This is a new build thread for a new start on a project I started over a year ago. The original build thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1010489) along with the project it covered faded from memory to be buried in the dark recesses of the AVS forum. This is an attempt to breathe new life into my ailing project, A New Hope you could say.

Project Scope:
To turn an unfinished basement into a family entertainment center with a semi-dedicated home theater, a game room, pool hall, exercise area, bathroom & storage.

Timeline: No bloody way I am giving anyone a timeline... not this time.

Budget: See Timeline... I am not setting a strict budget but this is not going to be an extravagant build. At the same time there are some areas where I refuse to cut corners.

HT Size: HT Room is 11'-5" wide (expanding to 14' on one side) by 18' deep with 8'-9" ceilings. It is partially open at the back...

Usage: 55% Movies, 30% Gaming, 15% TV

Projector: Epson Home Cinema 8100

Screen: 106" diag 16 x 9 Screen

AV Receiver: I have an Onkyo HT-SR800 HT System though it will be replaced when it's all said and done...

Speakers: Infinity Primus Fronts, Infinity In-Walls for Surrounds, YAMAHA SW315 Sub (For Now)

Seating: First Row - 3 Berkline 12006s, Second Row: 2 Recliner Couch

Addiontal Equipment:
HTPC - For Digital Content / DVDs /Games
PS3 - For Blue ray / Games
Xbox 360 elite - For Games
DishNetwork HD DVR Box - For TV

Rack: Built-in...

Acoustic Treatments: Basic "Hang on the Wall" type for first reflection points... More as needed.

Other Stuff:
I have a great old 8' pool table with ball return that I am planning on refinishing for the "Pool Hall"... The "Bar" at the back of the theater and the "Game Room" will be wired for for LAN gaming...


Current Status: Building DVD Case Doors
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1388.jpg

Done:
Most of the Wall Framing
Most of the Soffit Framing
Hot & Cold Supply to Bathroom and Kit
6' Arch for the entry from the Pool Hall
5' Arch for the Kit
7' Arch for the Bar
3' Arch fro the Theater Entrance
2 10' Arches for the Theater
Hung Storage Pocket Door
Finish Framing Soffits and Ceilings in Pool Hall
Finish Framing Soffits and Ceilings in Hidden Office
Finish Framing Soffits and Ceilings in Bathroom
Frame Bathroom Pocket Door
Run new ducts and returns
Wire outlets
Decide on final lighting plan
Wire Switches, Lights & Fans
Run LV Cables and Conduit
Add Sheetrock Nailers where needed
Insulate
Hang Sheetrock
Finish Framing Walls in Exercise Area
Wire Exercise Area
Insulate Exercise Area
Hang more Sheetrock
Finish Sheetrock
Paint
Hang Fixtures and Install Can Light Trim
Install Outlets & Wire Insteon Switches
Build Stage & Riser
Install DryCore In carpeted areas
Install Cabinets for Kit and Bathroom
Tile Floors, Shower & Wall Locations
Tile Counters for Bar and Kit
Pick-out Carpet
Pick-out & buy seating
Buy Projector & Screen
Have Carpet Installed
Hang Screen and Projector
Wire all the gear correctly ;)
Get new receiver and universal remote
Hang Doors
Tweak Projector & Receiver
Build new HT/Gaming PC
Program Universal Remote


To Do:

Build and Fit two DVD Case Hidden-Doors
Seal Tile & Grout
Build Built-in Bookcase for the Pool Hall
Install Trim - 75% Done
Have fun with new area! - Already Started

Inspirations

These are the models for my theater... They all have elements that I hope to emulate in my own space. Here's to hoping it turns out half as nice.
Jamis' Theater Thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=794089) - Jamis
Buffbaker’s Bar & Theater (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=628588&highlight=buffbaker) - BuffBakerGA
“The Get Away” Theater (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1022589&page=1) - djlemo
The Fog Valley Cinema (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=954209) - Driving_Hamster
Arbor Oak Cinema (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=683853) - BIGmouthinDC
PGA Theater (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940483) - Wazzey

Great use of a small space...
Theater for Hobbits - Big screen, miniscule space (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940105) - snowkarver
Framing starts soon and I'm not ready! Thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=839053) - BShaw@BedHandles'

Reference for Theater 2.0
Big Red theater build 21’ x 27’ (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=761723)

Best Before and After Pics on AVS
MatFlix (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=16316309#post16316309)

Home Theater & Game Room
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/vtht.jpg

Screen Wall
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/Screenwall.jpg

The Final??? Plan
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/FinalPlan.jpg

This is what we have to work with (click-able thumbs):

Future Home Theater|Future Bathroom & Electrical|Future Exercise Room
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_futureHT.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=futureHT.jpg)|http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_futurebathroomandelectricalroom.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=futurebathroomandelectricalroom.jpg)|http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_futureexerciseroom.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=futureexerciseroom.jpg)
Future Game Room| Future Pool Hall
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_futuregameroom.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=futuregameroom.jpg)|http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_futurepoolhall.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=futurepoolhall.jpg)

Before all of the "Delay Factors (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=16222491#post16222491)" last year I was able to get some basic framing done, added a drain for the Kitchenette (Kit) got "pink stuff" on the walls and replaced two of the windows with a 3 ft x 6 ft slider with BOTH sides removable... (This gave me an egress and a way to pass materials w/o going through the house.)

Old Windows|New Windows
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0629.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0629.jpg)|http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_newwindow.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=newwindow.jpg)
Basic Framing|Kit Drain
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0715.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0715.jpg)|http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0714.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0714.jpg)

This is the Kitchenette Area (or Kit as I call it... Why make the word for a small kitchen longer???)
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0932-1.jpg

Bar at the back of the theater and theater entrance (Arch to the right)
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0933-1.jpg

Bar and Kit (arch on the left)
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0934-1.jpg

View into theater as if you were sitting at the bar
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0937-1.jpg

Back of the theater looking from the screen
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0943-1.jpg

Game Room - It's a fairly small area and I'm still struggling with the layout. At least and LCD and some game chairs...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0944-1.jpg

Arched entry into the Game Room / Theater area from the "Pool Hall"
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0930.jpg

View From Bar
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/SUtheaterfrombar.jpg

Top View Theater and EQ Area
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/SUtopviewTheaterEQArea.jpg

Top View Theater and Game Room
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/SUtopviewTheaterGameRoom.jpg

Bar & Kit
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/SUtheaterkit.jpg

Gota love FedEx.. My front (L&R) speakers came yesterday: Infinity Primus P362s along with the 4th In-Wall: Infinity ERS210IIS for surrounds.

All that is left is a new center and subs. Not that I don't have PLENTY of time before they are needed.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1036.jpg

I know they aren't high-end but they sound good to me and I got a REALLY GOOD deal on them!

Looks like you got a great space down there!!! Good luck with the build. Kids do suck the extra time right out the windows don't they.:D I've got a nine month old and am loving every minute of it!! Kudos for still going strong!!

Subbed.

Love the arches!! Nice looking project and well documented!

Thanks Luke,

Daddy's helper above will be 5 this summer... She spent 2 hrs last Saturday sweeping up sawdust, thought it was fun :)

My little Delay Factor is 8 mo old... she wanted to eat the sawdust...

Love the arches!! Nice looking project and well documented!

It's no barrel ceiling, like one rather nice build I saw here recently, but I think they add a little something ;)

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1239650409.jpg

My helper and I installed some 6" flexible duct... Boxes are great fun aren't they :D

I'll post some build pics when I get the rest of my duct work in place...

OK I'm looking for some opinions here for general design or theme. For a variety of reasons I can't go crazy with a fully themed room but I do want to introduce some style into the room.

One Idea is to do a vague steampunk theme showing wires and brackets here and there but keeping it tasteful. If I go this route there would be more stained woodwork and built-ins along with bronze/copper accents. Here is a fixture as an example:
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/HDSPLIGHT.jpg

The other is to go with just a simple clean style to everything... a nice look and I tend to favor sparse and simple in my tastes... If I go this route I will be looking at more sheetrock, painted trim and built-ins. Here is a fixture as an example:
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/842235576949.jpg

These are the type of fixtures I will have in the theater, mounted on the side of the soffits pointed down towards the seating area and an other set washing the screenwall...
Now I just need to decide on style. I know it seams a bit early in the process but there are some things I want to do differently depending on what style I choose.

Option #1, I love that fixture!!

Option #1 also
any way you could post a link to that fixture :D Thanks

Sure...

