HOME BOX OFFICE “A MEDIA ROOM IS A SPACE TO SWITCH OFF AND RELAX.”
From the latest high-tech televisions and screening upgrades to the best seating and soft furnishings, we show you how to set up the perfect media room.
Amedia room is an excellent inclusion for any home. With a home theatre system or television, comfortable seating, window coverings and cosy soft furnishings, it’s a space to switch off and relax, saving the lounge or living areas for socialising and family time without the noise or distraction of a screen.
LET THERE BE LIGHT
When it comes to designing your media room, of course the screen is important, but it’s not the only key consideration. Soft, subtle lighting will help create a theatre atmosphere and set the scene. Dimmable ceiling lights are an ideal choice as they give you the flexibility for creating the right ambience.
Wall sconces are also a popular choice for media rooms, creating an ambient glow and reflecting the golden age of theatre décor. Table or floor lamps are also handy if you need a close and convenient source of light: for example, when you need to locate the remote.
For those wanting to bring some star power into the home, fibre optic lighting is an option for creating a starry ceiling. These are created by threading fibre optic filaments through a dark-coloured ceiling.
TAKE YOUR SEAT
Seating is also a key consideration when you are designing your media room. “In the era of Netflix, Stan and Apple TV, our streaming culture means enjoying your favourite movie or TV series has never been easier,” says David Hardwick, Head of Product at King Living.
“What is not so simple is choosing the right seating to ensure you are viewing in luxurious comfort. With so many options available, selecting home theatre seating can be a daunting task.” Hardwick says comfort is of utmost importance when it comes to selecting seating. “When creating that personalised luxury feel at home, comfort truly is key, and nothing screams comfort or home theatre quite like a recliner sofa.”
When it comes to style, Hardwick recommends a minimal design approach. “Choose a sofa with clean, minimalist lines like the King Cloud III or Nimbus, which both feature a sleek low back and space-saving reclining back mechanism which allows you to place your recliner close to a wall.”
No media room is complete without plenty of plush soft furnishings including throw blankets, pillows and window coverings. Layer up with different textures to add style and comfort. A coffee table, ottoman or nesting tables are useful for holding snacks, remote controls and gaming consoles. Curtains will prevent glare on the screen, while block-out blinds can offer noise control and privacy as well as protection from the sun and heat.
“When styling a media room, you are wanting to achieve a true cinema experience and one that exudes comfort,” says Hannah Irvine from Warwick Fabrics. “I would suggest full block-out to keep light coming in from outside, double fullness in the drape and a lovely heavy texture to help mitigate any in-room echo when you are considering your window treatments. Drapery velvets, wools and our recently release Acoustic fabric would all be a fabulous option for any in-home media room.”
TV GOES HIGH-TECH
Television technology has jumped in leaps and bounds in recent years. Gone are the days when a huge box with a small screen showing three channels would take up half the lounge room. Now flat, jumbo-sized screens equipped with smart technology disappear into the décor on walls and in cabinets.
Many of the new TVs now feature advanced processors and AI capabilities to improve performance. Other improvements include TVs with built-in microphones so you can use your voice to change the channel: say goodbye to the remote.
VISIT MiNDFOOD.COM
So, you’ve got four walls, a ceiling, a floor, some windows and little else? Here are our five best beginner tips on turning your empty shell into a comfortable, cosy living room. mindfood.com/living-room-tips