Home Theater Interior Design Guidance
May 5, 2010Fields: Furniture, Interior Design
Lights, Camera, Decorate! So you’ve made the decision to create a home theatre. You’ve talked to the technical experts and have selected the equipment you’ll need. You’ve even picked out the first DVD you’ll watch. Now it’s time to design your space to provide the best environment for viewing. A great home theatre is more than just a projector and screen – it should be an experience. To set the stage for a true cinematic experience you need to consider all aspects of the room.
Window Coverings
You’ll see a dramatic difference in picture quality when incoming light is eliminated from a room. But those old mini-blinds are not going to do much for blocking outside light, and a basement without a door to the stairwell will allow light from the hall or upstairs rooms to creep in. Movies were meant to be watched in the dark so use blackout drapes on windows and entranceways to block all incoming light.
Blackout drapes are the same type of window coverings found in fine hotels, with a special fabric lining that blocks out almost all outside light at any hour of the day. Blackout drapes look like any other drape from inside the room, giving you the option of using almost any fabric you want. For a traditional, old fashioned Hollywood look, consider velvet drapes with heavy gold fringe and braided tie backs. Drapes provide many other benefits for home theatres. They can prevent sound from bouncing off hard surfaces, provide some sound proofing for the room adjacent to the theatre, and create the atmosphere of a true cinema. Drapes can also be used to hide equipment and wiring or block off the back of the room to allow guests to refresh beverages and snacks at the bar without disrupting the show. Consider adding a remote-controlled drapery track to create an authentic theatre atmosphere. This is an excellent option for hard to reach windows.
Wall Treatments
Wall treatments can greatly affect your home theatre experience. Using dark, deep colors like chocolate brown or burgundy will prevent the wall color from being a distraction during show time. Matte finish paint will prevent walls from reflecting light from the screen. If you don’t want the walls painted a dark color you can add drapes behind the screen and up the sides of the theatre room.
Seating
Seating in a home theatre should ideally be placed facing the screen. Having a few rows of seats works well in a long, narrow set up, especially if the back rows are elevated to ensure everyone has a good view. Drinks and snacks are usually on hand during a screening so choose easy care fabrics such as faux suede. Adding washable slipcovers to your furniture will give you peace of mind from the “butterfingers” – also known as popcorn eaters and drink spillers! Slipcovers are also a great way to make existing furniture look like a matched set. Kids love floor seating so have some oversized pillows handy. Add a few throws for color and comfort and you’re ready to go.
Finishing Touches
Old movie posters are a great way to finish your home theatre. Choose a film genre like horror or western, or select a few posters from your favorite era. When framing posters, be sure to ask for non-glare glass to avoid reflections from the screen. Searching the Internet will provide many movie poster suppliers, as well as other fun items such as popcorn machines and buckets.
Designing your home theatre will result in a comfortable atmosphere and give you and your guests a true cinematic experience. Now you can sit back, relax and enjoy the show!
