Well, my wife and I finally decided to take the plunge and finish the basement. One of the bonuses of finishing the basement, is I get to create a theater room from scratch! I've been going through this forum for the past 6 months trying to get an idea of how I want to lay out my room, what kind of equipment I want to use, how to insulate/sound proof the room and ideas for lighting.

I've never done anything like this before, so I'm pretty much winging it in regards to the design, build and everything else. Below I sketched out how I want design the room. I did this on photoshop because I don't have a fancy program for laying it out any better. But you get the idea, right? :)

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SwhmoEMTFNI/AAAAAAAABDY/NF0K1cHGDzo/s400/Untitled-1.jpg

The room isn't the most ideal, as it's kind of small, so I will only be putting one couch in the back center, and most likely my foam bean bag for when I'm playing my xBox 360.

I know that putting french doors is probably one of the worst ideas for theater rooms because of sound leaking through all the extra cracks, but for our basement, it just works so much better in design and serves more purposes than a home theater room. When we are entertaining, we'll be able to open up the doors and it will be more inviting into the space and have an 'open feel' to it.

I've been scouring the internet for photos of theaters and ideas for the design, and I instantly fell in love with this one:

http://hacknmod.com/wp-content/old/pics/2160-2.jpg

It definitely has a warm feel to it and has lots of interest in the rocks, soffits, lighting and woodwork. Unfortunately, I won't be putting an actual projection system in there due to budget, but I will be placing an LCD between 50-60" on the wall in it's place :)

The lighting will be hooked to dimmers, with the sconces and shelf lighting on one, and the main, recessed cans on another.

Photo looking toward south end.
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Swhmi41xWiI/AAAAAAAABC8/2qmBz2CXNYo/s400/_MSP0586.jpg

Photo looking toward south end (theater room is to the right of stairs).
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SwhmjBtsMrI/AAAAAAAABDA/H1poE2Xv3F0/s400/_MSP0602.jpg

Photo looking from the NE corner of the basement
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SwhmjSuc1qI/AAAAAAAABDE/Uq4PGTfdwqQ/s400/_MSP0604.jpg

We now have the studs installed and electrical ran.

Photo looking toward east end / rear of room
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SwhmjXxDJwI/AAAAAAAABDM/xzF6_ssnNKM/s400/_MSP0882.jpg

Photo looking toward west end / front of room where the custom entertainment center will be located
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SwhmoJqxdQI/AAAAAAAABDQ/FsdC82C09rc/s400/_MSP0881.jpg

Photo of the entrance to the room with the french door opening
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SwhmoOiSHPI/AAAAAAAABDU/3Fp3G2Zv_fo/s400/_MSP0883.jpg

Next week I will have all my speaker wires ran and I will be insulating inside the walls. By next weekend, the drywall should be up.

For sound equipment, I've purchased Polk equipment. I have 2 Monitor 60s, 1 CS2, 2 Monitor 30s and an Onkyo rc160 receiver. For the television I hope to have a 1080p 50-60" LCD with a blu-ray player. All of this equipment will be on the shelves to the right of the screen with the wires hidden behind the shelving system.

The next update should be with the drywall installed!

Thanks for looking and I hope to learn a lot as I go through the process. I'm a photographer and nurse, so this is definitely not my forte. With a little help from my Uncle, this should be looking pretty spiffy.

It definitely has a warm feel to it and has lots of interest in the rocks, soffits, lighting and woodwork. Unfortunately, I won't be putting an actual projection system in there due to budget, but I will be placing an LCD between 50-60" on the wall in it's place


You can get a decent budget 1080p projector and DIY screen (or a budget screen) for about the same price as a 50-60" LCD... anywhere from $1000-2000 total depending on the choices you make. Doesn't a 100"+ screen sound tempting? :)

At the very least, I'd run the wires and build the screen wall in such a way as to be able to allow for a future front projection setup.

Hey Jamis, thanks for the info. I actually followed your build and I love the way you did your setup!

Besides the obvious elictrical socket, what kind of wires would need to be ran? Would an HDMI cable be enough from the projector to the receiver? That's a good idea though just in case I want to do it later, thanks!

Stenbough, please, please...please listen to Jamis and everyone else in this forum...who if they take the time to respond to you...would say the same: don't read this forum for 6 months, finally decide to finish your dream basement...and then hang a 50" TV on the wall!! Need visual evidence? This pic, is more or less to scale

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee136/CDLehner/2160-2.jpg

Again, Jamis is right...for maybe a few hundred more than the latest, greatest 50-60" LCD, you could get a very decent starter PJ, and 100" (or bigger, if you room can take it) screen and not even believe the difference in the impact.

Oh, also...if you build you dream theater, don't put the Center channel on the floor...lol :p

CD

That's funny that you said that. I've gotten a couple PMs already about getting a projection screen instead of using an LCD/Plasma. Ok, ok, I have to look into it! I just can't imagine the quality being better than an LCD/Plasma. Besides watching movies on the screen, I am planning on hooking up my xBox 360 to it and use it as a game room as well. How do actual projectors hold up to fast animation?

I guess I might have posted this into the wrong catagory because I won't be using this strictly for home theater use. It will also be a place to sit and casually watch television, play video games, listen to music and relax.

Also, next week we are starting to insulate and hang the drywall. I know there are over 4,000 topics on soundproofing, and I've read about 3,999 of them, but tell me if this sounds right... I plan on stuffing fiberglass insulation inside of all the walls in the basement, then hanging 2 5/8" drywall with green glue in between both layers. Do you think that will be sufficient?

That's funny that you said that. I've gotten a couple PMs already about getting a projection screen instead of using an LCD/Plasma. Ok, ok, I have to look into it! I just can't imagine the quality being better than an LCD/Plasma. Besides watching movies on the screen, I am planning on hooking up my xBox 360 to it and use it as a game room as well. How do actual projectors hold up to fast animation?

Here are couple of pics that I have of my screen. They're not the best but hopefully this will show you that a good projector and screen can look as good if not better than alot of LCD or Plasma TV's.

The screen cost a total of $150 to make. It was built using wood/aluminum mix canvas stretcher bars. The screen is 126" at a 16:9 ratio.

