Search results for "Bonus activation" in Home Design Ideas

This very typical, 1947 built, story-and-a-half home in South Minneapolis had a small ‘U’ shaped kitchen adjacent to a similarly small dining room. These homeowners needed more space to prepare meals and store all the items needed in a modern kitchen. With a standard side entry access there was no more than a landing at the top of the basement stairs – no place to hang coats or even take off shoes!
Many years earlier, a small screened-in porch had been added off the dining room, but it was getting minimal use in our Minnesota climate.
With a new, spacious, family room addition in the place of the old screen porch and a 5’ expansion off the kitchen and side entry, along with removing the wall between the kitchen and the dining room, this home underwent a total transformation. What was once small cramped spaces is now a wide open great room containing kitchen, dining and family gathering spaces. As a bonus, a bright and functional mudroom was included to meet all their active family’s storage needs.
Natural light now flows throughout the space and Carrara marble accents in both the kitchen and around the fireplace tie the rooms together quite nicely! An ample amount of kitchen storage space was gained with Bayer Interior Woods cabinetry and stainless steel appliances are one of many modern conveniences this family can now enjoy daily. The flooring selection (Red Oak hardwood floors) will not only last for decades to come but also adds a warm feel to the whole home.
See full details (including before photos) on our website at http://www.castlebri.com/wholehouse/project-2408-1/ Designed by: Mark Benzell

This economical ranch house plan gains character and curb appeal from its charming front porch and multiple gables with decorative wood brackets, and its simplified, squared off design makes it practical to build. A tray ceiling and columns offer definition to the open dining room, while the great room and kitchen are enhanced by a cathedral ceiling. Built-in shelves flank the fireplace, and a rear deck expands the great room further. The kitchen sports a convenient U-shape, and its open design keeps the cook in the heart of family activities. A popular split bedroom design places the master suite to one side of the house plan with its own bath and his and her walk-in closets. A bonus room over the garage provides options for growing families.