They are Home Depot fixtures only like $30 but Web Only... :confused:

They have several similar fixtures you can find by looking for "Iron Oxide" (http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Search?keyword=iron%2Boxide&langId=-1&catalogId=10053) on the Home Depot site
or
Link to this specific Fixture (http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100642461)

I am glad to see the responses for option #1 as I was kinda wavering that direction...
besides the matching pendant and 3 light fixtures make some other fixture choices easier: ;)

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/584db787-42b2-4001-946c-ce89dd1a6e6.jpg|http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/2383a6d4-9ea8-4498-9a9b-9ccf6f2c868.jpg

An other little project I accomplished a while back... Moved some water pipes out of the middle of the room... I was tapping into them anyway and this made soffit framing much easier.

Before
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/Picture597.jpg

After
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/Picture495.jpg

I also love option # 1 and the 3-light style as well!!!!!!!

Jroyv, Thanks for the pm. Im going to have to check them out. Sounds like a great price for them. If you go to pottery barn they have a lamp with the same style head as those and they sell for about $80.00.

A very eclectic mix of progress but progress nothing the less...

Finished framing and soffits everywhere except the exercise area where all the Sheetrock and materials are piled.
Finished rough-in plumbing except shower drain.
Finished HVAC except one return in exercise area.
Wired Sub-Panel.

Thumbnail views below click for full view.

Big Pool Hall soffit
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0945.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0945.jpg)

Part of the joists above the Pool Hall area are 2x10s and part of it is 2x12 leaving a variance in height. Fixed by applying a ripped 1/2 ply and a 2x4 to the bottom of each.
How to change a 2x10 to a 2x12... Near...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0947.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0947.jpg)

How to change a 2x10 to a 2x12... Far...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0948.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0948.jpg)

Game Room Soffit #1
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0949.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0949.jpg)

Game Room Soffit #2 - I was tired of square soffits
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0950.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0950.jpg)

Sink & Toilet plumbing
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0951.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0951.jpg)

Shower Plumbing
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0952.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0952.jpg)

Main Lug Sub-Panel
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0953.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0953.jpg)

Rear Theater Vent - 6" Flex
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0954.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0954.jpg)

Front Theater Vent - 6" Flex
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0955.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0955.jpg)

Game Room Vent - 6" Flex
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0956.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0956.jpg)

Over-sized Theater Return
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0957.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0957.jpg)

Pool Hall 8" Supply - Screwed up here the register SHOULD have fit between the 16" on center joists... I forgot they were all doubled... so I had to drop it down and build yet an other soffit... :rolleyes:
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0958.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0958.jpg)


Lowered Bath Room ceiling with Vent - 6" Flex
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0960.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0960.jpg)

Lowered Office Ceiling - 6" Flex
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0961.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0961.jpg)

and finished walls in the game room & pool hall
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0962.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0962.jpg)

I am lucky compared to some... My ceiling height is such that all of my lowered ceilings and soffits have well over 7' of clearance.

Ready for Electrical and LV wiring!!! Yea! :D

Great progress!!! Keep it up!

Pool Hall 8" Supply - Screwed up here the register SHOULD have fit between the 16" on center joists... I forgot they were all doubled... so I had to drop it down and build yet an other soffit... :rolleyes:
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/th_IMG_0958.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/?action=view&current=IMG_0958.jpg)


might be too late.. but you could have turned the vent 90 degree's to go parallel with the joists :)


looks good though, i'm diggin the theme #1 too!

might be too late.. but you could have turned the vent 90 degree's to go parallel with the joists :)


looks good though, i'm diggin the theme #1 too!

Yea I thought of that but they don't have a longways 90 in that size... not at HD or Lowes anyway... :o

What did I get accomplished this weekend? Mostly spent money...
Ordered these from HD:

one 3 light fixture at the end of the hall in front of the the Equipment area...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/584db787-42b2-4001-946c-ce89dd1a6e6.jpg

2 pendants for over the pool table
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/2383a6d4-9ea8-4498-9a9b-9ccf6f2c868.jpg

And six of these for the theater
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/HDSPLIGHT.jpg

I bought these Insteon switches from Smarthome for lighting control.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/2476dbk.jpg|http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/2486dbk8.jpg

I also got my truck stuck in my back yard while dropping off materials... I should have taken some pics but I was too pissed at the time. Getting it out did provide a use for all the overly warped lumber cluttering up my basement.
:o

I managed to pull about half the electrical wiring for the entire basement... So the weekend wasn't a complete loss.

Installed 6 of the 18 cans and the ceiling boxes for the rest of the fixtures last night. Still pulling wire... :p

On the 422nd day he said "let there be light" and there was...

Front theater lights... I know we had discussed something with a bit more style but for only a buck each how could I resist...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0981.jpg

j/k... :D cheap temp fixtures are useful though... the two above the screen and the 4 mounted on the soffit above the seating area will be the single light iron oxide fixtures (see two posts above)
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0978.jpg

Pool Hall lights (1 Ceiling Fan, 6 cans, 2 pendants)
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0982.jpg

2" flex from equipment room to projector...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0977.jpg

Here is the lighting plan (you can see an example of the fixtures that will eventually be there in this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=16393595#post16393595)):

Theater: low profile ceiling fan & 6 of the single light iron oxide fixtures (2 by the screen, 2 on the sides of each soffit over the seating area.
Game Room: 2 - 5" Cans & 1 Ceiling Fan
Pool Hall: 2 iron oxide pendants over the pool table, 6 - 6" cans & a ceiling fan (double fan fixture)
Exercise Area: 3 - 6" cans
Bath Room: 6" can & shower light/vent combo
Bar Area: 2 - 5" cans
Hall: (by the theater) 2 - 5" cans & the 3 light iron oxide fixture
Hidden Office: 2- 6" cans
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/lights-1.jpg

Outlet placement plan the different color outlets are non standard placement, like for the projector and above the bar... still have to do my LV plan
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/electrical.jpg

Here are the ceiling fans I am using...
Theater:
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/1242681029.jpg

Pool Hall (Mine has a light off of the middle post):
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/ul6LsR2hYm3g06k4ETcHEMlwo1_500.jpg

If you haven't guessed yet I am a big fan of ceiling fans :D both for practical use and for style. So my question is since the plan is so open (you can see all three fans from one spot) would it be weird to choose yet a third style of ceiling fan for the game room in the middle???

If you haven't guessed yet I am a big fan of ceiling fans :D both for practical use and for style. So my question is since the plan is so open (you can see all three fans from one spot) would it be weird to choose yet a third style of ceiling fan for the game room in the middle???

The off-line vote is in favor of using a second "Roanoke" low-pro ceiling fan in the game room. Any more opinions be fore I pick up a second one???

For those who may be interested here are the other low-pro fans that were in consideration for the theater area.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/th_FPS7840VZ.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/?action=view&current=FPS7840VZ.jpg)|http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/th_F519MG_l.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/?action=view&current=F519MG_l.jpg)|http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/th_FPS7840SB2.jpg (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/?action=view&current=FPS7840SB2.jpg)

Cool fans huh... So why did I choose the "Roanoke"?
1. It was almost a 3rd the price and was of the style I was going for.
2. no remote... the fans and their lights will be wired independently and controlled by my Insteon switches. The remote features of the other fans would just be in the way.
3. The bottom of the light is only 11.6" from the ceiling. Perfect for projecting under.

It is Hampton Bay exclusive HD brand though I have never seen it on line and only one of the 4 Home Depots I frequent has it.

Will have to post my light control plan too...

So here are the basement lighting zones:

Dim-able Zones (Includes Ceiling Fan Lights where present)
1. Screen Lights
2. Theater Seating
3. Theater Bar
4. Theater Hall (includes area in front of rack)
5. Game Room
6. Pool Hall
7. Pool Table
8. Exercise Area
9. Hidden Office

Relay Non-Dimable Zones
1. Kitchen Light
2. Bath Light
3. Pool Hall Fan
4. Game Room Fan
5. Theater Fan

Non-Controlled Areas
Storage Areas, Equipment Room & Shower

Equipment
5 - Insteon Relay Switches - SwitchLinc Relay
6 - Insteon Dimmer Switches - SwitchLinc Dimmer
1 - Insteon High Wattage Dimmer Switch - SwitchLinc Dimmer
2 - Keypad Dimmers - KeypadLinc
1 - ISY-99i/IR PRO Home Automation Controller

Edit: I Just realized this thread rolled over to the second page: For anyone following there are some progress pics & my lighting plan at the end of page 1 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=16484990#post16484990)...

Progress Report:

All electrical is done, temp switches & outlets where needed.
LV speaker conduit & cable ran in the screen wall
Final framing complete including the deep frames for the DVD Case hidden doors for the EQ Room & Hidden Office, pocket door for bathroom


Screen Wall w/ spots for 2 subs & 3 speakers
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0985.jpg

Box for 7.2 speaker connections
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0986.jpg

Hidden Office - frame for DVD Case Door
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0987.jpg

Bathroom - Pocket Door
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0988.jpg

EQ Rack & frame for DVD Case Door
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_0991.jpg

Things to do before Sheetrock:

Run CAT 6 Cable
Run Rear Speaker Cables
Run Additional LV Conduit
Insulation
A few remaining nailers
& something else I am sure I am forgetting???

