I’m currently framing out a small protion of my basement for to be used as an entertainment area (Appr.  1/3 of the total area)

Of the approximately 160 feet of lineal concrete wall in the basement only 40 feet will be framed out, the remainder of the walls in the improved area will just be plaster on concrete.

Even though the basement is heated, I’m also going to add a ventless fireplace as an extra source of heat.

My question is:  Should I insulate and/or place a vapor barrier on the studded out portion of the walls.

Since it is such a small percentage of the overall wall area I don’t believe the insulation will provide any extra warmth and may only be a hindrance later if I decide to add wiring in the walls for telephone jacks, computer terminals, surround sound, etc.

I also did not know if placing plastic on the studs prior to the sheetrock installation would be beneficial or not.

I currently do not have any water problems in my basement although I do run a dehumidifier 24-7 during the summer.

Thanks for any help.

RandyG