THE SETUP
This remodeling project transformed a catchall room into a cinema-style theater designed for family entertainment and relaxation. The original space, which housed a small TV, older furniture, and various children’s toys, was reimagined to create a sophisticated, adult-friendly home theater with ample seating and modern amenities.
Design Objectives:
Create a Dark Theater Space: Ensure the room mimics a traditional movie theater environment.
Provide Comfortable Theater Seating: Include enough seating for the family and guests.
Integrate a Dry Bar Area: Include a space for snacks and drinks.
Optimize Space Utilization: Maintain an open area for additional activities.
Design Challenges:
Natural light: The room was too bright for a theater setting.
Seating: Accommodating six theater seats without obstructing views.
Lighting: Ensuring the lighting does not interfere with the viewing experience.
AV: Finding a clutter-free solution for AV equipment.
Dry Bar: Incorporating a dry bar area without overcrowding the space.
Viewing: Ensuring the TV placement allows for comfortable, optimized viewing.
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Natural Light Control: Installed blackout remote shades on the back window and painted the walls dark charcoal to reduce natural light infiltration.
Seating Arrangement: Built a second level for the back row of seating to ensure unobstructed views for all movie watchers.
Lighting Design: Installed sconces on either side of the window that shine from the sides (to avoid interfering with the viewing experience).
AV Equipment Storage: Utilized existing recess areas with custom shelves matching the cabinetry and concealed cables using a PVC pipe system.
Dry Bar Integration: Created a dry bar area on the back wall with a refrigerator, candy storage, and a small counter space for a popcorn machine and ice maker, with locked drawers to prevent unsupervised access.
Optimal Viewing Distance: Evaluated multiple floor plans and placed the TV on the most suitable wall to ensure optimal viewing and comfortable reclined seating.
Final Thoughts:
The completed home theater has been a resounding success, providing a versatile space for the entire family. The thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail have created a functional and enjoyable home theater that meets diverse needs, from watching movies and playing video games to relaxing and reading. The areas to the sides of the theater seats can accommodate spillover seating or activity zones. The area housing the AV equipment also includes extra shelves for storing snuggle-grade movie viewing blankets. This theater space has become a favorite hangout spot, offering comfort and entertainment for everyone.
This view shows the dual level theater seating, bean bags, open AV shelving on the right to tuck the cables which our installers ran behind the TV with PVC piping.
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THE SETUP
This remodeling project transformed a catchall room into a cinema-style theater designed for family entertainment and relaxation. The original space, which housed a small TV, older furniture, and various children’s toys, was reimagined to create a sophisticated, adult-friendly home theater with ample seating and modern amenities.
Design Objectives:
Create a Dark Theater Space: Ensure the room mimics a traditional movie theater environment.
Provide Comfortable Theater Seating: Include enough seating for the family and guests.
Integrate a Dry Bar Area: Include a space for snacks and drinks.
Optimize Space Utilization: Maintain an open area for additional activities.
Design Challenges:
Natural light: The room was too bright for a theater setting.
Seating: Accommodating six theater seats without obstructing views.
Lighting: Ensuring the lighting does not interfere with the viewing experience.
AV: Finding a clutter-free solution for AV equipment.
Dry Bar: Incorporating a dry bar area without overcrowding the space.
Viewing: Ensuring the TV placement allows for comfortable, optimized viewing.
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Natural Light Control: Installed blackout remote shades on the back window and painted the walls dark charcoal to reduce natural light infiltration.
Seating Arrangement: Built a second level for the back row of seating to ensure unobstructed views for all movie watchers.
Lighting Design: Installed sconces on either side of the window that shine from the sides (to avoid interfering with the viewing experience).
AV Equipment Storage: Utilized existing recess areas with custom shelves matching the cabinetry and concealed cables using a PVC pipe system.
Dry Bar Integration: Created a dry bar area on the back wall with a refrigerator, candy storage, and a small counter space for a popcorn machine and ice maker, with locked drawers to prevent unsupervised access.
Optimal Viewing Distance: Evaluated multiple floor plans and placed the TV on the most suitable wall to ensure optimal viewing and comfortable reclined seating.
Final Thoughts:
The completed home theater has been a resounding success, providing a versatile space for the entire family. The thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail have created a functional and enjoyable home theater that meets diverse needs, from watching movies and playing video games to relaxing and reading. The areas to the sides of the theater seats can accommodate spillover seating or activity zones. The area housing the AV equipment also includes extra shelves for storing snuggle-grade movie viewing blankets. This theater space has become a favorite hangout spot, offering comfort and entertainment for everyone.
This view shows the dual level theater seating, bean bags, open AV shelving on the right to tuck the cables which our installers ran behind the TV with PVC piping.

THE SETUP
This remodeling project transformed a catchall room into a cinema-style theater designed for family entertainment and relaxation. The original space, which housed a small TV, older furniture, and various children’s toys, was reimagined to create a sophisticated, adult-friendly home theater with ample seating and modern amenities.
Design Objectives:
Create a Dark Theater Space: Ensure the room mimics a traditional movie theater environment.
Provide Comfortable Theater Seating: Include enough seating for the family and guests.
Integrate a Dry Bar Area: Include a space for snacks and drinks.
Optimize Space Utilization: Maintain an open area for additional activities.
Design Challenges:
Natural light: The room was too bright for a theater setting.
Seating: Accommodating six theater seats without obstructing views.
Lighting: Ensuring the lighting does not interfere with the viewing experience.
AV: Finding a clutter-free solution for AV equipment.
Dry Bar: Incorporating a dry bar area without overcrowding the space.
Viewing: Ensuring the TV placement allows for comfortable, optimized viewing.
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Natural Light Control: Installed blackout remote shades on the back window and painted the walls dark charcoal to reduce natural light infiltration.
Seating Arrangement: Built a second level for the back row of seating to ensure unobstructed views for all movie watchers.
Lighting Design: Installed sconces on either side of the window that shine from the sides (to avoid interfering with the viewing experience).
AV Equipment Storage: Utilized existing recess areas with custom shelves matching the cabinetry and concealed cables using a PVC pipe system.
Dry Bar Integration: Created a dry bar area on the back wall with a refrigerator, candy storage, and a small counter space for a popcorn machine and ice maker, with locked drawers to prevent unsupervised access.
Optimal Viewing Distance: Evaluated multiple floor plans and placed the TV on the most suitable wall to ensure optimal viewing and comfortable reclined seating.
Final Thoughts:
The completed home theater has been a resounding success, providing a versatile space for the entire family. The thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail have created a functional and enjoyable home theater that meets diverse needs, from watching movies and playing video games to relaxing and reading. The areas to the sides of the theater seats can accommodate spillover seating or activity zones. The area housing the AV equipment also includes extra shelves for storing snuggle-grade movie viewing blankets. This theater space has become a favorite hangout spot, offering comfort and entertainment for everyone.
This view shows the dual level theater seating, bean bags, open AV shelving on the right to tuck the cables which our installers ran behind the TV with PVC piping.