Joe,
Plans/work look good so far. I'll be adding the thread to my subscriptions as I'm curious to see how you end up finishing the door to the hidden office.

Joe,
Plans/work look good so far. I'll be adding the thread to my subscriptions as I'm curious to see how you end up finishing the door to the hidden office.


Me too... :D
What I have so far...
Both DVD Case doors will open into the rooms they hide and use standard (if beefy) hinges on the inside.
The Office Door will be about ~ 3' wide, 80" tall & ~7" deep.
EQ Room Door will be about ~ 2' wide, 80" tall & ~7" deep.

The only real trick is to leave enough space on the latch side to accommodate the swing of a 7" door. This will be covered by the trim.

I still haven't worked out what I am going to do for a latch mechanism.

More research to do...

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/theaterdoorsrack.jpg

Here is the SketchUp the two DVD Case Doors, the rack & you can just make out the bathroom door peeking out around the post.

Looks good, why the mix of 3/4" blue and orange flex tube?

have you put any though into a hammer arrestor in the shower area?

Looks good, why the mix of 3/4" blue and orange flex tube?

have you put any though into a hammer arrestor in the shower area?

No real reason for the blue/orange mix, it was just what they had... Kinda funny though HomeDepot had the blue and Lowes had the orange...

I had NOT put any thought towards using a hammer arrestor [quick google search] ahh... well results seem mixed on rather it is needed. Where would it install?

I have a question for any Dish Network users out there...

I currently have a VIP 622 HD DuoDVR Receiver and a regular HD Receiver...

When my theater is done I would like to replace the regular HD Receiver with a second DuoDVR (the DuoDVR VIP 722 I believe). The goal here is to distribute the signal from both DVRs to the other TVs in the house (like I do now with the 622). I believe they can broadcast on channels 69 & 70??? I understand the limitations SD & only two secondary remotes.

So given that the questions are:

Can I run 2 DuoDVRs from one sat?
If so can I distribute the signals from both DVRs through coax to other TVs in the house? One on channel 69 & one on 70?

Answers:

Can I run 2 DuoDVRs from one sat? Yes
If so can I distribute the signals from both DVRs through coax to other TVs in the house? Yes
One on channel 69 & one on 70? Yes


I had a chat with Dish Network support and and they said this would work as I hoped with the obvious caveat that the distribution to the other TVs would be in SD. For my situation the other down side is only 2 "TV2" remotes for the other 5 TVs and having to have the "correct TV2" remote for the DVR we want to watch. Both workable in our situation. :cool:

Things to do before Sheetrock [Update]:


Run CAT 6 Cable
Run Rear Speaker Cables
Run Additional LV Conduit
Insulation
A few remaining nailers
& something else I am sure I am forgetting???


Time for Insulation!!! The something else I am missing was removing all the old lights... Unless there is some other something else??? :rolleyes:

This is whats left of a 1000' of 14-2... and I still need to add lights and outlets to to the exercise area. This is in addition to 250' of 14-3 and about 150' of 12-2...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1244208031.jpg

"Things to do before Sheetrock"

I don't know why this is such a big deal to me but hanging rock on the walls just seams like a big milestone for this project. May be its because that's when all of the work really begins to take shape.

Insulation is about half way done with the entire theater area done.
Nailers - almost completely done. Only a couple spots left.

On a side note my wife walked into the room the other night as I was perusing AVS and said "Are you looking at your Home Theater Porn site again?"

Wives... they never understand... though in this case she might be closer to the truth than we would like to admit. ;)

Congrats on the milstone... this was something that I really look forward to and then it drained me!!! Have you hung sheet rock before?

I few tips from my recent attempt
1. Take your time and cut sheet 1/4" shorter than you think. Unlike wood, you can't easily sneak up on a cut, it is hard to take a 1/4" off. And you can't force fit like wood, if you have to hit it, it doesn't fit... it will crumble.

2. 4" pot light have a much tighter tolerance than 6" lights... my holes for the 4" are too big and I am struggling with finding trim rings to hide the stuff.

3. Don't get too stressed, you can fix ALOT with mud.

4. ENJOY THIS... you only do it once... it is work, but at the end it is oh so rewarding...

Can't wait to see pictures and see everything take shape!

Joe V,

This is going to be a great space - Love the arches! Please keep these excellent photos coming.

Congrats on the milstone... this was something that I really look forward to and then it drained me!!! Have you hung sheet rock before?

I few tips from my recent attempt
<SNIP>

Can't wait to see pictures and see everything take shape!

Thanks for the comments & tips. It's been a couple years but yes I have hung rock before In fact, I have in my life, worked a variety of remodeling/construction jobs. Despite this there have been some parts of this build that I have agonized/obsessed over, not because they were necessarily difficult but I had just never done them before, or if I had they were at the Peon level where you were told "put this in here." :)


Joe V,

This is going to be a great space - Love the arches! Please keep these excellent photos coming.

Thanks Cuz,

I hope the arches come out looking half as good as they do in my head... :p
If only my paying work would stop interfering with my build work I could get more done and post more photos... 3... 2... 1... Patches applied & server rebooted.... I'm off to work on my basement :)

Ready for Sheetrock!!!

Stuffed the rest of the insulation last night and put up the rest of my nailers. Also because the Hidden Office area is fairly small I added some built-ins/recesses for my file cabinet and my gun safe. They will sit flush with the wall and extend into the storage area behind them.

Maybe I can entice a few friends into being a Sheetrock crew for the weekend. :)

I'll snap some pics tonight.

Damn it's slow going hanging rock by my self... It's been a while (a long while) I'm sure I'll hit my stride sooner or later. About the time I get done I think. :D

Yeah, I think if I was doing any major project, I would budget for having a sheetrock crew come in and get er done. Professionals are soooo much faster doing that. Not terribly complicated, but such finesse involved.

Have fun. :p

Yea I remember back a 10 or so years I helped add a second story to an office building. About 2200 sqft of floorspace, I don't remember exactly how much rock but it included 12 offices so several interior partitions. The crew hanging the rock was in and out in a single day!!!

I still have a few acquaintances in the business so I may bite the bullet and get a quote. :)

I still have a few acquaintances in the business so I may bite the bullet and get a quote. :)

Do it and move on to more important (and fun) parts of the project. You have my approval. :D

Do it and move on to more important (and fun) parts of the project. You have my approval. :D

You lucky bast*rd, jroyv - I'll never get jp's approval now! :cool:

You lucky bast*rd, jroyv - I'll never get jp's approval now! :cool:

The sarcasm is deafening. :cool:

You lucky bast*rd, jroyv - I'll never get jp's approval now! :cool:

Maybe if you send him some COLD beer :cool:

With jp's approval I am getting quotes on drywall hang and finish work. This will free me to work on the bathroom and other projects as they do all the "hard work". I'll be painting before you know it. :D

Maybe if you send him some COLD beer :cool:

With jp's approval I am getting quotes on drywall hang and finish work. This will free me to work on the bathroom and other projects as they do all the "hard work". I'll be painting before you know it. :D


Great decision... !!!!

No posts since the 22nd of June... Gasp... what must my loyal readers be thinking? :)
But things are getting done... Progress is being made.

Going back to the 24th of June
So this is pretty cool... A long time friend and client of my wife was working on an outdoor-project in my area, he does remodeling work too but his specialty is drywall finishing... Any way he said he would help hang my drywall on the days it is to wet to work on his big project... The best part is he is only charging me for the his helpers time!

Fast-Forward through an abnormally WET two weeks for late June :D and we now have:

Almost all the drywall hung.
The Exercise Area (where all the drywall was sitting) is framed, wired & insulated.

Tomorrow my "little helpers" as my daughter calls them, hopefully not to their face, will hang the rock in the exercise area and start mudding and tapping...

I'll try to post some pics tonight... [Edit: (or some time in the next couple days)] :)

The screen wall is still missing a few panels and there is a lot of finish work left to do but here are the promised pics with the drywall hung. better late than never... :p

Pool Hall looking towards the windows
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1005.jpg

pool hall looking towards entry and exercise area - note the monolithic soffit
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1021.jpg

View of bar at the back of the theater and the kitchen nook
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1007.jpg

View of the back bar looking into the theater
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1009.jpg

Theater entry
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1010.jpg

Theater view from back bar
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1011.jpg

Theater view from entry - note rack location straight down the hall.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1013.jpg

Theater view from riser location
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1014.jpg

Theater view from screen wall looking back - note the cubby for the projector
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1015.jpg

Want more pics? there are several unposted pics in my photobucket album... (http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/)

Wow! I'm in Arch heaven.. LOVE IT!

