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While it’s always nice to spend time outdoors, there are days (and even weekends) when you just want to relax at home. When the urge to couch surf hits, you’re going to need a spot that works for binging the latest series, hanging out with friends and family, enjoying your beverage of choice, or even gaming.
We’re talking about the all-important home entertainment room.
In this article, we’ll cover some basics that can help make your entertainment room a more inviting space. We’ll look at everything from home theater tech to furniture to activity-specific areas, like a reading nook or a gaming center.
Are you ready to make your home entertainment room everything it could be? Let’s dive in.
The Humble Living Room Goes High Tech
If you’re serious about your living room remodel, there’s a decent chance you’ve at least considered upgrading the equipment in the room. For example, smart controls add an extra level of convenience to any living space.
Here are a few areas where upgrades may be in order.
The Universal Remote … Reborn
If you’re still using multiple remote controls to manage the TV, home theater system, and other components, you don’t know the convenience you’re missing out on. It’s time to ditch those remotes in favor of something simpler.
Budget Universal Remotes
The least expensive universal remotes out there cost about the same as a fast-food meal. And if user reviews are accurate, they’re well worth the small price.
The High-End Option
At the opposite end of the spectrum, you might be ready for some real remote firepower. If that’s the case, consider Logitech’s Harmony universal remotes. The top model includes a touch screen and even links to your smartphone.
Pump Up the Volume
Looking for another easy home theater upgrade? Add a soundbar. Your movies, TV shows and music will come alive with crisp, clear highs and deep, full lows.
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Smart Controls
The most devoted techies won’t want to stop with a universal remote and a sound system upgrade. And there’s no need to.
You can outfit your home entertainment room with smart controls to make it as high-tech as it is comfortable.
Smart Lighting
Smart lights, like Philips Hue or the less expensive Wyze Bulb, give you unreal control. Turn lights on, turn lights off, dim the lights, or even change the color of the room’s lighting—all without leaving your couch.
Smart Thermostat
The Nest Learning Thermostat may be the most well-known smart thermostat, but it’s far from the only option. Be sure to shop around. Look for an option that not only allows for remote control but also lowers your electric bill by helping you run a more energy-efficient home.
Furniture & Paint
Your entertainment room doesn’t just need all the tech bells and whistles. It needs to be a place you want to hang out in, too. So let’s give a little attention to some home décor basics.
Plush Fabrics & Textures
When it comes to comfort, everyone’s tastes may be different. Some like leather while others prefer the soft touch of velvet. The good news is that you don’t have to choose. You can mix and match fabrics and textures to suit your family’s preferences.
Complementary pieces make the room look more inviting. And if your large pieces (like that massive sectional) are part of a set, you can add lush throws or pillows to mix things up.
Inviting Color Palettes
The color of a room sets its tone. Neutrals colors are great for high-energy areas, but your home entertainment space likely needs a warmer palette. Deeper, richer colors make the space feel cozier.
An accent wall is a fantastic way to ramp up your color scheme without repainting the whole room. It provides depth to a small space and drama to a larger one. You can even add an extra dimension with a shiplap installment or textured treatments.
The best color palette is the one that is going to make you and your family feel most at home.
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Don’t Forget the Refreshments
If you plan to spend a lot of time in your entertainment room, you may want to consider adding a small beverage area.
It doesn’t have to be lavish. A small coffee bar or a mini-fridge with your favorite drinks are easy upgrade options that don’t break the bank.
Coffee & Tea
A coffee and tea bar may sound extravagant, but it’s actually an easy addition. Plus, it’ll save you frequent trips to the kitchen every time you need a refill.
This is especially helpful in homes where the entertainment space is on the other end of the house from the main breakfast nook. All you really need is a basic coffeemaker, an electric kettle, and well-stocked bins of your favorite hot drinks.
Wine & Spirits
An after-dinner drink can be a very pleasant way to wind down. And your favorite craft beer would go great with a movie night.
If you want an inexpensive starter bar, all you need is a small table, some glasses, a mini-fridge and possibly a wine rack.
Comfy Home Entertainment Crannies
Home entertainment rooms aren’t just for movie nights. You can layer all kinds of options on top of TV-centric activities with a little extra intention.
Reading Nook
If there are avid readers in your family, you can’t have too many reading nooks around the house. Your entertainment room is a great place for a cozy corner with plush cushions and good lighting.
You can add shelves for storing the latest library haul or a charging station so that you never have to worry about your e-reader running out of power.
Gaming Center
Some family members may prefer more interactive entertainment than simply watching movies or television. A designated gaming center in the family room gives them a place to play.
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Craft Corner
Every once in a while, it’s nice to completely unplug for a bit. A simple craft corner with a generous workspace and storage bins is perfect for a variety of projects.
Whether you are drawing, building models or working on a puzzle together, an artsy area in the common room can be a source of joy for the whole family.
Wrapping Up
Every home needs both outdoor and indoor entertainment spaces. When you’re not in an outdoor mood (or when the weather doesn’t cooperate), you’ll be glad you have a cozy home entertainment room.
Just be sure to plan ahead before you start your project by keeping the following checklist in mind.
- Determine your budget.
- Decide on exactly what you want to upgrade.
- Shop around for the best possible deals.
- If you’re tackling something you’re not comfortable doing on your own, seek out the help of a pro.
In no time at all, you’ll have a home entertainment room all the neighbors are talking about.
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