This economical ranch house plan gains character and curb appeal from its charming front porch and multiple gables with decorative wood brackets, and its simplified, squared off design makes it practical to build. A tray ceiling and columns offer definition to the open dining room, while the great room and kitchen are enhanced by a cathedral ceiling. Built-in shelves flank the fireplace, and a rear deck expands the great room further. The kitchen sports a convenient U-shape, and its open design keeps the cook in the heart of family activities. A popular split bedroom design places the master suite to one side of the house plan with its own bath and his and her walk-in closets. A bonus room over the garage provides options for growing families.

THE SETUP
This remodeling project transformed a catchall room into a cinema-style theater designed for family entertainment and relaxation. The original space, which housed a small TV, older furniture, and various children’s toys, was reimagined to create a sophisticated, adult-friendly home theater with ample seating and modern amenities.
Design Objectives:
Create a Dark Theater Space: Ensure the room mimics a traditional movie theater environment.
Provide Comfortable Theater Seating: Include enough seating for the family and guests.
Integrate a Dry Bar Area: Include a space for snacks and drinks.
Optimize Space Utilization: Maintain an open area for additional activities.
Design Challenges:
Natural light: The room was too bright for a theater setting.
Seating: Accommodating six theater seats without obstructing views.
Lighting: Ensuring the lighting does not interfere with the viewing experience.
AV: Finding a clutter-free solution for AV equipment.
Dry Bar: Incorporating a dry bar area without overcrowding the space.
Viewing: Ensuring the TV placement allows for comfortable, optimized viewing.
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Natural Light Control: Installed blackout remote shades on the back window and painted the walls dark charcoal to reduce natural light infiltration.
Seating Arrangement: Built a second level for the back row of seating to ensure unobstructed views for all movie watchers.
Lighting Design: Installed sconces on either side of the window that shine from the sides (to avoid interfering with the viewing experience).
AV Equipment Storage: Utilized existing recess areas with custom shelves matching the cabinetry and concealed cables using a PVC pipe system.
Dry Bar Integration: Created a dry bar area on the back wall with a refrigerator, candy storage, and a small counter space for a popcorn machine and ice maker, with locked drawers to prevent unsupervised access.
Optimal Viewing Distance: Evaluated multiple floor plans and placed the TV on the most suitable wall to ensure optimal viewing and comfortable reclined seating.
Final Thoughts:
The completed home theater has been a resounding success, providing a versatile space for the entire family. The thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail have created a functional and enjoyable home theater that meets diverse needs, from watching movies and playing video games to relaxing and reading. The areas to the sides of the theater seats can accommodate spillover seating or activity zones. The area housing the AV equipment also includes extra shelves for storing snuggle-grade movie viewing blankets. This theater space has become a favorite hangout spot, offering comfort and entertainment for everyone.
This view shows the dual level theater seating, bean bags, open AV shelving on the right to tuck the cables which our installers ran behind the TV with PVC piping.