***Please pay no mind to the condition of the theater. It's still only about 15% complete.***

http://i986.photobucket.com/albums/ae343/chucky08016/DSC03051.jpg

http://i986.photobucket.com/albums/ae343/chucky08016/IMG_0093.jpg

Here are some pics of the projector in action on the screen:

http://i986.photobucket.com/albums/ae343/chucky08016/IMG_0055.jpg

http://i986.photobucket.com/albums/ae343/chucky08016/IMG_0056.jpg

http://i986.photobucket.com/albums/ae343/chucky08016/IMG_0061.jpg

http://i986.photobucket.com/albums/ae343/chucky08016/IMG_0065.jpg

http://i986.photobucket.com/albums/ae343/chucky08016/DSC03056.jpg

Here are some pics that were composited together so that you can see the screen and surroundings better:

http://i986.photobucket.com/albums/ae343/chucky08016/IMG_0082.jpg

http://i986.photobucket.com/albums/ae343/chucky08016/DSC03058.jpg

My Father-in-Law is in the pic above for size reference. He's 5'9".

The projector is an Optoma HD72 (720p). As you can see, with HD content (Blu-ray, PC, PS3, etc.) it looks fantastic!!! Movies look great and gaming is an experience.

At the moment, you can pick up a decent 1080p projector which would spank mine for under $1000!!!

Here's one that's coming very soon from BenQ ($999):
http://www.projectorpeople.com/projectors/projdtls.asp?itemid=24767&itmname=BenQ+W1000

Vivitek $999:
http://www.projectorpeople.com/projectors/projdtls.asp?itemid=24764&itmname=Vivitek+H1080FD

Optoma $999:
http://www.projectorpeople.com/projectors/projdtls.asp?itemid=24765&itmname=Optoma+HD20

Mitsubishi $1500:
http://www.projectorpeople.com/projectors/projdtls.asp?itemid=25035&itmname=Mitsubishi+HC3800

Epson $1500:
http://www.projectorpeople.com/projectors/projdtls.asp?itemid=25031&itmname=Epson+Home+Cinema+8100

Panasonic $1800:
http://www.projectorpeople.com/projectors/projdtls.asp?itemid=24159&itmname=Panasonic+PT%2DAE3000U

Panasonic $1999:
http://www.projectorpeople.com/projectors/projdtls.asp?itemid=24987&itmname=Panasonic+PT%2DAE4000U

AND... I could keep going if you'd like. Point is... you're going to make a BIG MISTAKE by NOT investing in a front projection system.

Chucky, Thanks for the information. That display looks awesome. I'm sold. I've never actually seen a home theater screen in person, so I have no visual reference, but that just blows my mind. I can't believe I didn't get sign up earlier to this forum, there are so many helpful and knowledgeable people!

Tomorrow, the electrician is coming over to finish the rough-work for the basement including the theater room. I went down there today to figure out a better way to design the room for a projection screen, yet still keep some of the same styling that I loved in the original photo. This is what I came up with in photoshop:

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SwoPY3sq07I/AAAAAAAABDg/Abp-JrnLM4g/s800/_MSP0884%20%281%29.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SwoPZH5nPKI/AAAAAAAABDo/5vFynJPS-LY/s800/_MSP0884.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SwoPY_Lw6TI/AAAAAAAABDk/-ieByOk4fmY/s800/_MSP0884%20%282%29.jpg

That is a 100" diagonal screen (87" wide and I believe it was 49" tall). The PJ would be somewhere around 12' from the screen which is about 3 feet from the rear wall. I'm going to talk with the electrician about hooking up power to the ceiling so I will be able to plug the PJ in. I'll also run an HDMI cable next to the socket for easy hookup. I've been looking at the Optoma HD20 as a serious choice for a PJ. All of the reviews so far are great and the price blows my mind. I still can't believe I had the misconception that PJs were so much more than LCDs.

I'm calling Sound Proofing Company tomorrow about ordering whisper clips on the ceiling and green glue all around the room. I live in Michigan so shipping should be relatively fast and I love buying locally :). I already have to use a HAT track system for the ceiling because of some pipes, so adding whisper clips is not a big deal. Since my room is on the small side, I don't plan on using any clips on the walls and shrinking it anymore (plus the cost is another factor), instead I'm just going to use the fiberglass insulation and two 5/8" drywall with GG all around. I'll also seal with their silenseal caulk.

I'm glad I spoke with some of you about the projection/LCD issue. I know I would have kicked myself later for not doing it. Plus, it wasn't hard to convince the wife once she found out it was less money for a larger size! :D

I'll probably have an update sometime this weekend when the drywall gets hung.

Cheers.

Chucky, Thanks for the information. That display looks awesome. I'm sold. I've never actually seen a home theater screen in person, so I have no visual reference, but that just blows my mind. I can't believe I didn't get sign up earlier to this forum, there are so many helpful and knowledgeable people!

Tomorrow, the electrician is coming over to finish the rough-work for the basement including the theater room. I went down there today to figure out a better way to design the room for a projection screen, yet still keep some of the same styling that I loved in the original photo. This is what I came up with in photoshop:

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SwoPY3sq07I/AAAAAAAABDg/Abp-JrnLM4g/s800/_MSP0884%20%281%29.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SwoPZH5nPKI/AAAAAAAABDo/5vFynJPS-LY/s800/_MSP0884.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SwoPY_Lw6TI/AAAAAAAABDk/-ieByOk4fmY/s800/_MSP0884%20%282%29.jpg

That is a 100" diagonal screen (87" wide and I believe it was 49" tall). The PJ would be somewhere around 12' from the screen which is about 3 feet from the rear wall. I'm going to talk with the electrician about hooking up power to the ceiling so I will be able to plug the PJ in. I'll also run an HDMI cable next to the socket for easy hookup. I've been looking at the Optoma HD20 as a serious choice for a PJ. All of the reviews so far are great and the price blows my mind. I still can't believe I had the misconception that PJs were so much more than LCDs.

I'm calling Sound Proofing Company tomorrow about ordering whisper clips on the ceiling and green glue all around the room. I live in Michigan so shipping should be relatively fast and I love buying locally :). I already have to use a HAT track system for the ceiling because of some pipes, so adding whisper clips is not a big deal. Since my room is on the small side, I don't plan on using any clips on the walls and shrinking it anymore (plus the cost is another factor), instead I'm just going to use the fiberglass insulation and two 5/8" drywall with GG all around. I'll also seal with their silenseal caulk.

I'm glad I spoke with some of you about the projection/LCD issue. I know I would have kicked myself later for not doing it. Plus, it wasn't hard to convince the wife once she found out it was less money for a larger size! :D

I'll probably have an update sometime this weekend when the drywall gets hung.

Cheers.

You wont regret a projector. I bought a Mitsubishi hd1000u for $600, and made my wilsonart screen for about $130 including the frame, screws, and brackets. For under $1,000 I have a 720p 110" screen that is great for movies and gaming. For about $300 more I will be switching to a Dazian acoustically transparent screen thats 120".

