry space and laundry room. We have heat for winter and we use a dehumidifier for the Chicago humidity in summer. I really would not have it any other way. I can keep the pins and threads out of the 1st floor. I have stucco walls that are white and use fluorescent lighting..never feel in a dungeon. I use those thick rubber interlocking tiles on the floor by the ironing board and by the cutting table..eases my feet and legs as the floor is painted concrete which is great for maintenance. I need to add that we are "high" and have never a water issue in this area.