You’ll also want to identify a location for the receiver and A/V equipment, which can be placed in a hidden cabinet or nearly closet. Generally, you’ll want to consider wiring that allows speaker placement 1) above or below the viewing screen, 2) at either side of the screen, 3) on the sidewalls, 4) and on the back wall. Your design-build contractor and a qualified electrician will assist you with planning your media room, including proper placement of wiring for essential speaker locations, a receiver, A/V equipment, a video projector, and essential lighting. Even if you have to remove sections of drywall to reroute circuits, it’s better to hide the necessary electric infrastructure than to “make do” with visible cables and wires. Media centers require electrical wiring-and lots of it- to provide proper lighting, video, and surround sound. You might also consider utilizing a section of a garage or unused bedroom that is approximately 20 x 13 feet-an ideal configuration for a home theater. Basements typically do not have large windows, multiple doorways, or high ceilings, making them ideal for transforming a room into a dedicated home theater. Lights! Camera! Action! Pass the popcorn, please! Here’s what you need to know… 1] Choose the Right SpaceĬarving out a section of your basement is an ideal way to make good use of an unfinished or underused space. With the right design, your media room can be an inviting gathering place even when the lights are on, and the sound system is off. It takes thoughtful planning to make your media space turn out exactly as you had planned.

So, if a home theater or media room space is on your wishlist, we’ve compiled a list of essential design options to consider. Media rooms or home theaters have steadily gained in popularity, and it’s not surprising after lifestyle improvements have spurred demand for home remodeling projects.

Media room design layout