The Big Screen, Pig Skin, Popcorn, and Pumpkin Spice (Minus The Pumpkin Spice)

The Big Screen, Pig Skin, Popcorn, and Pumpkin Spice ( Minus The Pumpkin Spice)

    Well well well, while fall has not officially arrived per the calendar, it might as well be here,

football is back, Go Pack. Your favorite fall series are due back soon, looking forward to SVU and The

Chicago’s, and I think I heard an Instagram Influencer order a pumpkin on Reels but as everyone knows

tacos and margaritas beat a pumpkin spice latte and croissant everyday of the week. In regard to

popcorn, its kettle corn versus everybody. Now that we have officially established the metrics of

“greatness” let’s dive into a few tips and tricks to make the most of your home theater experience while

you indulge in football, your favorite television series, and favorite snacks.

    Everyone has different hot buttons and priorities when it comes to their favorite room of the

home and some who are not movie buffs and sports fanatics may say that you could have a full

experience watching it in your living and while I do not disagree, lets see what the experts say about

taking the experience up a few notches!

    First and foremost, the key to finding the right spot would be to make a decision for a dedicated

space. This space should be away from the noisiest areas of the house, with the exception of the cheers

when the Wolfpack Scores, and also not disparaging natural light but you will want to ensure that the

room does not allow an abundance of natural light in. Should your room have windows and natural light

or ambient light is unavoidable you are not out of luck, there are many solutions such as blinds and

curtains, many of which can block out the majority of light which could enter and disrupt the viewing

experience. The space of the room is also a matter to consider as you will definitely want family or

friends to join but also the depth of the room as to ensure the screen is the proper size.

    While natural light can disrupt your viewing experience and cause glare, accent lighting is key,

this gives you the ability to dim the lights as well as still provide visibility as you need to get up, walk

around, grab a snack etc. The placement of these lights are key. When creating a “perfect” set up dark

colors on the ceilings as well can add to the viewing experience as it serves as a light control.

    The trains, traffic, kids screaming, sirens, etc, that is external noise, just like an offensive line in

football you want your “theater” to block out external noise. The first priority is to choose a room which

is not heavily trafficked in the home, secondly if the budget allows it consider putting in zero-sound

drywall which will aid in sound in sound proofing. This would be the Lamborghini version of sound

proofing. There are alternative options such as drapes and sound panels, consider a solid door as

opposed to a hollow door, also for the ceiling you could add acoustic tiles.

    It is hard to watch a show, game, or movie without a screen, you will want a big screen but you

want to ensure that the screen fits the room, nothing worse than sitting close to the screen and getting

a crick in your neck, while those younger than 30 may not think this is a big deal, trust me it is. There are

many great options with OLED, LED, and LCD tvs which can optimize your viewing experience.

    We tackle the next few pretty quickly, have a plan for the wiring, not only for safety but also for

aesthetics. There are many options to make this possible. You will also want a quality sound system

which includes speaks and subwoofers, ensure that you place equal distance around the speakers and

have a central, right and left which will give you the full surround sound experience. Next up seating

options and snacks. Find the chairs, couches, seats which can ensure your layout is optimized for a good

view of the screen. Will you serve popcorn, wings, pizza, candy, drinks or will it depend on the occasion? Put your imagination to work and add some cinematic style for you and your guests!

    While I am sure there are many points which I could have elaborated or points I might have

missed this is a great starting point for ensuring a great home theater experience.

Andrew

andrew@peterkima.com