Home Theater Checklist: 5 Things You May Forget

By Abigail Sawyer

 Move over, man cave! The home theater is the hottest trend in home design. And why not? It’s everyone’s favorite room. Imagine hosting family movie night, birthday slumber parties and the big game in your own private theater. Not only are you saving money on expensive movie tickets, but you’re creating new memories with special family time.

You’ve invested in the best audio-visual equipment, the room is soundproofed, and comfortable reclining theater chairs are installed. But before you get on with the show, check out these five design tips to enhance your home movie experience.

1. Black-Out Shades and Blinds

Any home theater should be able to achieve complete darkness. No matter which room you convert into your theater, you should invest in quality blackout shades or blinds. Floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall shades will eliminate even the slightest sliver of light from spoiling the effect—plus, they’ll cushion outside sound, so you can hone in on your movie experience. Install curtains on a traverse rod or hide the hardware behind molding or trim. Consider opting for remote control-enabled shades for easy opening and closing. 

1. Dark Colors

Save the bright and pale colors for other rooms in the house. To help with the darkness, chose medium or dark rich colors. It doesn’t have to be black; shades of burgundy, green, grey, brown or navy will help with the illusion of the real theater. Say no to stark white for the ceiling. Paint it the same or coordinating color as the walls.

1. Carpet Tiles

The floor needs to be dark and quiet, too. Wall-to-wall carpeting is good, but carpet tiles are better for an active family. They allow you to create a unique pattern when installing and they’re cost effective. If a juice box gets spilled, replace a stained tile with a new one. Easy peasy!

1. Snack Bar

Speaking of juice boxes, snacks and movies go hand in hand. If a full wet bar isn’t in the budget or the space doesn’t allow for it, at least reserve an area for a candy counter or snack prep. Install a few cabinets for storage and have a minifridge on hand to keep drinks cold. Don’t forget the most important accessory — the popcorn machine! Countertop models are readily available, and the smell of fresh popcorn gets everyone in the movie-watching spirit. 

1. Sconce Lighting

Even a room in total darkness needs some light. For a true movie theater feel, create wall wash with sconces (direct the light up and toward the floor). Install LED rope lights at the ceiling (hide it behind a cove or molding trim) for mood lighting. Or, create a starlight effect on the ceiling with fiber optic lights. Use dimmer switches to gradually turn down the light as the movie starts — just like at the theater!

Add these few special touches and your home theater will be ready for lights, camera and action. That’s a wrap!

Abigail Sawyer is a Senior Social Media Specialist for Blinds.com. She's a home improvement junkie who is currently restoring a 1972 cottage with the help of her husband and (and her goldendoodle, Biscuit). Walking in the footsteps of Martha Stewart, she’s happiest when she’s crafting or whipping up a new recipe; although nothing beats curling up with a good book and some Girl Scout Cookies. Abigail writes on all things home décor, including how to set up the perfect at-home theater. You can find a wide selection of light-blocking window blinds on the Blinds.com website.