How to create the ultimate cinema experience at home
While tech is king, the right choice of furnishings - and gadgets to make refreshments - also play an important role in creating a home cinema that'll rival a trip to the movies. Follow these pointers
FURNISHING YOUR SPACE
A comfortable couch will help you to relax and get you in the mood for the evening. Reclining leather chairs will make your lounge feel like a luxe movie theatre; they are timeless and a great addition to any space. If you want to keep it informal and fun, beanbags will do the trick.
Lighting also plays a role – a dimmer switch is a must and, if you'll be watching movies during the day, consider opting for block-out curtains or blinds.
Then set aside an area to keep your refreshments at hand – there’s nothing worse than running out of popcorn halfway through the movie.
Great finds:
Kick back and relax on comfy seating. Trend home-theatre suite, with a centre console, R19,300, and Theatre recliner, R8,900, from La-z-boy.co.za.
Snuggle up and keep warm. Fleece throw, R110, from Woolworths.co.za.
Ensure there’s room for everyone. Floor cushions, R780 each, from Zanaproducts.co.za.
You’ll want to block out the light. Decorland block-out thermo roller blind in charcoal, from R179, available at Game and Decorland.co.za.
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THE ALL-IMPORTANT TECH
A good-quality TV is important, and, with a HD TV, the experience will be even better. Certain smart TVs also allow you to stream the latest movies and series to your lounge, so it really will be a task to leave the house. That said, it's worth noting that streaming devices may not provide you with the high quality of a HD movie.
For a drive-in experience at home, all you need is a projector and a white wall. It’s an old-school alternative to smart TVs that still works. The screen is bigger and, if you would like to go all out, you can install a screen that will drop down at the push of a button.
With great picture quality, you need impeccable sound, and there are a variety of sound systems to give you just what you need. Wireless speakers make it so much easier to set up your sound without needing a professional.
The placement of your speakers will enable you to get a 3D sound experience. With the latest Dolby Atoms System, different sound can flow through the different speakers, making your favourite 3D movies that much more enjoyable. Never underestimate the power of a subwoofer, especially at a tense moment in an action classic.
Great finds:
High-definition surround sound is a must. Blu-ray Home Entertainment System HT-J7750, with streaming ability, from R11,000, from Samsung.com/za.
Create the ultimate movie experience with a home projector. LG PF1500G LED mini-beam projector, R15,999,available at Makro.co.za and other independent retailers.
IDEAS FOR HOSTING A MOVIE NIGHT AT HOME
• For couples: Up the romance factor by dimming the lights and placing candles around the room. Cook a dinner together before settling in with a film for the night.
• For family: Regularly schedule a time for movies at home with the family. Take turns in choosing a film, and keep things relaxed by serving no-mess, no-fuss snacks.
• For friends: Invite friends around, and serve food and drink that’s in keeping with the theme of the movie. Ensure there’s enough seating for everyone to be comfortable.
Great finds:
What would movie night be without popcorn? Bella hot air popcorn maker, R499, from Yuppiechef.com.
Make your own slushes and shakes. Zoku Slush and Shake Maker, R299, from Home.co.za.
Fill individual tubs with treats, so everyone will have their own supply. Chevron Divine treat tubs, R35 for eight, from Gingerray.co.za.