Interior designers, help your clients create a destination in their homes to gather and make memories—a media room! In a dedicated media room, families can enjoy the high-resolution entertainment of a private theater with added freedom to chat over drinks or play pool while the game’s on. They can settle in the dark to watch a film on the big screen or play cards while music swells from speakers and a subwoofer.

To truly ‘wow’ with design, we’ve rounded up the latest media room installation trends that your clients will love. And if you’re in the Charlotte, North Carolina region, The Integrated Home is your partner for all entertainment installations. Continue reading to learn more!

SEE ALSO: Install Media Components Into Any Room

1. Float the Furniture

It’s many people’s instinct to push couches and seating against a wall. But when you ‘float’ sofas in the middle of the room, you’ll create a space behind seating for games, a wine bar, and other activities. Folks can still relax and watch the screen from recliners and couches or have fun on the other side of the room. This will make the media room appear longer, freeing up space for more possibilities.

2. Hidden Technology

Is there a way to make a large TV screen and speakers appear minimalist? Yes, there is! If your client strives for sparse design, incorporate hidden technology solutions like an in-ceiling projector screen and in-wall speakers. When it’s time to start a movie, all your client will need to do is press a button on their smartphone or remote to lower the screen. In-floor screens that rise are a possibility, too. For robust surround sound, speakers can be placed inside walls, reducing the appearance of bulky technology. Plus, new mirror and artwork TVs disguise the screen’s appearance when not in use, so clients can enjoy the background while chatting with guests.

3. Smart Lighting

With a smart lighting system incorporated into the media room’s design, users can automatically lower all blinds and adjust the lighting from one touch of a button. A smart home system like Control4 lets your client create presets like ‘Movie Mode’ that turn off all lights, lower shades, and turn on small pathway lights to exit. Or they can switch to ‘Lounge Mode’, with soft, subdued lighting or fun colors. When every light in your space is easily controlled by a smartphone, tablet, or voice speaker, media room entertainment will become be more exciting and streamlined than ever.

4. Customized Film Screen

There’s more to a projector film screen than meets the eye. Did you know that the right color and texture of a screen depend entirely on the room? For example, white screens function best in a dark room with little to no ambient lighting. Matte gray or silver screens are optimal for preventing washout when there is ambient or uncontrollable lighting. Gray tones are an excellent choice for projectors with high lumens and low contrast, and black screens are essential for rooms with bright walls or windows. Some experts argue that black screens are the best choice overall, as you can enjoy videos during the day with no disturbances. Manufacturers like Screen Innovations offer plenty of screen options, so you’ll find the best fit for the media room’s needs.

By partnering with a smart technology integrator for your design projects, you can skillfully incorporate smart home solutions your clients will love. Ready to learn more? Give us a call at (704) 412-4040, fill out our contact form, or message a member of our team below! We look forward to speaking with you.