THE SETUP
This remodeling project transformed a catchall room into a cinema-style theater designed for family entertainment and relaxation. The original space, which housed a small TV, older furniture, and various children’s toys, was reimagined to create a sophisticated, adult-friendly home theater with ample seating and modern amenities.
Design Objectives:
Create a Dark Theater Space: Ensure the room mimics a traditional movie theater environment.
Provide Comfortable Theater Seating: Include enough seating for the family and guests.
Integrate a Dry Bar Area: Include a space for snacks and drinks.
Optimize Space Utilization: Maintain an open area for additional activities.
Design Challenges:
Natural light: The room was too bright for a theater setting.
Seating: Accommodating six theater seats without obstructing views.
Lighting: Ensuring the lighting does not interfere with the viewing experience.
AV: Finding a clutter-free solution for AV equipment.
Dry Bar: Incorporating a dry bar area without overcrowding the space.
Viewing: Ensuring the TV placement allows for comfortable, optimized viewing.
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Natural Light Control: Installed blackout remote shades on the back window and painted the walls dark charcoal to reduce natural light infiltration.
Seating Arrangement: Built a second level for the back row of seating to ensure unobstructed views for all movie watchers.
Lighting Design: Installed sconces on either side of the window that shine from the sides (to avoid interfering with the viewing experience).
AV Equipment Storage: Utilized existing recess areas with custom shelves matching the cabinetry and concealed cables using a PVC pipe system.
Dry Bar Integration: Created a dry bar area on the back wall with a refrigerator, candy storage, and a small counter space for a popcorn machine and ice maker, with locked drawers to prevent unsupervised access.
Optimal Viewing Distance: Evaluated multiple floor plans and placed the TV on the most suitable wall to ensure optimal viewing and comfortable reclined seating.
Final Thoughts:
The completed home theater has been a resounding success, providing a versatile space for the entire family. The thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail have created a functional and enjoyable home theater that meets diverse needs, from watching movies and playing video games to relaxing and reading. The areas to the sides of the theater seats can accommodate spillover seating or activity zones. The area housing the AV equipment also includes extra shelves for storing snuggle-grade movie viewing blankets. This theater space has become a favorite hangout spot, offering comfort and entertainment for everyone.
This view shows the dual level theater seating, bean bags, open AV shelving on the right to tuck the cables which our installers ran behind the TV with PVC piping.

Built by Schumacher Homes, America's Largest Custom Home Builder, this stunning Beverly II Carolina showcase home highlights the very best of custom home building in Columbia, South Carolina. The main residence features a thoughtfully designed 2,428-square-foot floor plan offering 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. As a larger, expanded version of our extremely popular Beverly design, this version provides more than enough room to comfortably accommodate life's everyday needs, making it a highly sought-after layout for modern families looking to build on their lot in the Columbia area.
The heart and central hub of the home is the deluxe, open-concept eat-in kitchen. Equipped with a large kitchen island, this open layout flows seamlessly into the main great room and dining room, making it the absolute perfect space for cooking, entertaining family and friends, or managing weeknight homework. The home also features a bright morning room that beautifully captures the day’s first natural light, ensuring that relaxing and unwinding are always right at your doorstep. For ultimate flexibility, a dedicated main-floor flex room is open to your interpretation, serving perfectly as a quiet home office or formal den.
The private quarters of the home are designed with true luxury in mind, led by a massive owner's retreat that offers a peaceful escape from the daily grind. The master bedroom features an elegant vaulted tray ceiling, adding a striking architectural detail that creates an elevated sense of volume and luxury. The attached primary bathroom includes the ever-popular dual vanities and dual walk-in closets for maximum storage efficiency. On the second level, a versatile bonus room provides the perfect spot for a children's playroom, a private home workout room, or an active game room. Blending timeless Carolina charm with modern functionality, this Beverly II design is an exceptional example of premium quality craftsmanship.

