When it's too hot outside to play, a home entertainment room is the place to stay. Whether you use it for watching movies on a big screen, gaming, reading, conversation or partying, you'll want to have it as comfortable and flexible as possible. Here are some ideas for making it work:
When decorating a home entertainment center, there are a wide variety of furnishings to choose from.1. Seating for one or many
If the main function of the room is media, recliners with consoles will give you an intimate home theater look that lets you watch with all the comforts of home. Or you could do groupings and sectionals for greater versatility, especially when entertaining. Consider benches and upholstered ottomans instead of coffee tables. They're not only cushioned for seating – some even offer storage inside. And don't forget loveseats or individual armchairs for those comfy corners and nooks where you can curl up with a book or just chill out.
2. The center of attention
Whether your television screen is average or extra large, it often serves as the focal point of the room. So consoles or media center wall units provide a practical setting for the screen as well as a distinctive centerpiece for the room decor. Here's where you can exercise your creativity and sense of design, since there are many different options available to suit your style, from high tech to traditional, or a more casual country look. Some units even feature a fireplace insert.
3. Tables for traditional play
If your passion is cards or board games, a table with chairs is a must. And before or after the game, the table can double as a dining area. Choose round or rectangular, formal or eclectic, large or small, with or without a drop leaf, depending on the space and your own particular tastes.
4. Display some shelf control
An entertainment center usually needs readily accessible storage for videos, games, books, and other items. There is a wide range of possibilities to select from, including open shelving and tier units, media chests and drawers, consoles, towers and more. Beyond accommodating the media hardware, you'll also want to keep in mind other decor items as well, such as entertainment-related memorabilia, framed family photographs, potted plants, collectibles, sculpture, knickknacks, blankets and other objects to make the room more homey and inviting.
5. The accent is on style
Sometimes small end tables and accent pieces are the perfect complements to larger furniture like recliners, sectionals and armchairs. They can serve as pedestals for candles and lamps, or resting places for books, beverages, snacks and other items. You can also use end tables as stylish plant stands or as a way to display special photographs. Some, like X-shaped tables, even make a fashion statement all their own.
6. Lights, camera, action!
When outfitting the entertainment room, you'll also want to take into consideration the special lighting needs of the space, including low-key, dimmable lamps for gaming and media watching as well as maximum illumination for group gatherings and other events. Your choices include traditional chandeliers, pendant lights, recessed lighting, wall sconces, table lamps and floor lamps in a wide range of styles and colors – and even stylish touches like LED string lights for an informal, dramatic effect.
7. Furnishing the finishing touches
Last but not least, think about the walls, floors, window treatments and other miscellaneous decor possibilities. They need to be both attractive and functional. For example, curtains or drapes will probably need to completely block out any stray light from outdoors – and rugs, carpeting or flooring should be the type that's easily maintained, especially when the inevitable spills and stains occur.
Whether you're creating a new entertainment center from scratch or redecorating an existing room, head to Arwood's Furniture and Mattress! Family-owned and operated, Arwood's has the largest selection of Missouri furniture. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the best products for your needs and budget.