Joe,

Looking good - nice layout, arches area nice touch.

I'm sure you have it listed - but I will ask anyway; what are the theater dimensions?

Joe,

Looking good - nice layout, arches area nice touch.

I'm sure you have it listed - but I will ask anyway; what are the theater dimensions?

What? I thought size didn't matter??? :D

At the screen wall the HT Room is 11'-5" wide wall to wall, 10' wide between the columns supporting the arches. It expands to ~14' wall to wall to accommodate the hall down one side.
It is 18' deep with 8'-9" ceilings and is partially open at the back...

Its a bit hard to explain so I will add a pic...

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/vtht-markup.jpg

Thanks,

Very similar to my width and depth; except that you have the added advantage of higher ceilings which makes the 2nd row riser easier to pull off..

Got the basin and the backerboard for the shower installed. I'm taking a trip soon so there won't be much progress for a while. I posted a thread in the Theater Item section asking if there are any good places along my route to try out some home theater seating. If you have any suggestions please post them in this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1163951):

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1163951

Here is a pic of the basin, I'll post some pics with the backerboard up soon :)

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1018.jpg

Here are the pics with the DensGuard installed, a tile backer approved for use in wet areas - like a shower:
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1022.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1023.jpg

still have to tape the seams and caulk the edges.

What is the archway in your doorways? It that a product that you buy or did you make that? Like that look, but unsure how to make it. Thanks!

What is the archway in your doorways? It that a product that you buy or did you make that? Like that look, but unsure how to make it. Thanks!

The product I used was called Easy-Arch: http://www.easy-arch.com/

I used their internet dealer: http://www.archwaypro.com/ but you can search and see if they have any local dealers in your area.

Drywall is finished & ceilings are textured...

So without further adieu the progress pics.. (sorry no wood pile) ;)

Please forgive the mess and the virtual carpet of drywall dust...

View of the bar at the back of the theater.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1030.jpg

Theater from back of the theater.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1031.jpg

Theater View from the entry... straight down the hall is the Rack Location
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1033.jpg

theater from the screen looking back
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1034.jpg

Game room from theater entry
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1032.jpg

Game Room from pool hall
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1029.jpg

pool hall
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1027.jpg

exercise area
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1028.jpg

Some major cleaning in store for the weekend & maybe slapping up some primer... More later.

That's looking sweet. I'm digging those arches.

This will be an awesome space, I've really enjoyed following along. Can't wait to see it done. Just remember the Golden Rule, once you hang the projector and screen all work comes to a screeching halt!

Joe.

Gotta love those arches - really looking sweet!
Throwing up a seal coat of primer will really help knock down ongoing dust issues.

Now you're in high gear - Congrats!

Thanks for the positive comments everyone...

Just remember the Golden Rule, once you hang the projector and screen all work comes to a screeching halt!

Are you kidding??? I'm not even going to buy the projector until everything else is done! :D

Joe.

Gotta love those arches - really looking sweet!
Throwing up a seal coat of primer will really help knock down ongoing dust issues.

Now you're in high gear - Congrats!

That is, hopefully, the goal for the weekend... A thorough cleaning and then primer the hell out of the entire basement!

Great stuff! You are making me want an arch somewhere in my build!

Hey I'm lovin' the thread. Keep up the great work.

Thanks guys... I'm dreading cleaning up all that drywall dust in the morning but I think getting some paint on the walls will be worth it.

simply awesome.

Thanks for the comments :o

I didn't get to devote both my weekend days to the build but I did get it cleaned up pretty good. It may not seem like much but it took quite the effort.

4 sweepings
2 passes with the shopvac &
3 passes with a rented floor cleaner... <<- This worked really well.

Before
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1033.jpg

After
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_10362.jpg

You may have noticed the paint samples for the theater.
They are Sherwin-Williams colors...
Black Bean - a really dark brown for the screen-wall & ceiling.
Toasty - a light brown/beige color for the side walls
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1037.jpg

Still deciding on the colors... I might change my mind completely... or the wife might "suggest" other colors :p
I've also been considering a suede finish like the bottom half of the walls in hokie's theater:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3051/2648059820_c353d76b62_b.jpg

Joe V,

I understand about the drywall cleanup. I'll bet I swept and vacuumed a dozen times in the following weeks.

How about the rented floor cleaner - what did you use? I am thinking of renting one before I have my carpet installed. Was it a hard surface cleaner, or did you simply "adapt" one of the rented carpet cleaner units ???

As for your first shot with paint:
>> Black Bean - a really dark brown for the screen-wall & ceiling.
>> Toasty - a light brown/beige color for the side walls
Those look encouraging

How about the rented floor cleaner - what did you use? I am thinking of renting one before I have my carpet installed. Was it a hard surface cleaner, or did you simply "adapt" one of the rented carpet cleaner units ???


I rented this "Carpet Cleaner" from home depot.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/carpet_cleaner.jpg

I used a just mild concrete and tile cleaner so I didn't wreck the unit but it worked really good. No more floating dust... There are still a few spots I'll need to scrape with a good cleaner/etcher before I can lay tile but the results would be fine for laying carpet over it.

JoeV,

Thanks for confirming. That is exactly what I had in mind. I have some carpets upstairs that are due for cleaning. I'll rent one of these, then finish up in the basement.

Are you planning on putting the tile straight on the concrete?!?

Are you planning on putting the tile straight on the concrete?!?

Nah
Current plan is to use Schluter-DITRA but it uses thin-set for adhesion to the concrete and can cause some nasty problems if it doesn't adhere well hence a thorough cleaning is still needed.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/ss_prod_ditra_r_rdax_290x193_80.jpg

I have done a few direct to concrete tile jobs w/o problems... just depends on what you have to work with. In this case it is a fairly new house that still has some settling to do... besides it's mine :)

JoeV,

Thanks for confirming. That is exactly what I had in mind. I have some carpets upstairs that are due for cleaning. I'll rent one of these, then finish up in the basement.

I was just going to say make sure and do your carpets first but it looks like that is your plan. I will say this thing operated about 10 times better than any of those rugdoctor type machines I've rented in the past. $25 a day in my area.

Good call on the Ditra, I have seen too many people try to tile straight on cement :(

We used the Schulter membrane in our walk-in shower. Great stuff if installed properly!

B

Primed!!!

One day with a borrowed paid sprayer and the entire basement is Primed!
Except the little equipment/rack room... ran out of primer. My 5yr old daughter backrolled for me, up till about 5-6 feet anyway. :D
Now I have to go get her cleaned up before her mother sees her. :o

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1038.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1040.jpg

On the wife's "recommendation" I changed the colors slightly... the others were "to dark"...


http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1041.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1042.jpg

The theater colors shown above are Sherwin Williams brand:

SW Café Carmel 7156
SW Turkish Coffee 6076

The game room & pool hall will be:
SW Banana Cream 6673

Edit: Oh yea the Progress Report: Today I sprayed a Valspar "Ceiling White" on all the ceilings except the theater. Patched some spots that needed it and sanded the primer smooth where needed. Also picked up, what I hope will be all the paint for the job...

Joe,

Looking good - Looking forward to photos with your painting completed!
I started painting my bar area in a bold color last night, and am having 2nd thoughts, thinking more about a lighter shade similar to one of those you have shown.

Also sent you a PM

Painting update: still a ways to go but but you can get an idea of the colors

Banana Cream for the pool hall and game room you can see some of the cutting in around the windows.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1043.jpg

Theater from riser - have to cut in around the edges of the screen wall
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1044.jpg

Theater from Rear Bar
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1045.jpg

Theater from entry
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1046.jpg

Rear of theater
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1047.jpg

You can see the bottom of the soffits painted the same as the ceilings.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1048.jpg

Joe,

Looking good! I assume you and your wife are in harmony with your color choices.
I wish I could say the same :-)

She wasn't totally thrilled with "how dark" the theater colors were originally so I compromised by going a few shades lighter with both. This is what you see above. Now that she has seen them up she likes the look.

With most of the rest of the basement being the yellow color she doesn't mind letting me have my way in the theater. :o

Joe,

That's interesting because; In my case my wife is pushing me for a much darker color in the theater room (I guess I am lucky in that regard), and a less boring color in the Billiard room.. Seems we have opposites..

It's really starting to look good in there. Too good - You guys and your first rate work are keeping me from starting my own thread.
I think there needs to be another forum catergory here for "Poorly Designed and Poorly Constructed Theatre Builds"

It's really starting to look good in there. Too good - You guys and your first rate work are keeping me from starting my own thread.
I think there needs to be another forum catergory here for "Poorly Designed and Poorly Constructed Theatre Builds"

It's all relative Shane... there are some on these boards that would see my little theater attempt as poorly designed & poorly conceived. No double drywall & green glue... :p ... Limited sound isolation, inexpensive speakers & bar-seating outside of the sound envelope.