Nestled in the prestigious Whitetail subdivision of McCall, Idaho, this exceptional 4,751 sq ft home sitting on 2.8 wooded acres offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and functionality. Designed with space, comfort, and privacy in mind, it features two elegant primary suites each with their own patio, two additional en-suites, the perfect bunk room/bonus room with a full bathroom and a dedicated study. The expansive kitchen features a generous walk-in pantry, ideal for entertaining or everyday living. Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor living, a hydraulic awning window opens to a large rear patio and acreage behind the home that offers the perfect space for family activities, gatherings, and privacy. The property also includes a massive 1,859 sq ft garage with room for three vehicles plus an RV bay—perfect for all your toys, cars, and gear. This property has room for an additional toy barn if needed. Perfectly positioned to take full advantage of Whitetail Club’s incredible amenities, this home invites you to enjoy golf, tennis, gym, fish & swim club, pickleball, pools, trails, private lake access, fine dining, multiple exclusive restaurants and epic year-round events. It’s a place where family, relaxation, and adventure come together.

THE SETUP
This remodeling project transformed a catchall room into a cinema-style theater designed for family entertainment and relaxation. The original space, which housed a small TV, older furniture, and various children’s toys, was reimagined to create a sophisticated, adult-friendly home theater with ample seating and modern amenities.
Design Objectives:
Create a Dark Theater Space: Ensure the room mimics a traditional movie theater environment.
Provide Comfortable Theater Seating: Include enough seating for the family and guests.
Integrate a Dry Bar Area: Include a space for snacks and drinks.
Optimize Space Utilization: Maintain an open area for additional activities.
Design Challenges:
Natural light: The room was too bright for a theater setting.
Seating: Accommodating six theater seats without obstructing views.
Lighting: Ensuring the lighting does not interfere with the viewing experience.
AV: Finding a clutter-free solution for AV equipment.
Dry Bar: Incorporating a dry bar area without overcrowding the space.
Viewing: Ensuring the TV placement allows for comfortable, optimized viewing.
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Natural Light Control: Installed blackout remote shades on the back window and painted the walls dark charcoal to reduce natural light infiltration.
Seating Arrangement: Built a second level for the back row of seating to ensure unobstructed views for all movie watchers.
Lighting Design: Installed sconces on either side of the window that shine from the sides (to avoid interfering with the viewing experience).
AV Equipment Storage: Utilized existing recess areas with custom shelves matching the cabinetry and concealed cables using a PVC pipe system.
Dry Bar Integration: Created a dry bar area on the back wall with a refrigerator, candy storage, and a small counter space for a popcorn machine and ice maker, with locked drawers to prevent unsupervised access.
Optimal Viewing Distance: Evaluated multiple floor plans and placed the TV on the most suitable wall to ensure optimal viewing and comfortable reclined seating.
Final Thoughts:
The completed home theater has been a resounding success, providing a versatile space for the entire family. The thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail have created a functional and enjoyable home theater that meets diverse needs, from watching movies and playing video games to relaxing and reading. The areas to the sides of the theater seats can accommodate spillover seating or activity zones. The area housing the AV equipment also includes extra shelves for storing snuggle-grade movie viewing blankets. This theater space has become a favorite hangout spot, offering comfort and entertainment for everyone.
Another view of before, we changed the entire TV viewing set up so we could fit two rows of recliners in the space with no viewing issues.

