Whether you are a die-hard cinema buff or have a family of movie watchers, transforming your basement into a home theater is a fantastic use of previously underutilized space. Use the basement renovation ideas below to plan your new home theater.

Top Ideas for a Home Theater

1. Decide Screen Location

A theater needs to have a screen; choosing the wall for either a roll-up projection screen or the TV is crucial because it determines the orientation of the rest of the room. The screen should not receive sunlight from a window or door, should be visible from the rest of the room, and allow for seating an appropriate distance away from the screen. This distance is typically 10 to 15 feet for an average-sized display.

2. Plan Other Spaces

If the theater is a general recreation room as well as cinema space, plan where game areas will be. Maybe you want to set up the elliptical or stationary bike where you can watch movies while exercising. Many basement renovations include a wet bar or mini kitchen to better host movie parties or keep hungry teenagers fed. If space allows, consider installing a half bath.

3. Choose Cinema-Friendly Decor

The flooring, insulation, furniture, and paint color contribute to the overall functionality of the room. Consider carpet or carpet tiles where the movie viewing will be to reduce echoes. Rubber flooring works well for game or exercise areas, and luxury vinyl in the bath help keep clean-up easy.

Install soundproofing when doing the drywall so you can enjoy the space without noise impacting the rest of the house. Dark-colored paint keeps light low and non-reflective. Or, install dimmers to precisely control the lighting. Finally, soft furnishings dampen echoing sounds and offer relaxing, comfy seating. For a cinema-only dedicated room, consider theater-style, raised seats that rock or recline.

4. Optimize Electrical Components

Choose a contractor who is experienced with home theater basement renovations to help plan this aspect. The wiring should be discreet and allow for adding new components, such as speakers or a projector. The wireless capability of modern systems makes wiring straightforward, but planning and placement of electrical systems provide more accessible modification opportunities.

If you are ready to start your basement renovation project and live in the North Canton, OH, area, choose Ohio Kitchen Bath & Basement. This licensed, bonded, and insured contracting company specializes in basement remodeling and creative designs to suit their customers’ needs. Call (330) 224-8428 for a free estimate or visit the website to learn about their services.