That said my friends and I had a blast for years with a couple old but comfy, 70s reject couches and some game consoles surrounded by bare concrete in an unfinished basement. ... that was back in the bachelor years :o

Hell, I am just trying to reproduce the same environment in a way that meets the WAF... The ultimate goal is still just to have a place for "the guys" to hang out & do some gaming or watch some movies...

Guess what I am really trying to say is post it anyway... I've learned more from some of the so called "modest builds" on this forum than I have from the "over the top, I would never be able to afford that in a million years, if god had a home theater this is what it would look like" threads... (Not that I don't like to look at those too... :D )

Where did you purchase that orange and blue tubing for your speaker wire and other cabling?

I think there needs to be another forum catergory here for "Poorly Designed and Poorly Constructed Theatre Builds"

My build thread would definitely be on that list if it existed. I say go for it - there are enough of us clueless pretenders that you don't have to worry. Heck, technically speaking my thread stopped being a build thread over a month ago, since there hasn't been any actual "building" since then, if not longer.

Of course, I count working on my build thread itself as working, so at least I have that going for me. Which is nice.

Where did you purchase that orange and blue tubing for your speaker wire and other cabling?


The 3/4" tubing you can get at Home Depot and Lowes... The larger 2" tubing like I have going to my projector I got at smarthome...

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1045.jpg

Do the large arches in the theater stand out enough?

I am considering trying one of those faux finishing techniques on just the columns and arches in the theater to add some depth/detail... Probably sponging on the darker Turkish Coffee (with the SW illusions Faux Finishing Glaze) over the Cafe Carmel color that is already there.

Doesn't look too hard... Worth trying or should I leave well enough alone?

Do I lose my man card asking about Faux Finishing Techniques? :o

Do the large arches in the theater stand out enough?

I am considering trying one of those faux finishing techniques on just the columns and arches in the theater to add some depth/detail... Probably sponging on the darker Turkish Coffee (with the SW illusions Faux Finishing Glaze) over the Cafe Carmel color that is already there.

Doesn't look too hard... Worth trying or should I leave well enough alone?

Do I lose my man card asking about Faux Finishing Techniques? :o

I did exactly this in my office (ragged glaze on top of a taupe color to get a darker faux finish). The result is awesome, but you definitely should start in an inconspicuous place until you get your "random pattern" technique down. It isn't hard - "load" rag in the glaze, keep a consistent "random pattern", have an extra "dry" rag to pull off excess glaze from the wall in places, and you'll look like an expert.

I personally would flip your suggestion - doing the faux finish between the columns instead. This would complement the darker screenwall.

Joe,

Don't worry your man-card is OK (with me), despite the Faux-Finish inquiry.
I was thinking the same thing for my Spanish Tile color...

Thanks to some help from the wife and daughter we have PAINT! Forgive the mess.

Pool Hall
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1050.jpg

Game Room entry from pool hall..
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1049.jpg

In the Game Room looking at the rear bar and Kit...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1051.jpg

Theater entry from Game Room...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1053.jpg

Theater straight shot..
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1055.jpg

Theater from entry... rack location down the hall...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1056.jpg

back of theater
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1057.jpg

need to clean my camera lens :o

Joe,

Looking great. That's a bunch of painting, bet your glad it's done.
So on the flooring, have you selected your carpet yet..?

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1057.jpg



This looks like CGI due to the lighting!

Congrats on the progress!!

Yes I am really building a "Virtual Theater" :D

Haven't picked a carpet yet... Thinking something like this:

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/carpet1.jpg
or this
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/P1020932.jpg

but in earth tones.... I might not do a pattern at all though... In other words no I most definitely have not picked out my carpet yet. :o

I did put up my double fan ceiling fan last night and the Tuscan Bronze Trim on one of my 5" cans... I'll have to say the trim looks really good. Can't wait to get the rest of the fixtures up.

Installed a few more fixtures tonight...

Here are pics of the Double Fan, the Tuscan Bronze trim for the 6 5" cans & the 2 of the 6 Iron oxide fixtures going in the theater.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1058.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1060.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1063.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1065.jpg

Still to go 2 more ceiling fans, 4 more single light iron oxide fixtures, one triple light iron oxide fixture & trim for 13 6" cans.

You're killing me with your light selections! I love that fan and wanted to put it in my office but the soffits are just a little too close. Your theater is really coming together nicely, great job!

I have to say though my favorite's are the exposed compact fluorescents by the screen wall. Really gives it a nice "industrial" look. 8-)

Joe,

Really like the bronze and iron oxide fixtures, and the ceiling color

As for that fan - Whoa!!
Will your seating include seat belts, and air sickness bags in the seat pocket..?

You're killing me with your light selections! I love that fan and wanted to put it in my office but the soffits are just a little too close. Your theater is really coming together nicely, great job!

I have to say though my favorite's are the exposed compact fluorescents by the screen wall. Really gives it a nice "industrial" look. 8-)

and they were only a buck each... eventually I might have to replace them with more of those iron oxide fixtures though. :) My lighting selections were based only partially on looks, when I bought them all the Iron Oxide fixtures were on sale. The single light fixtures in the pic were only $19 each!

Joe,

Really like the bronze and iron oxide fixtures, and the ceiling color

As for that fan - Whoa!!
Will your seating include seat belts, and air sickness bags in the seat pocket..?

The double fan is in the pool hall... Though I will have a low-profile fan in the theater too... :) I too like the iron oxide fixtures, I was a bit worried they would be like a small "spot light" but the little GU 10 bulbs in them light up the whole glass part of the fixture so they look like little sconces. My one gripe is it's a pain in the ass to get the #^$*% bulbs in the fixtures. They even give you this funky suction-cup thing to hold the bulb as you try to align the two prongs on the back of the bulb in to the openings at the back of the socket and then twist them into place.

No comments about how many ___ it takes to screw in a light bulb please. :D

All my fixtures are up !

Pool Hall Lights
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1066.jpg

Game Room Fan
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1067.jpg

Theater Facing Front
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1068.jpg

Theater from entry
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1069.jpg

Lights & Fan over seating area
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1077.jpg

ANd NOw I am taking a day off to go do same gaming with the guys... So don't give me any crap I earned it! ;)

Killed a bunch of Terrorist in Rainbow 6 Vegas 2 and a few Zombies in Left 4 Dead on my day off. It was fun but I can't wait until I'm doin some "near life size gaming" when my theater is "finished"!!! ;)

Updated my "To Do" list in the first post... For some reason it keeps getting longer as I keep finding more & more things I need to do....

To Do:
Install Outlets & Wire Insteon Switches
Term all LV wiring...
Build Stage & Riser
Install DryCore In carpeted areas
Tile Floors, Shower & Wall Locations
Tile Counters for Bar and Kit
Hang Doors
Build and Fit two DVD Case Hidden-Doors
Build Built-in Bookcase for the Pool Hall
Install Cabinets for Kit and Bathroom - Ordered
Pick-out Carpet
Pick-out & buy seating
Trim
Have Carpet Installed
Buy Projector & Screen
Hang Screen and Projector
Get new receiver and universal remote
Wire all the gear correctly ;)
Have fun with new area!
Build new HTPC

Very nice! I like that you used lights other then just cans for down light in the theater- different and nice to see.

thanks mmeister,

i followed your concrete counter build with interest and have considered using them in my build but think I will stick with granite or marble tile for my counters. I think the concrete would be too modern for the look I am going for in my build. I am going to have to try it some time though. :)

[QUOTE=jroyv;17139838]Killed a bunch of Terrorist in Rainbow 6 Vegas 2 and a few Zombies in Left 4 Dead on my day off. It was fun but I can't wait until I'm doin some "near life size gaming" when my theater is "finished"!!! ;)


Joe,
Do ever play COD4 or 5? We could hook up some night and game.

Let me know!

Joe,
Do ever play COD4 or 5? We could hook up some night and game.

Let me know!

I play a little COD: World at War, is that 5? I don't game near as much since I started this build, most of my spare time is spent down in the basement. :( Modern Warfare 2 will probably be out by the time I finish my build, I am looking forward to that.

360/PS3 gamer tag is: jroyv

I hear you. Our house project took me way offline. Can't wait for MW2. I will send a friend invite anyway and we can do some damage on MW2. It looks really awesome!!

Joe,
You have done a fantastic job in not only building your theater but organizing and planning your build.

Looking back at your first page, I see a lot of similarities with what i wish to do. I had started a thread months ago and it died because I had to be honest with myself and I was just not ready yet. I am finally prepared to "revive" it (or most likely build a new one) but you actually make me nervous because mine is going to be an embarrassment to yours! I just hope I can be half as organized as you. I just learned sketch up but it looks like you are a pro.

