| A home theater can provide years of sports and | | | | player or Blu-ray? How many speakers? Can you |
| movie entertainment for you, your family and friends. | | | | tackle the wiring, connections and calibrations yourself? |
| Before you embark on a project like this, consider the | | | | Consult a home theater design professional for |
| following: | | | | equipment advice, and consider letting your |
| - Budget: Can you afford do-it-yourself, make it totally | | | | professional do the installation. |
| custom, or something in between? Factor in any | | | | - Seating: Theater-style seating isn't a must. You |
| construction material and labor costs, as well as | | | | might want to consider comfortable sofas, chairs or |
| equipment and furnishings. | | | | recliners. Just ensure that each seat in the room has a |
| - Timeline: Create a realistic timeframe for completing | | | | good view of the screen. |
| your project. If you decide to work with | | | | - Light control: Devices to dim lights and blinds or |
| a professional, he or she will do this for you. | | | | drapes to block daylight from windows can be |
| - Location: Do you want to create it in an extra | | | | integrated into your design. |
| bedroom or den area, or a larger room, such as a | | | | Regardless of the size of your home theater project, |
| basement? Your budget will be a big factor in this | | | | it's advisable to work with a professional on all or part |
| decision. | | | | of your project. Working with a home theater |
| - Equipment: Flat screen television or rear-projection? | | | | professional will ensure that your room design meets |
| What size screen will your room require? Basic DVD | | | | your desires, your timeline and your budget. |