A home cinema room is on the wishlist of many households. Imagine being able to access the latest blockbusters in a personalised setting that has all the perks of a commercial cinema but without the cost of tickets and popcorn or the distractions created by other viewers.
Many people who decide to invest in a home cinema choose a basement or garage for their conversion, as these spaces are naturally dark and are often a suitable shape. But if you don’t have a basement or garage, a loft conversion can work just as well. With the right design and setup, they can be an effective option for your big nights in. Here are some top things to consider.
The basics
Before you rush off to choose AV equipment, you’ll first need to consider two things: your Wi-Fi connection and the natural light in the room. A good Wi-Fi connection is essential for the authentic cinema experience. After all, dealing with skips and pauses while your movie loads isn’t ideal. With that in mind, the first job is to ensure you have the bandwidth to handle the devices and software you require.
Loft conversions typically have windows, so the next task is to invest in effective blackout blinds and/or curtains to block as much natural light as possible. This will ensure you get the most from your visual equipment, and will eliminate the distractions caused by reflections or visible natural light.
Colour and light
Preparing your loft should also include painting the walls with dark blue, grey, brown or green to create calm and ensure the focus is entirely on the screen. You can also install lighting to complement your needs. This may take the form of LED strips or spotlights that can be dimmed. Consider using smart lights that can be turned off with the tap of an app or a voice command.
Acoustic treatments
When it comes to immersing yourself in the on-screen action, the configuration and calibration of your speakers is as important as the picture. However, when you have a powerful system sound can be reflected off surfaces creating echoes or distortion – and this will detract from your experience. It’s therefore worth considering acoustic treatments and furnishing choices that will minimise this.
Carpets are preferable to hard flooring, for example, and suitably placed acoustic panels will help to prevent sound bouncing off walls. If your loft conversion is relatively small, you’ll also benefit from a bass trap. Plenty of soft furnishings will help to absorb sound too, so think carefully about the seating you choose, as well as additional furniture like coffee tables and cabinets.
Software
For the installation of your projector and sound system, it’s advisable to engage a professional home cinema specialist in Kent. They will be able to recommend the best equipment for your needs and ensure an optimal setup. For the ultimate experience, you’ll also need quality software that delivers a pin-sharp recreation of your favourite movies and TV shows. Brands such as Zappiti and Zidoo offer this, but if your budget allows, Kaleidescape is a premium option that enables you to download your chosen film or TV series in uncompressed 4K with HDR, providing a state-of-the-art audio-visual experience.