I've read your entire thread and of course there had been hiccups along the way. What single most important piece of advice do you have for someone starting a similar project to yours?

Looking forward to seeing the finished product. You give me hope.... and anxiety at the same time!

I actually only have a couple hours in using sketchup, definitely not a pro, believe it or not the tutorial helps quite a bit. :p

Need some answers/opinions!

I'm painting my vent covers in this hammered bronze color (needs an other coat yet.)
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1085.jpg

Question 1: should I try painting the borders & grills for my in-walls the same color???
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1086.jpg

There will be 4 in all, got the holes cut already. Nothing like cutting holes in your newly painted drywall... :eek:
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1087.jpg

Question 2: I'm using 3/4" OSB for the top of my riser... Should I do 2 layers or is 3/4 of an inch thick enough when wrapping the lip with carpet?
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1089.jpg

Progress Report: Last weekend was mostly non-pick-worthy stuff. Wiring outlets, Insteon switches, fishing wire for an additional outlet.... forgot to put an outlet Under the counter for the mini-fridge. :o

Hope to have my riser & stage done this weekend... and maybe depending on the answers I get, all the registers & in-wall speakers painted too.

Question 2: I'm using 3/4" OSB for the top of my riser... Should I do 2 layers or is 3/4 of an inch thick enough when wrapping the lip with carpet?
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1089.jpg

I think that may be the first handicap accessible riser I've seen!

Well, that board looked like a ramp at first glance anyway ... :o

Question 2: I'm using 3/4" OSB for the top of my riser... Should I do 2 layers or is 3/4 of an inch thick enough when wrapping the lip with carpet?

I would think that 3/4" should be enough, but don't just accept my opinion... How much of a lip are you leaving? If it is around an inch, I can't see why you would need more thickness.

Finished the riser & stage with 1 layer of 3/4" osb, can add an other if needed. Painted and installed in-wall speakers along with the register-covers.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1253491165.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1253491056.jpg

sorry for the bad iPhone pics.

Hey,

Can you give some more details on your wiring/lighting plans? Particularly, what Insteon solution are you using? I saw it in your to-do list...

Thanks!

Little tip from famous editor, Perry White:

http://i471.photobucket.com/albums/rr79/hanesian/Perry-White.gif


When you post a picture that contains a caption about something - like, I dunno, say that you finally finished a riser for example - it might help to actually SHOW the thing the caption mentions! ;)


Riser, riser, riser .....

:p

Joe,

Funny; that is also on my list tonight: I'm using the Rust Oleum hammered antique bronze to paint some HVAC vents.

As for your speaker grills - IMO - I would paint them a more neutral color; so not to draw extra attention to them, perhaps the same color as the walls...

Oops I was too late - although I must admit - the painted speaker panels look OK

Oops I was too late - although I must admit - the painted speaker panels look OK

I considered trying to blend them with the walls but I kinda like how they turn out.... and I thought it would be harder to paint them with latex paint... :o



Riser, riser, riser .....

:p

OK, OK, OK.... I was going to clean up first but just for you: :D

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1319.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1320.jpg

Tankyou vedymooch.

http://i471.photobucket.com/albums/rr79/hanesian/thumbnail-28.jpg

Hey,

Can you give some more details on your wiring/lighting plans? Particularly, what Insteon solution are you using? I saw it in your to-do list...

Thanks!


Sorry missed this before:
Here are the basement lighting zones though I will probably add the eq room to my non-dim-able zones.

Dim-able Zones (Includes Ceiling Fan Lights where present)

1. Screen Lights
2. Theater Seating
3. Theater Bar
4. Theater Hall (includes area in front of rack)
5. Game Room
6. Pool Hall
7. Pool Table
8. Exercise Area
9. Hidden Office

Relay Non-Dimable Zones

1. Kitchen Light
2. Bath Light
3. Pool Hall Fan
4. Game Room Fan
5. Theater Fan

Non-Controlled Areas

Storage Areas, Equipment Room & Shower

Equipment

5 - Insteon Relay Switches - SwitchLinc Relay
6 - Insteon Dimmer Switches - SwitchLinc Dimmer
1 - Insteon High Wattage Dimmer Switch - SwitchLinc Dimmer
2 - Keypad Dimmers - KeypadLinc
1 - ISY-99i/IR PRO Home Automation Controller

& my post with my electrical/lighting plan can be found HERE (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=16484990#post16484990)

A fairly unproductive weekend... Started Saturday with the ~1 hr project of fixing the kids toilet. Just replacing the fill valve and tank drain.... and during the very last step I crack the $%*# tank. Not having a local option for a replacement tank I had to buy a whole new toilet and set it.... Not what I had planed... and the worse part is I know better than to over tighten those bolts! :mad:

What I did get done was to dricore the theater area (still need to do the hidden office) & do some touch-up painting.

Didn't make a lot of progress this weekend... About killed my truck and my back bringing this down to the basement...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1254749136.jpg

A little over 600 sqft of 18" Travertine... that's 270 tiles... weighing in at ~ 16 lbs per tile!!! 4320 lbs :o

Carried that down on Saturday... Sunday I was going to prep my floors for tile work but was having a hard time moving my 10' sheets of drywall into the storage room... That's a lot easier before the walls are finished :)

So instead I started to hang the drywall on the storage room walls... Needed to be done anyway... Hope to finish the drywall, get my shelves up and get the floors prepped this week ... so I can start tile work over my 4 day weekend.

Didn't make a lot of progress this weekend... About killed my truck and my back bringing this down to the basement...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1254749136.jpg

A little over 600 sqft of 18" Travertine... that's 270 tiles... weighing in at ~ 16 lbs per tile!!! 4320 lbs :o

Carried that down on Saturday... Sunday I was going to prep my floors for tile work but was having a hard time moving my 10' sheets of drywall into the storage room... That's a lot easier before the walls are finished :)

So instead I started to hang the drywall on the storage room walls... Needed to be done anyway... Hope to finish the drywall, get my shelves up and get the floors prepped this week ... so I can start tile work over my 4 day weekend.


I remember your pain very well. I did the same thing with 12" x 12" slate tiles... Icey Hot and a heating pad help. :) Can't wait to see the finished pictures, I love travertine. It also makes for a unique driving experience doesn't it.

Joe,

My back is aching for you - take it slow and easy, and this too shall pass!

Thanks guys.... feeling better today. I got most of the storage area drywalled, if I can get the floors cleaned on thursday and friday after work I should be laying tile this weekend.

Joe,

Good luck on setting the tile, I hope you have a good set of knee pads. I started with a cheap pair and after an hour I went back to the store and bought a nicer pair. Somethings are just worth a little extra money the first time.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1255482980.jpg

Progress.... Slow and steady wins the race right???? A little over half way done with ~300 sqft of travertine tile down... of course then I have to come back and grout it all...

Oh and Thanks Mike!!! ... I remembered your comment about the knee-pads and picked some up while I was picking up the thinset... Probably the only reason I am not crippled after three days of laying tile...

Joe,

Looking good my man! I like the staggered layout pattern...

Tile looks good. Are you going with a brown grout with that tile? Travertine looks sweet after the grout is done. We had our kitchen backsplash done and it looked night and day different from the tile by itself and then with the grout. Anyway, nice job.

The travertine definitely looks great. I am with cuzed2 on the staggered look. Very nice.

Glad the knee pads helped! That looks awesome, I wish I had thought about doing the staggered joints for the slate I put down. Why is it I always find better ways to do something weeks or months after I finish a project?

One other tip (not sure it will apply to the Travertine), when it comes time to grout pick up a grout bag. If travertine is like slate (pourous) it'll be easier to bag the grout and pipe it right into the joint versus spreading it across the tile and cleaning it all off later. With the slate there was many layers and levels to the tile, so the grout was a pain to clean out of the cracks and levels.

Tile looks good. Are you going with a brown grout with that tile? Travertine looks sweet after the grout is done. We had our kitchen backsplash done and it looked night and day different from the tile by itself and then with the grout. Anyway, nice job.

Thanks jp... The current plan is to do a brown grout close to the darker parts of the Travertine.

Glad the knee pads helped! That looks awesome, I wish I had thought about doing the staggered joints for the slate I put down. Why is it I always find better ways to do something weeks or months after I finish a project?

One other tip (not sure it will apply to the Travertine), when it comes time to grout pick up a grout bag. If travertine is like slate (pourous) it'll be easier to bag the grout and pipe it right into the joint versus spreading it across the tile and cleaning it all off later. With the slate there was many layers and levels to the tile, so the grout was a pain to clean out of the cracks and levels.