I got my theater framed and I have been tossing the idea of going with clips, channel, and green glue, but im not sure if I really want to spend the extra money. I dont have kids, (no plans for them in the next 5 years either), so im not sure if I want to isolate the sound. For my room im probably looking at another $1,500 if I want to go that route just for materials. I hate decisions like this. I already have cans installed, and my theater room is framed for a french door, which is something I really wanted but not so good for sound proofing.

Btw im in Clinton twp (about 20 minutes north of Detroit).

Remax,

Hey neighbor, I live in Macomb Twp so I'm quite familiar with Clinton Township :) I actually grew up there (right behind Wyandotte Middle School).

I also have my room framed for french doors as well. That is something I'm likely not going to change because it really opens up the basement and makes it feel even bigger. We're planning on purchasing solid oak doors and I will be soundproofing the bottom, top and middle seams with some kind of material (not sure yet). Have you researched screen goo? A fellow member here PM'ed me about it and it looks like a great, cheap alternative for a quality screen.

You said you use your projector for gaming? I'm a FPS fanatic and use my 360 quite often. In fact, Modern Warfare 2 has been stuck in my system since it came out 2 weeks ago... I'm glad to hear other gamers that are happy with their projectors. That's probably my only worry besides the bulb burning out too quickly.

No kids for me either, yet, but the wife will appreciate a more soundproofed room...

Green glue and Silenseal is being shipped today and arriving tomorrow. Insulation being installed Wednesday, drywall this weekend, then finish work on the electrical. It's finally all coming together!

All I have to say is Soundproofing company is great! John was super helpful, knowledgeable, and very friendly. Plus they live in Michigan so they must be cool :) Thanks again guys! New pics coming soon.

I hate to put a damper on things, but this really isn't the best setup. Rocks accoustically are a very bad idea. You'll have tons of echos from reflections.

Too bad, because I love the way this looks.


http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee136/CDLehner/2160-2.jpg

I thought about that as well. That home theater photo is a style I'm trying to achieve, but by no means am I sticking to 100%.

For instance, I'm going to have my speakers off the platform and in front of the pillars (and yes, my center speaker will be lifted up on a stand and not sitting on the floor), I'm going to have curtain material on either side of the screen, I'm planning on installing some kind of fabric panels alongside the wall (any DIY ideas?) and the floor will be carpeted. I'm hoping with all of this extra attention to acoustics, I'll be able to counteract the little bit of rock that I want incorporated into the design.

Also check out Old's theater for more ideas with stone (and he did acoustic treatments)...


http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15533844#post15533844

It's starting to take shape!

Today we started installing the insulation. We ran a HAT track for the drywall to be mounted on the ceiling because I have a pipe running 1-1/4" below the joists. I'm hoping this does something for the sound as well since I've decided to not go with any clips. There are just way too many holes (recessed lighting, double doors, switches and plugs) for the sound to escape that I think the clips would do minimal.

I also hooked my audio equipment up just to make sure the speaker wire was ran correctly and it was functioning and it sounded niiiiiiiiice :D I've never owned an actual surround sound system, so even with all the cement and unfinished surfaces, I was still amazed by my Polk Audio speakers and Onkyo receiver. I wouldn't call myself an audiophile by any means (my previous surround sound was a Sony 2.1, does that even count?) but after hearing the first 15 minutes of 'Gone in 60 Seconds', I'm even more excited to get the full experience on the Epson 8100 over a 100" screen!

Here are some current pics from today.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sw3PvR4V0rI/AAAAAAAABEg/mu9lYQ3iOEw/s800/_MSP0894.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sw3Pvcb5J5I/AAAAAAAABEk/6QwbH_Y8ggA/s800/_MSP0895.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sw3PvgMKGkI/AAAAAAAABEo/X8kugR0uYMY/s800/_MSP0897.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sw3PvkPv2iI/AAAAAAAABEs/4LUxiEMsTiQ/s800/_MSP0898.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sw3PvRBWIxI/AAAAAAAABEc/DUJrvCFI68k/s800/_MSP0896.jpg

Drywall is being delivered next wednesday, then the walls will be started!

Oh, and the rest of the basement is coming along quite nicely too :p

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I, unfortunately, have to work tonight so it's not so happy for me, but that's another story...

I was looking through a local furniture store yesterday, and I can't decide on the piece of furniture I want in the room. I would love to have the recliners, but my room is a measely 12Wx15D. I've already come to terms that the room will only hold a maximum of 4 adults, and that's squeezing them in. I have to keep in mind that one of the doors will swing in about 2 feet (the double doors jut out 1 foot from the room) into the back corner. So, in all reality, I have about 9-10 feet of sitting space... and that's if I want the couch pushed against the other side.

Any suggestions?

My thought was to have the couch sit about 4 feet from the back wall, than have a couple bar tables with stool/chairs for people to sit on in the back. That way I can fit more people in the room and the couches won't take up all the space.

Also, I posted this in another section, but does anyone have any idea what kind of screening for a cabinet door that will allow a remote control signal to pass through but will block the view of the AV equipment?

One more thing, I promise... I just got a great deal on the Harmony 520 remote. Does anyone have this particular remote controlling lutron Maestro dimmers?

Here is a quick mock-up of a possible furniture configuration. It's a bit cramped, but probably the only way i'll fit more than 3 people in the room.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SxEmKtx5ZNI/AAAAAAAABFI/EwewUomvOGU/s800/Screen%20shot%202009-11-28%20at%208.14.13%20AM.jpg

Both couches are typical sizes found at a local furniture store. I'm a little worried that the sound is a bit cramped though. Looks like something I'll have to adjust once the whole room is complete.

Honestly, after seeing that floor plan, I'd do the following (just my opinions and preferences):


Put a stone facade around the screen (above, below, and along the sides). Pehaps build a stone shadowbox around the screen to give it more interest.
Build the AV rack into the back right corner of the room situated higher than the couch and backing into the storage space under the stairs... or along the front left wall between the screen and doors and build a closet behind it to hide the back of the components from outside living space.
Get rid of the pillars and move the speakers closer to the screen wall. You could bring the stone facade out along the first few feet of the side walls as well if you want more stone.


I think this will have numerous benefits:

Keep the component LEDs from being distracting while watching TV or a movie.
Allow for better speaker placement for an improved sound stage.
Still give you the look and feel of stone, but offer more flexibility without the pillars. This setup could also allow for a larger screen with no obstructions. I think the pillars will just make the room look smaller.
If you want to keep the AV racks up front, they'd make a good platform for the front speakers but this would require getting rid of the pillars as well.