The Sunlight Peak by Skyline Construction is a beautifully crafted four-level home that blends modern design, exceptional functionality, and premium finishes in the Buffalo Meadows community of Mills, Wyoming. Offering 2,559 square feet of finished living space, this move-in-ready residence features 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and multiple living areas designed to accommodate today's active lifestyles.
The bright, open-concept main level welcomes you with abundant natural light, vaulted ceilings, and an efficient layout that creates an inviting atmosphere for both everyday living and entertaining. At the heart of the home is a thoughtfully designed kitchen featuring granite countertops, a stylish subway tile backsplash, a spacious walk-in pantry, and quality cabinetry that provides ample storage and workspace for home chefs.
The upper level is dedicated to comfort and privacy, highlighted by a spacious primary suite complete with a walk-in closet and a beautifully appointed bathroom featuring custom tile shower finishes. Additional bedrooms provide comfortable accommodations for family members, guests, or flexible work-from-home space.
One of the home's standout features is its fully finished lower levels, offering an additional bedroom, full bathroom, and a generous bonus living area with an egress window. Whether used as a family room, media space, home gym, playroom, or guest suite, these versatile areas significantly expand the home's functionality while maintaining Skyline Construction's high-quality craftsmanship.
Premium upgrades throughout the home include upgraded black Gerkin energy-efficient windows, luxury vinyl plank flooring, custom tile showers, central air conditioning, and an enlarged rear patio ideal for outdoor gatherings. The attached two-car garage has been fully insulated and professionally finished with drywall, texture, and paint, creating a polished and highly functional workspace.
Outside, the fully fenced backyard provides privacy and space for recreation, while the professionally landscaped front yard features an automatic underground sprinkler system for easy maintenance. Located in Buffalo Meadows, homeowners enjoy convenient access to schools, parks, shopping, and the Casper area while taking advantage of beautiful mountain views and the comfort of new construction.
Built by Skyline Construction, the Sunlight Peak demonstrates the company's dedication to superior craftsmanship, energy-efficient building practices, and thoughtfully designed homes that combine style, comfort, and lasting value.

When we first met with the home owners they told us that they would be going out of town for 10 days with their 3 children and they would be happy if we could finish this project within 10 days plus getting it dust free and clean before they get back. The challenge was on! 2 bathrooms, 2000 sqft of tile, a complete dining room addition, and a garage renovation! we were able to successfully complete the project just in time. The kids got so excited coming home to a new house with lots of extra room for activities, Mission complete! This is an after picture of the living room and additional dining room.

THE SETUP
This remodeling project transformed a catchall room into a cinema-style theater designed for family entertainment and relaxation. The original space, which housed a small TV, older furniture, and various children’s toys, was reimagined to create a sophisticated, adult-friendly home theater with ample seating and modern amenities.
Design Objectives:
Create a Dark Theater Space: Ensure the room mimics a traditional movie theater environment.
Provide Comfortable Theater Seating: Include enough seating for the family and guests.
Integrate a Dry Bar Area: Include a space for snacks and drinks.
Optimize Space Utilization: Maintain an open area for additional activities.
Design Challenges:
Natural light: The room was too bright for a theater setting.
Seating: Accommodating six theater seats without obstructing views.
Lighting: Ensuring the lighting does not interfere with the viewing experience.
AV: Finding a clutter-free solution for AV equipment.
Dry Bar: Incorporating a dry bar area without overcrowding the space.
Viewing: Ensuring the TV placement allows for comfortable, optimized viewing.
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Natural Light Control: Installed blackout remote shades on the back window and painted the walls dark charcoal to reduce natural light infiltration.
Seating Arrangement: Built a second level for the back row of seating to ensure unobstructed views for all movie watchers.
Lighting Design: Installed sconces on either side of the window that shine from the sides (to avoid interfering with the viewing experience).
AV Equipment Storage: Utilized existing recess areas with custom shelves matching the cabinetry and concealed cables using a PVC pipe system.
Dry Bar Integration: Created a dry bar area on the back wall with a refrigerator, candy storage, and a small counter space for a popcorn machine and ice maker, with locked drawers to prevent unsupervised access.
Optimal Viewing Distance: Evaluated multiple floor plans and placed the TV on the most suitable wall to ensure optimal viewing and comfortable reclined seating.
Final Thoughts:
The completed home theater has been a resounding success, providing a versatile space for the entire family. The thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail have created a functional and enjoyable home theater that meets diverse needs, from watching movies and playing video games to relaxing and reading. The areas to the sides of the theater seats can accommodate spillover seating or activity zones. The area housing the AV equipment also includes extra shelves for storing snuggle-grade movie viewing blankets. This theater space has become a favorite hangout spot, offering comfort and entertainment for everyone.
This is the kid and parent friendly candy-liquor dry bar. It is the home to a mini fridge, ice machine, and popcorn machine. The inspiration behind the custom drawers was the feeling you get walking inot a real theater and seeing all the candy in the glass. Yes, all the drawers actually do lock so the kids can't get into the candy for a midnight snack.

