HOW TO INSTALL A HOME THEATER
Gone are the days of seeing a movie just to feel the leather seats, smell the popcorn, and be with others in the movie theater. Indoor movie theaters are high-risk locations during the ongoing pandemic, so while we wait for mass vaccinations and fewer lockdowns, making your own home theater can be a clever alternative. Here are some ways to get that movie theater feeling without needing the large open space or breaking the bank.
Choose your equipment
If you love the big screen and have enough space, consider investing in a projector and screen. They’re generally easy to install, and using a shelf for the projector can save you from more complicated (and expensive) mounts and ceiling rigs. These are some of the popular projectors to use that even works well on light-colored walls, so consider painting your viewing wall white if you choose to forego the more complicated process of buying and installing a screen. The wall doesn’t always have to be bare, either—just hang pictures or artwork that can be easily removed for movie night.
Of course, a regular TV can also work well—but for enhanced viewing opting into television that supports both 4K and HDR, which can offer a wide range of colors and clarity.
Home Theater Lighting
Ambient lighting can make or break a theater-like experience, so whatever screen you choose, make sure to use blackout curtains to cover any windows to keep outside light from pouring in. Another option is installing automated blinds that can replicate a movie theater-like experience.
Here are some more resources to create ambient lighting for your home theater
Home Theater Sound
When it comes to sound, a regular television soundbar with a simple subwoofer can pack enough punch for most people. Soundbars and subwoofers generally offer 600 watts of power and Bluetooth capabilities, but if you have the funds you can splurge for surround sound—just make sure to consider proper planning to even out the sound levels.
Arrange your seating
Once you have your viewing equipment, the next most important step is to arrange your seating. You can permanently move furniture to mimic a theater with rows of couches or recliners (only an option if you have a large space you can dedicate to movies, obviously), or make a flexible space where seating can be moved into theater-style and then moved back into a regular living room. You can also find a home theater sectional couch to focus on your TV or projector wall. Space Joy has great options for high-end transformations that also keep the room functional.
Accessorize with movie paraphernalia
Decorate your walls with movie posters and even old props to emulate movie theater hallways. You can even buy movie night kits, complete with popcorn tubs, movie tickets, and candy.
Now that the heavy lifting is done, enjoy the show.
