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Seattle DJ Gets Storage-Filled Basement Studio With Custom Closet

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This “man-cave” is swoonworthy.

Published: January 11, 2023 Design by Brave Element Photography by Therron Francis

Jason Justice has spent more than 15 years as a well-known DJ in the Seattle area. Co-host of City Soul on KBCS 91.3FM, he credits techno, hiphop, disco, and jazz as his musical influences. So, when it came to renovating his basement, Justice turned to Brave Element to build out a laundry area, DJ station, and pantry, all with sleek, clutter-free cabinetry, and of course, room for his record collection. 

Initially, the basement was no-frills with a washer and dryer but he hoped for something that would match the black, white, and wood palette of the rest of his home. Brave Element designer Beck Pierce stepped in with unique storage solutions. 

“Like so many of our clients, he found us on Instagram,” says Brave Element Founder Wesley Sisk. “He was trying to balance this need for storage yet a spot for all of his records.” The solution? Built-in record shelving inspired by an IKEA design and custom-built from Semihandmade panels. 

Semihandmade Tahoe fronts create concealed storage, acting as a pantry, linen closet, and overflow space. “The clients wanted all of their storage in that one room,” Sisk says. 

For the DJ booth, Semihandmade Supermatte Black Slab fronts contrast a custom white oak floating shelf. The laundry set-up, which is now intentionally placed within the design, is flanked by Tahoe fronts. 

“They wanted access to the water shut-off for the washer and dryer, so under the counter we cut out a secret door with a Tahoe panel. To the naked eye, you wouldn’t even notice it,” Sisk adds. Another tricky component was the inability to move the existing plumbing. 

When it came to the design and installation process, “they knew exactly what they wanted,” Sisk says. “They did the research ahead of time” so it was just about making their vision come to life. 

While Tahoe and Supermatte Black were ultimately chosen, the Brave Element team placed their orders during the time of a Tahoe shortage, when another similar front, Sequoia, was offered. In lieu of moving ahead, they waited a few months longer because the clients loved Tahoe that much. In the end, the project turned out just as expected, perfect for storage and stylish to boot. 

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