I like the brick pattern too. My dad was trying to get me to do the entire room on a 45... but I didn't have the patience for it. He does remodeling work for a living including custom tile work... I may see if I can get him to come help me finish this weekend. :o

The Travertine I have is what they call "Honed & Filled" so the the surface inconsistencies have leveled out to a smooth, but not slick surface.

So its about time I started looking at equipment...

Most of it I already have but the big ticket items of Projector, Sub, Receiver & Seating are still up for debate.
For the AVR I posted one of those dreaded what receiver should I buy threads (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17361913#post17361913) over in the Audio Area...
My Projected Projector is the Panasonic PT-AE4000 :p
For my Seating I am looking at 2 rows of either Berkline 13175s or 12006s or one row and a nice couch for the second ... Undecided here...
Sub - I might just go with an Infinity PS212... the stats are good and it looks like a good deal.

And some day soon I'll have to start looking at carpet :D

Joe,

I am in the middle of Berkline Seat shopping as we speak.
In fact; I'm just starting to sort out the pros and cons of the various Berkline model numbers, and what will work best for me. Even got a chance to sit in a few of their models at a local retailer. PM me if you have any ??'s

Joe,

I am in the middle of Berkline Seat shopping as we speak.
In fact; I'm just starting to sort out the pros and cons of the various Berkline model numbers, and what will work best for me. Even got a chance to sit in a few of their models at a local retailer. PM me if you have any ??'s

Thanks Cuz,

I am mostly looking at the 13175s & 12006s because of the width but I am leaning towards only doing one row of 3 with a couch in the second row.

Update: The rest of the tile is done, make that set, still need to grout, and this does not include the bathroom. Well done except one short row so I can get out of the basement... :o
Feels like I got a lot done this weekend anyway. Took me two weekends to lay ~600 sqft of tile.

Joe,

Congrats on finishing phase 1 of the tile install - that's got to feel good to be behind you!!

AS for the Berks; last week I found a local retailer with some of the 12000 models to sit in.

The 12000s felt very comfortable to me, and the 2nd set he had was 12002, also very comfortable and more firm.

Joe,

Congrats on finishing phase 1 of the tile install - that's got to feel good to be behind you!!

AS for the Berks; last week I found a local retailer with some of the 12000 models to sit in.

The 12000s felt very comfortable to me, and the 2nd set he had was 12002, also very comfortable and more firm.

I was able to sit in several on my trip a while back. The wife liked the 13175 and we both seemed to like the styles with the split backs.

Hence our Berkline short list:

12006
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/152243316_650_12006-traverse-2-2-a.jpg

13175
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/720485866_650_13175_tangiers-2-4.jpg

Though I also like these non-Berkline seats for an older style look:

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/Holly.jpg
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT-Stuff/tri_color.jpg

Joe,

From my limited experience; I think you will be happy going with either of the Berkline choices. I assume you will go motorized - to get the most adjustability.

That 3d photo is very interesting (the one with the orange juice glasses). A real cool/retro look - even if a bit short in the backrest department...

Good Luck deciding

I like the look of two seat brown combo above but it would reduce my total number of seats leaving me with 4 seats or 5 if I can find a 3 seat option to go with it....

-----

Money is starting to flow like water.... I've been dreading & looking forward to this time in the build... The big money items are on the way... I already doubled my total expenditures up to this point by paying for the drywall help & tile last month... Picked up a Denon AVR-790 yesterday... Soon the projector, carpet, seats, sub, doors & trim...

Grout is done and the floors are looking pretty good...

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1256496343.jpg

Now I am starting on my bathroom, counter-tops, and Kitchenette area.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1256496374.jpg

Joe V,

The grouted floor looks great! Same style/color tile on the countertop and kitchenette..?

I've considered using the same tile but I think I'll go for something a little darker for the counters.

That floor is GORGEOUS!!

Thanks Mike, We worked hard on it :) Hope to finish laying the bathroom tiles, counter and trim tiles this weekend... Oh & Craig we ended up going with a Green & Black granite tile for the counters... I'll snap some pics when I get it down.

I'm back on the fence regarding the projector.... The Epson Home Cinema 8100 vs the Panasonic PT-AE4000U... What I missed before on the 8100 was the 4000 hr lamp life in normal and econo modes. Also bulbs for the Epson are like $275 bulbs for the panny are $400. So for me it lays out like this:

Panasonic Pros:
Better Picture
Better Black Levels
Game Mode

Epson Pros
Brighter
$500 cheaper
bulbs that last twice as long and are cheaper.

Joe,

Are you going scope screen or 16:9?
If scope - doesn't the Panny offer add'l advantages > like zoom memory

I'm going with a 16x9 screen I hope to do a lot of gaming on it... :)
Tough choice... If it wasn't for the Epson being a little brighter too I'd go for the better quality of the panny but the price & brightness has me wavering.

Sounds like this decision is tilting towards the Epson...?

Not really I'm just trying to talk myself into the epson to save my failing budget... It may come down to this if I actually have the extra $500 when it comes time to buy I'll probably get the Panny. :D

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1257219798.jpg

Tile for the Bathroom floor done... still need to do the shower.
(sorry bout the bad iPhone pic.)

Quick update!

Here is a pic of the mini-fridge that will be "built-in" under the counter...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1257300934.jpg

The little kitchen area.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1257300936.jpg

The bar top... with the wall cabinet for the kit sitting on top.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1257300937.jpg

The sink...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1257300938.jpg

Joe,

You're doing well, keep up the good work!
Nice sink; I'm thinking this came form an Ebay store in AZ...?

Joe,

You're doing well, keep up the good work!
Nice sink; I'm thinking this came form an Ebay store in AZ...?

No but a quick look shows that they do indeed have an ebay store, and they are located in AZ, You sure do know your copper sink dealers... :D

Funny - that's because that is where I found mine.
I took a chance on ebay and found a good supplier. I remember they also had the same style you are installing...

The idea of a copper sink came from your thread... Most of my build has copper/bronze trim pieces so I thought a copper sink would go well with the rest of the "theme".

Pulled the trigger on a new Sub... the money is flowing like water... I went about $150 over my original budget and picked up a Rythmik F12... At this rate I'm not going to be able to afford any movies to watch in my theater. :)

I can feel your pain.

For most of the first year of my build - monthly expenses were often hitting 4 digits
It wasn't until recently that they it below 300/mo. Then the carpet came, and now all the fun stuff - keep a firm grip on your wallet and your smile

Pictorial Update... Just realized I didn't include a pic of the tile work on the window ledge I'll pick that up next time.
Kitchen
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1257741473.jpg

Sink
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1257741475.jpg

1/2 the shower done
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1257741477.jpg

Joe,

Gotta say; your tile work is impressive, NICE choices!

Upon taking another look:

I assume you will soon be grouting near the sink. Be sure you protect the copper sink. I suspect the grout mix could severely discolor the copper finish. (It should eventually "oxidize back to a nice patina, however..)

Sink isn't set yet, its just there to hide the hole... :D

I'm waiting until I have the bar area finished too so I can grout both areas at once.

The tiel looks great. cant wait to see it with grout.

The rest of the shower is tiled... The wife "helped" pick carpet for the theater :D

We started with many samples... then we were down to 2...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1339.jpg

And the winner... "Fudge"
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1334.jpg


Here is a pic of the tiled window sill. I'll take more pics when I get everything grouted.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1340.jpg

The colors in the theater are going to make everyone hungry... Turkish Coffee, Cafe Carmel, Fudge, Banana Creme :p

Cool stuff on the countertop and tile work. Everything looks great! Nice color scheme too.

Thanks Queen! It's been a long road but everything is coming together now.

An other milestone... A working toilet!!!
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1343.jpg

Shower Grouted
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1342.jpg

Equipment Rack - still need polly - the bottom section is a drawer - I'll take more pics when it is cleaned up.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1341.jpg

Great work! Sure is an interesting shower drain you got there. ;)

ha ha :)
I hope to get the "shower drain" into it's proper location tonight.

Joe,

It 's really coming together nice. Seems you've been working OT, all the grouting is now done and into plumbing hookups?

I like the tile/stone color choices they go well together with the wood work.

OT? Yes Some. :) though I took last night off... Still have to grout the kitchen and lay and grout the bar. The sent the wrong trim pieces so I've been delayed for 2 weeks waiting for the correct pieces for the bar. :( The good news is that they should be here today.)

And just for hanesian we have a woodpile shot... Small I know but expensive "Select Pine" for the DVD shelves/doors.

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1258632969.jpg

Woodpiles are good!

The key is consuming them, if consumption is not possible >> just move 'em around !!

Bathroom Sink
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/1259099598.jpg

Joe,

Looking good!
I'm thinking another big "push" for the long Holiday break...?

I have too.... Carpet will be installed next Wednesday... Seats came in yesterday... Projector shipped yesterday... It's the home stretch.

