Things You'll Need:
- Big screen TV
- Seating
- Tables
- Surround-sound speakers
- Blackout drapes
- Lighting that can be dimmed
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Step 1
Make the big screen TV an important element in the room by featuring it prominently, such as over a fireplace or on a large, blank wall. Or place the TV in an armoire or entertainment center with doors, so it can be hidden when the room is used for entertaining.
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Step 2
Choose furniture that provides comfort while viewing but does not make the room seem like a movie theater. A long sofa facing the TV, side chairs on rotating bases or recliners will keep the feeling of a living room but still allow for relaxed viewing.
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Step 3
Place end tables within easy reach of each chair and a coffee table in front of the sofa. Select finishes that won't be damaged by soft drink cans, bowls of popcorn or other snacks.
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Step 4
Install surround-sound speakers in the room. Build these into the walls or hide them behind plants and furniture or in decorative cubes.
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Step 5
Install blackout curtains or heavy drapes that easily can be opened and closed. Blackout curtains can be attractive additions to the room if designed to look like drapes.
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Step 6
Use lighting that can be dimmed. Kids watching cartoons need some light in the room. But adults watching a movie might prefer more of a theater experience with little light in the room other than from the TV.
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Step 7
Design the rest of the room as you would a normal living room. One caveat: Carpeting is preferable in a TV room because it dampens ambient sounds and reduces echoes.
