Dreaming about a basement home theater? That compact, underutilized space could magically transform into your private cinema. However, planning is a vital step to make sure your dream doesn’t turn into a design nightmare. From choosing the perfect screen size to setting the proper lights, here are tips on how to build the ultimate basement home theater.
Purpose of the Space
Reflect on the purpose of your home theater, and work your design and build around that. How many people are likely to use the space? Do you plan to host big movie nights or intimate film screenings? What kind of equipment will be available?
Choose a Theme
Just like kitchen remodeling, your home theater’s theme is the blueprint of your design planning. It will influence the furniture, colors and equipment you choose. Do you have a particular genre that you love? If so, your home theater can reflect your favorite film style. Make sure to dedicate some time to researching other home theaters for inspiration.
Screen Type and Size
There are various types and sizes of TV screens. LCD, plasma and OLED are some of the popular options. To set up your screen, you’ll need to decide on the size. Do you want the biggest, or do you prefer something that’s more modest? Calculate the screen size based on the distance from the screen to the seats and the viewing angle of your audience.
Lighting
Lighting is an essential aspect of any home theater. Choose lamps that are designed for the cinema and are adjustable. For the best experience, you should be able to dim or raise the light for whatever type of movie you’re watching. Also, ensure that the lights from the windows and hallways are blocked out.
Seating
Seating is the heart of the theater. Recliners are the way to go for ultimate comfort. They are stylish and come in various shapes and sizes. Recliner chairs are also completely adjustable. Built-in theater seating is also an option if you want to have a more creative design. Your seating should also reflect the theme of your theater.
Sound
Nothing can break the mood faster than poor sound quality. A surround sound system is crucial for a great cinematic experience. Choose a 5.1 system that can incorporate channel variations like left, right and center. Consider getting a subwoofer to complement your sound system. It will give your theater a deep, rich sound.
Fire Exit
No matter how aesthetically pleasing and cozy your home theater is, safety is critical. You must plan and install a fire exit for emergencies. The door should be large enough to fit a substantial amount of audience. Also, install the exit door on the opposite side of the viewing end.
Safety and Insurance
It’s always a good idea to have insurance for your basement home theater. Remember to review any building codes or regulations in your county or city. Taking the extra steps to ensure safety will provide you with peace of mind.
Careful planning, budgeting and professional execution can turn your basement into a delightful audio-visual space for you and your family. Whether you need help with bathroom remodeling or a full home remodel in Pelham, AL, trust the experts at Reliable Design-Build-Remodel. Call us today at (205) 988-9194 or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation!