Just my $0.02....

Interesting, your points are well taken. I hate to admit it, but I think I've known all along that the pillars will ruin the room, it's just that I love that look. I think it might be time to come to terms with the fact that the pillars must go. You're 1005 right about it making the room appear smaller, and also they squeeze the screen as well. Here is the new floorplan sans pillars... oh, and the sconces that are in place that I forgot to put into the original floorplan.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SxFO_dLJGnI/AAAAAAAABFU/Zs2TqAE1oZI/s800/Screen%20shot%202009-11-28%20at%208.14.13%20AM2.jpg

I could wrap the rock around a bit, like you were saying, to help accentuate the stage a bit more. Back to the drawing board.

Thanks for your suggestions, I'll draw up some other options.

Looks like a fun build! You certainly will not regret going with a projector... unless you hate gorgeous, huge displays that is. :D

Thanks Doomis, I'm really looking forward to using it. I'm pretty sure we'll never leave the house to see another movie again :)

Here is another alternative. Basically it just wraps the rock along the wall to the edge and stops where the painted wall begins.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SxFZzaaZ32I/AAAAAAAABFc/zftlBchY_WY/s800/Screen%20shot%202009-11-28%20at%208.14.13%20AM2.jpg

It really does open the room up a lot to not have the pillars there.

I like the new floor plans... :)

Another note if you plan to keep the AV racks up front... be sure allow for easy cable access (especially from the projector if you do one). You are obviously going to have to pull each component out to access the rear panels... just make sure you allow for long enough cables and/or easily accessible wall plates/patch panels.

I like the new floor plans... :)

Another note if you plan to keep the AV racks up front... be sure allow for easy cable access (especially from the projector if you do one). You are obviously going to have to pull each component out to access the rear panels... just make sure you allow for long enough cables and/or easily accessible wall plates/patch panels.

I have all the necessary electrical boxes and home theater plates so I can just plug the equipment into the plate instead of pulling wire out of the wall. It's much cleaner Basically, the only cable I have ran from my receiver to my projector is an HDMI cable, can you think or anything else I might need? I was thinking about adding a plastic hose from the projector to the equipment to make running possibly future wires much easier.

I have all the necessary electrical boxes and home theater plates so I can just plug the equipment into the plate instead of pulling wire out of the wall. It's much cleaner Basically, the only cable I have ran from my receiver to my projector is an HDMI cable, can you think or anything else I might need? I was thinking about adding a plastic hose from the projector to the equipment to make running possibly future wires much easier.

Mostly I was thinking of all the speaker wires and components plugging into the receiver. It can be annoying to have to pull out the receiver to futz with the connections. Having easy access to the rear of your components can make your life so much easier.

1st layer of 5/8" drywall is up throughout the room. I can't believe how... how... SMALL it looks! I know starting with a 14x12' room isn't much, but man, when it's closed in, it's really closed in! I'm glad I ditched the stone column idea because that definitely would not have gone very well. I'll have some photos to post tomorrow.

Along with all this home theater work, we also are working on installing the 1/2" drywall across the rest of the basement walls/ceilings. So the progress is going to be slower than usual for the home theater. I'm deciding on colors for the theater, and right now, I'm leaning towards camel color walls, black ceiling/front wall, and dark brown/cafe colored accents (sound absorption panels, trim and cabinet). I plan to use the brushed suede texture paint because it's so cool! We have it in our bedroom and I love it.

I'll be posting some photos after this weekend when there's a bit more to reoprt.

By the way, the monoprice 25' HDMI cable I purchased is high-quality. I cannot believe how much material is on the outside of the cord for shielding purposes. Even if it doesn't do much, it makes me feel like I'm using a premium cable.

Exciting to read your thread. I remember back to my first time hearing surround sound and experiencing a projector in a home....You're going to be on cloud nine! And, it will be a crazy experience with your gaming! I, too, have been playing MW2 for a few weeks now...and at 14' wide, it gives new meaning to immersive.

Keep it up, and keep listening to Jamis. Best wishes for a great room.

@Jamis, thanks, I'll definitely take that into consideration when I build the cabinet. I hate fussing with wires to begin with, so making them accessible is a must!

@Tony, thanks for checking out the build. Hopefully in the next month or so, it will start to look like something. I have so many great ideas for the final design. I can't wait to hook my xBox up to the projector as my 50" plasma isn't cutting it anymore :p I can't wait to fire up MW2 as well :)

Here are a few photos from today. First, I apologize for the crazy vignette on every photo. I don't have a full-frame WIDE lens, so I had to hook up my crappy 17-70mm Sigma to my D700 to get the whole room in the photo. Unfortunately, since the lens is smaller than the sensor, it puts out this nasty vignette...

So far, one layer of 5/8" drywall is in the room. GG and second layer will be applied next weekend.

Here is the 48" entrance to the theater room. I decreased the door size from 60" to minimize the door swing space. It also allows me to pull the right rear speaker from the corner a bit more. I should be about 8-12" from the back wall.
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SxxmsQdApCI/AAAAAAAABHA/nm8l7VE2peM/s800/_MSP1031.JPG

Standing in the rear-left corner of the room looking towards the screen. The three wires hanging from the wall will shine onto the screen as accents when not in use. You can see one of the sconces on the right wall and the entrance all the way to the right. There are also two lights near the front which will spot-shine onto the cabinets in the front. http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SxxmsN2L_8I/AAAAAAAABG8/L3isq5B7gEs/s800/_MSP1032.JPG

Standing in the front left corner, looking towards the rear of the ht.
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SxxmspvqkRI/AAAAAAAABHE/YfRiUKR10gg/s800/_MSP1033.JPG

Standing in the rear-middle. You can see the 2 front channel boxes in the lower right and lower left sides along with the wires spewing out from the right side.
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sxxm2DI3xJI/AAAAAAAABHM/kYI_SQ4-fJ4/s800/_MSP1034.JPG

Standing in the front-middle.
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sxxm2Bo2y1I/AAAAAAAABHQ/P1mW82lugwE/s800/_MSP1035.JPG

This is just outside the entrance to the theater. I'm thinking about turning that unused corner into a small concession area with possibly a shelving system for my dvds, blu-ray discs and other media.
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sxxm2nAODMI/AAAAAAAABHY/assPWivNQjg/s800/_MSP1037.JPG

Here are two iPhone videos I took today.
I4AngX7fJa8

nVa_7eWRO84

Looking forward to slapping some paint on those walls!

