Getting Started With Home Theater Design

Home theaters used to be considered a luxury, something you'd only have if you could afford a dedicated room and state-of-the-art equipment. But that's no longer the case. Today, many people consider home theaters a staple, just like the kitchen and living room. And with entertainment technology getting more and more accessible, anyone can get professional-quality sound and video for just a small investment.

One thing few people realize, however, is the importance of good design in a home theater. It's not just the large widescreen TV or the sound system that makes up your viewing experience. From the shape of your room to your choice of flooring and furniture, every detail can greatly affect the room. That's why it helps to take your time, do some planning, and make sure your home theater works the way you want it to.

For starters, you have to choose your flooring carefully. Home theater floors need to be sound-absorbent and provide good insulation; otherwise the sound will bounce around the room and create distracting echoes. Most experts recommend wall-to-wall carpeting, although rugs work just as well if you don't want heavy maintenance or don't want to cover up your existing floor. Other common options are cork, vinyl, and leather tiles.

The same principle applies to your walls, although they don't have to be as thickly insulated as flooring. If you're using cork or leather tiles, try using them on your walls as well-they're light enough to go vertically and create a nice, consistent look. Otherwise, you can boost insulation by adding fabric wall art or wooden furniture. Cover up windows with thick, dark curtains to block out the light and maximize video quality.

Finally, don't forget your furniture. Home theaters need comfortable seating; besides your décor, it's what really sets it apart from commercial cinemas. You can find specialized home theater seats complete with foot rests and drink holders, as well as row seats which allow you to accommodate more people. Place them at a reasonable distance from the screen-usually, the bigger the screen, the farther back the chairs have to be.