A basement living space is the perfect area for an in-home theater. Basements are ideal locations for a theater set-up complete with comfy chairs, sofas, and surround sound. Additionally, the downstairs location and concrete walls and floors reduces sound from carrying upstairs, and limited light makes for the perfect basement home theater experience.
If you’re thinking about converting your downstairs living space to a basement home theater, here are a few things to consider.
T.V. Screen
Obviously, this is the most important component of any basement home theater. Before purchasing a television or renovating the space, be sure to measure available wall space for your T.V. screen. The bigger the screen, the more space you’ll need to ensure an adequate viewing experience (you don’t want to watch a 100 inch screen from only two feet away). Measure your space to discern what type of furniture will fit, where your television will go, and what size television works best for your space.
Lighting
Movies are best enjoyed in the dark, so installing dimmer lights is a good idea for your basement home theater. Dimmer lights enable viewers to have some light at lower levels. Another alternative are smart light bulbs, which can be controlled (dimmed, turned on and off) through your smartphone.
Wiring
With electronics comes wiring. Your basement may already be outfitted with outlets and wiring necessary for a television and surround sound. If not, consider consulting an electrician to determine the state of the wiring in your basement.
WiFi
With smart TVs, helpful home apps, and streaming services, it’s even more important to make sure your basement is outfitted with strong WiFi. Test your signal to see if it is strong enough for the basement. If not, you can purchase an additional router or signal booster.
Furniture
Comfort during a movie is essential. After taking measurements, shops for sofas or recliners that will provide the most comfort and are also easy to clean and maintain. Consider adding T.V. trays, lamps, and a cozy rug to absorb sound.
