A beautifully executed basement remodeling project can give you the perfect space for entertaining, a den for family activities, a game room, and even a top line home theater.
Basements should be more heavily lit than above-grade rooms. Maximize both natural (outdoor daylight) and artificial lighting. An open floor plan, large windows, and a French door leading to the basement instead of the solid door which is most likely installed there now will help maximize the lighting. Also think in terms of light colors, and mirrored walls or ceilings.
Stick with light colors for the walls. Using light paint colors will very effectively brighten the gloomiest basements!