This economical ranch house plan gains character and curb appeal from its charming front porch and multiple gables with decorative wood brackets, and its simplified, squared off design makes it practical to build. A tray ceiling and columns offer definition to the open dining room, while the great room and kitchen are enhanced by a cathedral ceiling. Built-in shelves flank the fireplace, and a rear deck expands the great room further. The kitchen sports a convenient U-shape, and its open design keeps the cook in the heart of family activities. A popular split bedroom design places the master suite to one side of the house plan with its own bath and his and her walk-in closets. A bonus room over the garage provides options for growing families.

Designed for relaxation and fun, this versatile rec room offers the perfect space for family gatherings and casual entertaining. With comfortable seating, media hookups, and room for games or activities, it’s a go-to spot for unwinding at home.

THE SETUP
This remodeling project transformed a catchall room into a cinema-style theater designed for family entertainment and relaxation. The original space, which housed a small TV, older furniture, and various children’s toys, was reimagined to create a sophisticated, adult-friendly home theater with ample seating and modern amenities.
Design Objectives:
Create a Dark Theater Space: Ensure the room mimics a traditional movie theater environment.
Provide Comfortable Theater Seating: Include enough seating for the family and guests.
Integrate a Dry Bar Area: Include a space for snacks and drinks.
Optimize Space Utilization: Maintain an open area for additional activities.
Design Challenges:
Natural light: The room was too bright for a theater setting.
Seating: Accommodating six theater seats without obstructing views.
Lighting: Ensuring the lighting does not interfere with the viewing experience.
AV: Finding a clutter-free solution for AV equipment.
Dry Bar: Incorporating a dry bar area without overcrowding the space.
Viewing: Ensuring the TV placement allows for comfortable, optimized viewing.
THE RENEWED SPACE
Design Solutions:
Natural Light Control: Installed blackout remote shades on the back window and painted the walls dark charcoal to reduce natural light infiltration.
Seating Arrangement: Built a second level for the back row of seating to ensure unobstructed views for all movie watchers.
Lighting Design: Installed sconces on either side of the window that shine from the sides (to avoid interfering with the viewing experience).
AV Equipment Storage: Utilized existing recess areas with custom shelves matching the cabinetry and concealed cables using a PVC pipe system.
Dry Bar Integration: Created a dry bar area on the back wall with a refrigerator, candy storage, and a small counter space for a popcorn machine and ice maker, with locked drawers to prevent unsupervised access.
Optimal Viewing Distance: Evaluated multiple floor plans and placed the TV on the most suitable wall to ensure optimal viewing and comfortable reclined seating.
Final Thoughts:
The completed home theater has been a resounding success, providing a versatile space for the entire family. The thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail have created a functional and enjoyable home theater that meets diverse needs, from watching movies and playing video games to relaxing and reading. The areas to the sides of the theater seats can accommodate spillover seating or activity zones. The area housing the AV equipment also includes extra shelves for storing snuggle-grade movie viewing blankets. This theater space has become a favorite hangout spot, offering comfort and entertainment for everyone.
This before shows the dramatic transformation from kid friendly to entirely family friendly with a moody sophisticated space perfect for the boys or mom and dad.

Scandinavian Home Staging
Family room - scandinavian medium tone wood floor family room idea in San Francisco
Family room - scandinavian medium tone wood floor family room idea in San Francisco

This economical ranch house plan gains character and curb appeal from its charming front porch and multiple gables with decorative wood brackets, and its simplified, squared off design makes it practical to build. A tray ceiling and columns offer definition to the open dining room, while the great room and kitchen are enhanced by a cathedral ceiling. Built-in shelves flank the fireplace, and a rear deck expands the great room further. The kitchen sports a convenient U-shape, and its open design keeps the cook in the heart of family activities. A popular split bedroom design places the master suite to one side of the house plan with its own bath and his and her walk-in closets. A bonus room over the garage provides options for growing families.
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