I think I injured my back taking the two pallets of dricore subfloor downstairs. Ouch.

Some things I have been wondering about...
1.) Should I fill the gaps between the boxes and drywall with spray-foam or caulk to help seal?
2.) How should I better sound-proof my 48" door besides getting one made of solid wood? I remember seeing products online that added rubber? to the door to create a seal but can't find it now.
3.) How important are bass traps in this small of a room? Also, if I choose to install the bass traps, do they go all the way from floor to ceiling or just around ear level? That 703 stuff is pricey!
4.) What would you recommend installing on the front wall to absorb any reflections? I was thinking about bass buster cotton behind the screen and keeping the walls to the side of the screen empty.
5.) Is there an acoustic wall treatment calculator somewhere to help me decide how much to buy?

I'm such a newbie but I don't want to skip something if I can help it!

I picked out some colors today for the room... Mickey Mouse Ears front wall and ceiling, Desert Plateau suede walls. Wall treatments will be dark shades of gray/black, or possibly earthy reds or blues. Carpet will most likely be a mid-dark gray.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sx5sBdsov8I/AAAAAAAABIw/k4uyHvk4ZnM/s800/RLH_7_SU79_v0.jpg

I wish I had the patience to learn Sketchup or I would have a snazzy mock-up to show...

Nice progress with your build! How much of your basement are you doing with Dricore? Two pallets are 240 pieces! I'd agree with "Ouch":eek:

I'm going to need upwards of 200 pieces but plan to pay the neighbor kids $20 to lug it down for me:D

We're doing the whole basement, I had accurate numbers at the time, but I believe it was around 920 sq ft. Each piece is 2 sq ft. and there were definitely 480 tiles that I brought down. I don't know what's worse, carrying drywall or carrying dricore. I think I hate each equally as much.

$20 ain't bad at all! Definitely worth it.

That makes sense. The panels are 2'x2' or 4 sq ft per panel, so your 920' divided by 4 leaves 230 panels......two pallets, strained back, more beer.

I think I'll go off and tweak some on Stephen Hawking's black hole theory now that one's solved;)

Yeh yeh that's it...

2.) How should I better sound-proof my 48" door besides getting one made of solid wood? I remember seeing products online that added rubber? to the door to create a seal but can't find it now.

My comments assume you are still doing double doors, not one 48" door. I haven't found the answer to this question for myself either. However, in home studio construction a lot of the DIY folks are getting good GM trunk rubber seals - new or salvaged. Apparently it is really soft, provides a great seal, and lasts. Now, most of the time this is with a communicating door design so I'm not sure how effective it would be in our situations (double doors).

Practically all the feedback I've received regarding double doors just says don't do it unless you expect to leak a lot of sound. I've never had anyone reference what frequencies will flank (low, mid, high, all, etc.) based on a double door versus single. Knowing those pieces would allow me to tackle that by additional additional isolation outside the room leading upstairs. Maybe some of the experts will chime in with ideas or better yet specific real world examples/experience.

In the meantime, you can go checkout this discussion over at the John Sayers forums. (http://www.johnlsayers.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=1662)

EDIT: and here for specifics regarding the GM trunk rubber recommended by Rod Gervais - Home Recording Studio Build it Like the Pros (http://www.recording.org/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&p=250316)

In the meantime, you can go checkout this discussion over at the John Sayers forums. (http://www.johnlsayers.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=1662)

EDIT: and here for specifics regarding the GM trunk rubber recommended by Rod Gervais - Home Recording Studio Build it Like the Pros (http://www.recording.org/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&p=250316)

This is really helpful, thanks. Once the doors are in, I'll probably head up to Pepboys or Murray's myself and see if I can't find a solution there.

A few days ago, I ordered some signs from WHCC for the theater room... I know, a bit premature, but I just had to see how they would turn out. They are AWESOME! Wayyyy better than I would have thought. Here are some photos of the signs:

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SyAhwHUCEYI/AAAAAAAABKc/Fu2HulMlbZA/s800/_MSP1043.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SyAhwXqEObI/AAAAAAAABKg/NmKXAes5VAU/s800/_MSP1044.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SyAhweNlpeI/AAAAAAAABKk/_djU-1HlkIA/s800/_MSP1045.jpg

If you aren't a professional photographer and can't use WHCC, no worries, you can go to MPIX.com and use their services. I checked out the prices and they're a bit higher, but well worth it. They look way more professional than just a framed photos of the print. My suggestion if you are going to do this, is to use 'lustre coating' on the print. It doesn't smudge when you touch it and it's not high-gloss so it keeps a consistent look in all lights.

EDIT: Here are is the thread where you can get the signs if you haven't already seen it: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1062844

Updated photos of the whole basement!

By this weekend, all the drywall should be mudded and taped. Hopefully by next weekend we'll be putting paint on the walls :)

Looking towards the bar
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SyqjMhS1bSI/AAAAAAAABMA/_kK5aF7dJC0/s800/_MSP1046.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SyqjM_UpqAI/AAAAAAAABME/VTbL6S6wxMo/s800/_MSP1047.jpg

Storage on the left side of the stairs, and bathroom to far left.
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SyqjNFwZw7I/AAAAAAAABMM/JQ1ydYPH0VU/s800/_MSP1049.jpg

Looking out from the craft room. The fem-cave I like to call it.
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SyqjUW7alDI/AAAAAAAABMU/i0poNooD9Cw/s800/_MSP1051.jpg

Man cave to the right of the stairs.
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SyqjUdASfDI/AAAAAAAABMY/4ps9uo4KFn8/s800/_MSP1052.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SyqjU1L-XgI/AAAAAAAABMg/Ef2M21o5HUk/s800/_MSP1054.jpg

Green glue? What green glue? :D
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SyqjU11eODI/AAAAAAAABMk/NbsJzZ-tbZY/s800/_MSP1055.jpg

Looking towards the projection screen.
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SyqjaEX74HI/AAAAAAAABMo/Y7q9nIlmIzQ/s800/_MSP1056.jpg

Looking to rear of man cave.
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/SyqjacT-O3I/AAAAAAAABMs/TPBi5KBiGZ8/s800/_MSP1057.jpg

A better pic of the roughed-in bar area. This is going to be my second favorite place in the basement. LCD or plasma hanging in the middle above the counter, sink and kegerator below and glass front fridge as well.
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Syqjazk-5WI/AAAAAAAABM0/ZCTndXNrW_Q/s800/_MSP1059.jpg

Oh, by the way, I have 6 tubes of green glue left and am willing to part with them for $60.00 Anyone in the metro Detroit area that wants to take them off my hands are more than welcome?!