Update: WOHOoo!!!! :D:D:D I just checked & the Projector will be here Friday... Damn I have to get the projector shelf built and the screen up! :p

Nice vessel sink! Hope you get yer stuff this week - I didn't know they delivered on Black Friday!

I didn't think they did either but Friday is not a national Holiday so FED EX has to work :)

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone! :D

First I'll start you off with some pictures... Then explain my mistake.
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1344.jpg
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http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1352.jpg

You can see the mistake a bit in the first picture... Can you guess what it is?
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Yep that's right the projector is installed...
It started off innocently enough, I just wanted to see if my HDMI cable survived it’s trip though the conduit… but then I wanted to test my speakers, and then I needed to connect a couple components to see how everything worked together… and then I had to make sure surround sound was working correctly… and you know it’s just amazing how good the projected image looked on a dark brown painted wall… and before you know it … its 3 a.m. and I had watched the entire movie… :D


So embarrassingly enough the my movie premier was a showing of G.I. Joe on Blu-Ray for an audience of one. :o But man was it SWEET!

Looks awesome. Great work. So what you installed you PJ and now will never, ever, ever, get any more work done. Hey at least the chairs made it in. Better than sitting on the floor and watching the whole movie.....now that would just be silly.

Two words:

Awe ... some

P.S. Rumor has it that it is technically possible to disconnect a PJ even after it has been hooked up once, and return it to a safe box. But I'm sure that's nothing but a rumor. I wouldn't mess with it if I were you. ;)

What time should we come over for movie time tonight?

Joe,

What mistake? I would have been worried about you if you reported it was delivered and still in the box!

Everything is looking great!!

What is the edge material you used for the bar under your PJ?
Looks like an oil rubbed bronze material, or is it a ceramic material?
Either way > I like it

Joe,
What is the edge material you used for the bar under your PJ?
Looks like an oil rubbed bronze material, or is it a ceramic material?
Either way > I like it

It's an anodized aluminum specifically made as a tile edge profile... I used different versions of it several places in my build.

Thanks everyone for the positive comments...

Two words:

Awe ... some

P.S. Rumor has it that it is technically possible to disconnect a PJ even after it has been hooked up once, and return it to a safe box. But I'm sure that's nothing but a rumor. I wouldn't mess with it if I were you. ;)

What time should we come over for movie time tonight?

No I tried, I think the HDMI cable is stuck or something... :D

I'll check back in a couple of months to see how much progress you've made since installing the projector!! :)

It is nice to finally get to the point where you can see, hear, feel the fruits of your labors. Use it as motivation to complete the build, keep going, and reward yourself with a little Star Trek from time to time!

(who am I kidding, 9 months after hanging my projecter I'm still finishing up my build)

(who am I kidding, 9 months after hanging my projecter I'm still finishing up my build)

No you're not. You're playing around in mud and sand while pretending to build counter tops! And another Christmas rapidly approaching and still no evidence of a Yule Log burning video on that scrren of yours!

You can't fool the Hanesmeister that easily! :D

No you're not. You're playing around in mud and sand while pretending to build counter tops! And another Christmas rapidly approaching and still no evidence of a Yule Log burning video on that scrren of yours!

You can't fool the Hanesmeister that easily! :D

Hanes,

Touche !!

Installed the Screen and one door last night... I'll try to post some pics soon.

To Do List:

Hang Doors (1 of 3 done...)
Term all LV Wiring
Build and Fit two DVD Case Hidden-Doors (Did a Scrap Test fit with the hinges)
Install & Paint Trim (Floor & Door)
Seal Tile & Grout
Install Shower Fixtures
Build Built-in Bookcase for the Pool Hall
Install & Paint Trim
Tweak Projector & Receiver
Build new HT/Gaming PC
Program Universal Remote
Have fun with new area! < Started this early :D

Knock, knock....

Any updates?

:)

:o

I have accomplished a few things though most don't photograph well.

- Satellite Distribution Done - I have two of DishNetwork's HD DuoDVRs. One set up in the theater one in the living room. Those two receivers can then rebroadcast a "TV2" signal (included any recorded shows) to the other 4 TVs in the house. There are some down sides but it is working well for my household.

- GB Network Distribution - Mostly done. A few more jacks to term.

- Cleaned up and setup my second row of seats. It's the two end pieces of a big, comfie, U-shaped sectional giving me 4 seats in the second row (2 recliners)

- Had my first "Premier" with actual guests! Besides some interruptions from the kids it went great! Watched the New Star Trek Movie. It was a really good movie and great visuals to show off the projector.

I'll have to admit that some of last weekends progress was "Lost" to steaming several episodes of "Lost" form Netflix in HD... Looked really good on the big screen.
I'll try to post some pics this weekend.

Joe,

I'll bet the Premier event was fun and rewarding!!

I am thinking about upgrading my Dish service to HD >> Have you been viewing HD by satellite for very long, or is this a new service for you?

Also; a question about the following:
One set up in the theater one in the living room. Those two receivers can then rebroadcast a "TV2" signal (included any recorded shows) to the other 4 TVs in the house. There are some down sides but it is working well for my household.

Curious >> what type of connection is required to get HD material to these "remote" TVs?

I am thinking about upgrading my Dish service to HD >> Have you been viewing HD by satellite for very long, or is this a new service for you?
I've been running a single DuoDVR from dish for several years now and it works great except...


Curious >> what type of connection is required to get HD material to these "remote" TVs?
Well there's the key. It uses standard coax to rebroadcast but the other TV's in the house receive the content in SD. This isn't a problem for me because my other TVs are smaller but it is nice to be able to watch the recorded shows in other rooms if needed.

So I had my first big event in my basement. 10 xbox 360s and 13 adult size kids playing Rainbow 6 Vegas 2, Halo 3, Modern Warfare 2 & Left4Dead 2... with 7 smaller kids playing computer and Wii. A good time was had by all!!!
The big 100" screen is awesome for 1080p gaming on both xbox and PC. Even split screen gaming is great....

I really need to get back to work on the trim... but I did get the bathroom door hung before the event.... :D

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/IMG_1388.jpg
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Tax Season is winding down... I should have time to get back to work on the trim and built-ins soon...

Minor Update... Finally set up my lighting control... I was a bit worried by some of the older posts about poor Insteon quality... If my experience is any indication they have all of those early problems worked out.

I sprang for one of Universial Devices' ISY-99i/IR PROs and I will say that it made Scene Setup dead easy... and I am already spoiled by the setup of an "all-off" button as I leave the basement. It also allows control through a browser even has an iPhone app...

Also set up my Harmony One Universal Remote, everything is working well with one little snag. Projector Control is great pointing the universal (or projector remote) at the screen) but for the other components I need to point the remote off to the left, this has about a 25% chance of not picking up the projector when I send the "Activity" command to the other components. All the universal needs to do is turn on the projector...

Any ideas for a cheap fix??? IR blaster, extender, repeater? If it is a hard wired solution it would need to extend about 35 ft from the cabinet to the projector...

Over all I am incredibly happy with my setup... It has worked great for everything I have thrown at it... Gaming and Netflix with the xbox, Gaming and Blu-Rays with the PS3, Gaming, Hulu and surfing with the new HTPC.... Noticing a theme yet? :D
I have even flipped on the Satellite Receiver a couple times to watch TV...

635 hrs on the lamp so far...

Oh I almost forgot I have the DVD Case Doors built with a second coat of stain applied last night... Should try hanging and trimming this weekend...

Joe,

Good to see you back on here, and enjoying your space!
Looks good - glad to hear the Insteon is playing well with your H1.

Thanks Cuz,

http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/348677c0.jpg
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http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/bfc4c601.jpg

Here are the DVD Case Doors. The hinges are working great no sag at all, just need to put the trim up to make it all come together.

4 more steps and the Theater area will be done!
Poly the DVD Case Doors
Install the rest of the Trim
Fill nail holes
Touch up paint...

For the Rest of the basement I need to:
Build Book Case for Pool Hall
Trim Ledges
Fill Nail Holes
Touch Up Paint
Clean up (maybe paint) Pool Table.

Now you see me...
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/e91da018.jpg

Now you don't..
http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj7/jroyv/VTHT/045d0f80.jpg

Really nice job on the secret bookshelf door!

Love the hidden door. I've been trying to incorporate on in my build. Are you getting inspected? How would I pass this thing off?

Love the hidden door. I've been trying to incorporate on in my build. Are you getting inspected? How would I pass this thing off?

Not have it installed while it's being inspected would be the easiest way.

Remax has it right. Slap up the casing and make it an "opening" to the next room, add your door-shelf later. If you do want to include it in your plans then it helps if your hidden room is a "Closet".

Although I am happy with the performance of my Home Cinema 8100 I just replaced my first bulb at only 945 hrs. So much for up to 4000 hrs.