New stuff has been going on behind the scenes during the holiday season...

First off, A POPCORN MACHINE! My wife gifted me one for Christmas this year and I love it! I tried using 'popcorn' oil that was bought at a health foods store, but eck! It did not taste like real, theater-style popcorn. So we ordered a case of MegaPop 6oz packets because everyone raves about the taste. I just got them from UPS today, so we'll be trying it out tonight while we watch some Band of Brothers.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Szu2Ag5kwnI/AAAAAAAABOw/mBOumnOXs5w/s800/_MSP1437.jpg

Secondly, the whole basement is primed with paint. We'll be able to clean up the drywall dust in the next couple days, and then I'll finally lay the Dricore down. It looks sweet. I can't wait to host a party down there.

Lastly, the soffit above the screen was built today and it is awesome. They really did a good job translating my vision to drywall. Here are a few pics:

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Szu2A57d9-I/AAAAAAAABO0/WQqS7QY9PxU/s800/_MSP1442.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Szu2A3AbBGI/AAAAAAAABO4/Y9c48rw6no0/s800/_MSP1443.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Szu2Azs_O9I/AAAAAAAABO8/t4jsKPw_NVY/s800/_MSP1444.jpg

The stage will be the same shape and size and will be built on top of the dricore once that's installed. Our electrician is coming through tomorrow and adding the accent lights to those 3 wires dangling through the soffit. The two larger recessed cans in front of the soffit will actually be directional lights that will light up the corners of the stage where there will be statues, fake plants or something like that.

By next week, I should have the room painted and subfloored! I picked up Mickey Mouse Ears Black from HD too! I'm super excited to finally put some colors to these walls!

I also got some home theater chairs from Craigslist that will look great in the room. They are in immaculate condition and are pretty comfortable. They are originally from Garden Ridge so they aren't the highest quality, but they're just what I want for the money I spent.

Got some painting done in the main basement and began laying the Dricore. Kind of a pain-in-the-butt, but it'll be worth it in the end, right?

Here are a few pics from today:

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sz6z1VZrYhI/AAAAAAAABPU/EQvLGnTZn5w/s800/_MSP1456.jpg
A look at the bar from the main room.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sz6z1T3LUKI/AAAAAAAABPY/gmiPNgl4ljY/s800/_MSP1457.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sz6z1X6fYxI/AAAAAAAABPc/3t5RYYBwEmY/s800/_MSP1458.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sz6z14pohNI/AAAAAAAABPg/SHz-9z-xPOE/s800/_MSP1459.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sz6z16koqrI/AAAAAAAABPk/kbpac4Ggv1Y/s800/_MSP1460.jpg
Damn Dricore... Why won't the pile go down! Just go down already...

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Sz6z5MqNDqI/AAAAAAAABPs/41moIVtrUes/s800/_MSP1461.jpg

So, that's the update so far. Hopefully by tomorrow, I'll have the main area subfloored.

I like the color on the wall. Where did you buy the paint and what color is it?

The color is Dusty Olive, and it's Behr paint from Home Depot. It went on really nice and the color will compliment the darker laminate flooring that we're going to install.

It all looks great so far!

Two rooms left for the Dricore installation. I'll be so glad when it's done. I'm not too handy with a hammer and saw, so it's been a p-i-t-a to install. I have a few 45 degree walls and uneven floors which makes the installation that much more difficult. Plus I was a bit off on my estimate, so I have to go back and get some more tiles.

Anyways, this will soon be the only memory of the Dricore installation.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S0feUbRJsoI/AAAAAAAABQw/jZ5siz_Nf-E/s800/_MSP1462.jpg
One happy camper!

Here is what the theater room used to look like...
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/Swhmi41xWiI/AAAAAAAABC8/2qmBz2CXNYo/s800/_MSP0586.jpg

...and this is where I am currently...
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S0feUrcS2mI/AAAAAAAABQ0/_msua7tHwbQ/s800/_MSP1473.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S0feU57bB_I/AAAAAAAABQ4/iXGiHCpMuiU/s800/_MSP1474.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S0feU8yaYYI/AAAAAAAABQ8/7SQ5ctWSci4/s800/_MSP1475.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S0feVOqwgZI/AAAAAAAABRA/nU0msZe1byw/s800/_MSP1476.jpg

[IMG]http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S0feX-HsxAI/AAAAAAAABRE/eM0l2diYHxk/s800/_MSP1477.jpg[/IMG}
Wires everywhere! These will be installed inside the cabinet once the floor is in.

Mickey Mouse Ears Black will be going on the ceiling very soon!

Anyways, just updating the thread. Have a great day.

Looking good stenbough. I just noticed you only started this around November 2009...man you must be busting some A to be where you're at.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S0feVOqwgZI/AAAAAAAABRA/nU0msZe1byw/s800/_MSP1476.jpg

Looks great! I like that color, what is it?
I can't tell if it's a blue, or a gray, or a blue-gray... but I'm diggin' it.

Stenbough? Stenbough? STENBOUGH? Where are you? You didn't hang your projector already did you?

You've been rousted. Need an update.

Haha, no, I didn't hang the projector yet. That's funny you said that... I've been MIA for 3 weeks! Things slowed down immensly right after I painted the room. I think it's a combination of work and eating theater popcorn. Well, here are some updated pics from today.

Oh yeh, the color of the room is Windsor Haze by Behr. It's pretty dark in there once I painted the black on the front wall and ceiling, but I like it like that! Now I'm just trying to decide what to paint the moldings. I could've swore I've seen white moldings on a black ceiling. Does anyone know who did this?

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S2Sx_9lQUII/AAAAAAAABXU/iVXmJXBVd7s/s800/_MSP1707.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S2Sx_z5oTqI/AAAAAAAABXY/Os5DRNI1v1g/s800/_MSP1708.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S2SyAIaA00I/AAAAAAAABXc/_RZou9MOA6M/s800/_MSP1709.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S2SyATrDA3I/AAAAAAAABXg/j7rYkbuUPns/s800/_MSP1710.jpg

So there you have it! Next weekend, the doors will be going up. I'll probably start installing the laminate in the main area/stage as well.

Looking sweet. Cant wait to see it done.

Well, looks like you've at least been keeping busy. The colors look great and good work with the stage. I REALLY need to get mine done. Dang distractions.

I could've swore I've seen white moldings on a black ceiling. Does anyone know who did this?

CJ's Dark Knight room

Thanks Audixium. I've seen it in another place as well. No biggie... I've decided to go with white moldings so no turning back now!

Here are the updated photos of the theater room:

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S262ezGDW8I/AAAAAAAABg4/es7vTWCVfz8/s800/_MSP1717.jpg
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S262e1aiPQI/AAAAAAAABg8/SFdyb2JWKsE/s800/_MSP1718.jpg
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S262fDU__gI/AAAAAAAABhE/KzpmDt4h-D4/s800/_MSP1720.jpg
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S262fKOpcpI/AAAAAAAABhI/CxFm_fOdY04/s800/_MSP1721.jpg
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S262itI-ElI/AAAAAAAABhM/63PZp3tpNEA/s800/_MSP1722.jpg
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S262i0xbKqI/AAAAAAAABhQ/2f57Ofpsqhg/s800/_MSP1723.jpg

I left the tabs on the screen because I still have some stretching to do... what a PITA! For every wrinkle I try to take out, 2 more appear.

Within the next week or two, the white crown moldings are going up and the equipment cabinet will be going on top of the stage.

I fired up the projector for the first time in the room, without sound hooked up, and WOOOOHOOOO!!! I was blown away! It looks awesome and way better than I ever could've thought. I could watch a whole movie without sound, just to lust over the 1080p high definition picture on the screen!

I'm hoping to have a 'functional theater' completed by March. All of the other accoustic panels, decorations and little touches will trickle in after that.

Looking pretty sweet there stenbough! So what screen material did you go with, Seymour? Stage looks good with the wood (laminate?)

Have you gotten all of your dricore clicks out yet? Despite my efforts, I still have a couple areas where I carpeted that I can hear, but no big deal. I have a feeling that my bar area's (which will have laminate throughout) going to cost me $100 in caulk to prep:eek:

I'm really liking the look of this room and as someone who is in the planning stages of a similar sized room, I'll be interested in seeing the finished result.

That being said, I was wondering about your can lights. I can't figure out how many to put in my room and how to space them. Also trying to figure out what size to use. I can't seem to get a solid count on how many you used. looks like 5 or 6? plus screen accents? any insight you could offer up would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Jay

Looking Great! Just found this thread this morning and found it hilarious following the progress from Plasma to PJ convert. I could see it coming but still found it comical.

What color is that blue you have in your theater, I was looking for something along those lines!

the color of the room is Windsor Haze by Behr.

I think he listed the room color earlier in the thread.

I looked but I completely missed it, thanks.

No problem, I really liked the color too.

Looking pretty sweet there stenbough! So what screen material did you go with, Seymour? Stage looks good with the wood (laminate?)

Have you gotten all of your dricore clicks out yet? Despite my efforts, I still have a couple areas where I carpeted that I can hear, but no big deal. I have a feeling that my bar area's (which will have laminate throughout) going to cost me $100 in caulk to prep:eek:

Thanks Floyd, it's coming along nicely. After installing the projector, it has really given me a kick in the butt to move along. We picked out carpet today, but won't be able to purchase it until the bank account recovers a bit. Hopefully within the month.

I have about 90% of the Dricore clicks and bends out. I bet once you put your exercise equipment down and fill the room up, the weight alone will keep the Dricore on the cement.

The stage is a Dupont laminate floor and the screen is from eBay. I read several good things about ShoppingDeals on this forum and the quality of screen he makes for the relatively low cost. It takes about a month to get, but it's a really nice, fixed screen and fit my budget like a glove!

I'm really liking the look of this room and as someone who is in the planning stages of a similar sized room, I'll be interested in seeing the finished result.

That being said, I was wondering about your can lights. I can't figure out how many to put in my room and how to space them. Also trying to figure out what size to use. I can't seem to get a solid count on how many you used. looks like 5 or 6? plus screen accents? any insight you could offer up would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Jay

My room is about 12'x14' and I have 4-6" can lights, 2-6" can lights that will have an eyeball trim on it to direct light towards the cabinet, 3-3" can lights in front of the screen for nothing more than a little atmosphere when the projector is off, and 2 sconce lights on each side of the room. The 4 main recessed lights do a great job of emitting enough light. It's not daytime bright, but not dark either.

Looking Great! Just found this thread this morning and found it hilarious following the progress from Plasma to PJ convert. I could see it coming but still found it comical.


I can't believe I even considered a plasma! If I come across someone like myself who thinks a plasma is perfectly acceptable in a theater room, I'll kindly direct them to the light like the kind people here :D

Now... it's time to get back to watching Cloverfi.... errr..... painting the trim work.

I checked into that guy on Ebay with the screens...nice deal and good for you, I hadn't seen that one yet. It doesn't appear he has AT type though:( I'll probably have to build one because a prebuilt one's definitely not in the budget.

Updated pics of the crown and the beginning stages of the equipment cabinet:

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S3ceBiCvp0I/AAAAAAAABj8/PddhsRUDuWk/s800/_MSP1952.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S3ceBvjOlpI/AAAAAAAABkA/TcOMae3-KoM/s800/_MSP1953.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S3ceB8QnfuI/AAAAAAAABkE/d41obSkhUQw/s800/_MSP1954.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S3ceCCNEecI/AAAAAAAABkI/S6TuNmiZ0oU/s800/_MSP1955.jpg

I started laying the laminate down. I purchased some Dupont Elite Touch laminate flooring and I have to say I'm disappointed in ease of installation. The pieces just don't click together as easily as the Pergo did at my old condo. The Dupont flooring installation requires you to lift up the row as you install each tile. There is supposed to be no tapping it in and it should wiggle together. Not so. I've had to tap it with a scrap piece of 2x4 in almost every piece for it to fit snug against the previous row. I've already smashed my fingers twice and probably have used more 4-letter words in the past 4 hours than I have in the past month. Oh well, I love the look so I'll just put up with it.

Some updated photos from today...

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S3i0W07IKGI/AAAAAAAABlQ/IuitS5xnJag/s800/_MSP1962.jpg
I love the multicolor plank look. It adds dimension to the floor. Also, the Dupont laminate has a texture on the planks that matches the grain so it feels more like wood when you touch it.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S3i0W_c60JI/AAAAAAAABlU/XA6ilponCC8/s800/_MSP1963.jpg
Cutting in around the bar is kind of a pain.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S3i0XHmD_wI/AAAAAAAABlY/UrS83rlqVpQ/s800/_MSP1964.jpg
The tile and laminate match perfectly for the bar/bathroom area.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S3i0XQ6FmLI/AAAAAAAABlc/2Z62MCxYk5U/s800/_MSP1965.jpg
Another shot towards the bar area. After the laminate gets laid, then I will begin the tile.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S3i0XRV0zRI/AAAAAAAABlg/eoF73jxo_FY/s800/_MSP1967.jpg
Updated shot of the entertainment cabinet below the screen. I'm still unsure what stain to use. I plan on having a smoky grain carpet installed in the room, so I was thinking something dark...

Things left to do in the home theater are: trim needs paint, walls need touching up, lighting needs to be adjusted with trims, sconce installations, lutron light switch installations, staining the wood cabinets and stage and carpet! I can't believe how far we've come in 3 months. It's almost party time in our newly remodeled basement! Woot! :D

That flooring and tile look sweet stenbough. You got a lot done there in 3 months.

Update: Carpet guys coming tomorrow to measure the rooms and stairs. I'm thinking about getting a smokey-gray, thicker carpet for the theater room. Something that's soft on the feet and will hide crumbs and things I drop (I hate vacuuming and I'm pretty sure my wife won't be volunteering to clean it).

I also stained the entertainment cabinet underneath the screen. Here are the updated pics.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S3x7xPZ_X1I/AAAAAAAABmI/NODqAfhowm8/s800/photo2.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S3x7xNPZ0qI/AAAAAAAABmM/SxF2AOaUHk0/s800/photo3.jpg
2 coats of cherry stain and polyurethane.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S3x7xOrTpHI/AAAAAAAABmQ/4YWR8eV7Kx8/s800/photo4.jpg
I actually finished the whole floor, but this is the most recent pics of the laminate.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S3x70U72i0I/AAAAAAAABmY/AEqX4DNT5zE/s800/photo6.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S3x7xAEi64I/AAAAAAAABmU/l2kDCsZFDMk/s800/photo5.jpg

Murphy's Law has struck again. We bought discontinued tile 6 months ago on clearance at HD and guess what... we're a box short! Now I'm searching high and low to find one more box of this $%^&ing tile so I can finish the bathroom. Otherwise, the bar area and strip to the bathroom will be one color while the bathroom will be another.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S4LmaQBuOFI/AAAAAAAABnM/v3W6Pw1qlA0/s800/1.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S4LmasdxwDI/AAAAAAAABnQ/dOrz0-38hQQ/s800/photo.jpg

I really wanted one kind of tile going from the bar to the bathroom so I sure hope I find one more box.

ALWAYS buy more than you need. Way easier to take something back then to try and buy more later.

Good luck man..

Well, I'll have enough tile to finish the bar area, so it's not the worst possible situation. I'll just have to find something either VERY similar, or something that compliments what I already have laid for the bathroom. The thing is, we bought this tile on clearance for 49c/sq ft and I took everything that was on the shelf. Blegh, oh well.

Hey, that looks like:

Manufacturer: American Olean
Series: African Slate 12 x 12
SKU No.: AS5312121P
Color/Item: Tugela Green

Am I right? If so, I might actually have a box in my basement.

Ooh how I wish you were right... it's actually Marazzi Stone Copper 12x12 tiles.

I made a trip to the store to see if I could match the tile with something similar, but everything was just a 'hair' off that it would look funny if I put it in the bathroom. So I decided to make some hard lemonade out of the dirty lemons I purchased 6 months ago. Here are the updated pics of the bar/bathroom with my new design.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S4MaqWYg1qI/AAAAAAAABnc/qlp9O0rtTSc/s800/1.jpg
Finished with the bar area!

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S4Mare_foHI/AAAAAAAABng/gejiSXWLtIw/s800/2.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S4MarrdCdmI/AAAAAAAABnk/ylY-A160MYY/s800/3.jpg
I'm going to angle the tiles in the center design... it's a lot of cutting but I have a wet saw so it's actually not too bad.

I think this will add some style to the tile (bam!) and will make the bathroom more interesting then it would have been.

Enough updates for today, time to go rest my arms.

Nice improvisation! That should turn out really nice.

Stenbough- I see your doors are in. You made a comment in my thread a while back so I cam to check in how you did them. Your progress is lightyears aherad of mine. :) Anyway, What did you do to your doors to try and eliminate any flanking?

I like the improv...and the result. Could be that we have similar accents in a number of places:

http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff254/Audixium/tile.jpg

http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff254/Audixium/CIMG0433.jpg

You still working out there Stenbough, or maybe watching movies already???
Just checking for an update.

I'm watching movies and playing video games! :)

It's 95% done... carpet is installed, everything is painted, chairs are in, xBox is hooked up...

...there are just a few more things left that the electrician needs to do before I can take the 'final' photos of my room. It's awesome! We watched Transformers 2 on Blu-Ray and I think I might have wet myself during a couple of the fight sequences. I cannot believe the detail in the surround sound AND the image on the screen! It's like nothing I've ever seen before. It's breathtaking.

My wife, who could really care less about the room (pre-construction), had a smile on her face while watching a movie. She digs it! Now, I just need to put a clock down there so I don't burn up too much of my life in the cave.

Photos will be coming soon!

Thats great news. The 1st time you get everything going is like nothing else..lol..Its awesome. Cant wait to see your new pics..Take a LOT of them.

Here are the most updated pics from today.

I've been spending a lot of time down there recently... not working on the theater of course, but watching movies and playing video games! By the way, Battlefield: Bad Company 2 on xBox is the most thrilling experience in the theater. The sound of the cannons is indescribable. My Live name is Stenbough if anyone is also hooked on the game... friend me and we'll tear it up! :)

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S7PoUHi8v8I/AAAAAAAAB6w/7subjCVwA7o/s800/_MSP4566.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S7PoT7lBasI/AAAAAAAAB6s/qnMCQRiaLGg/s800/_MSP4567.jpg
(The power cord will eventually be plugged into the ceiling once we finish the electric in the room.)

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S7PoT6-aJbI/AAAAAAAAB6o/dEswvnaTk5s/s800/_MSP4568.jpg
(So, after much debate, I think we're going to sell these chairs on Craigslist and possibly get a sectional couch in the room. We want to be able to seat more people comfortably so we can share the theater with friends and family.)

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S7PoTx9p0OI/AAAAAAAAB6k/ettwJs9pNsI/s800/_MSP4569.jpg
(Yep... still need to finish stretching the screen and cutting off the excess tabs. We also are going to buy two more wicker baskets to go into the middle-top drawers of the cabinet. Also, the power still needs to be hooked up behind the cabinet and the recessed lights need the trims around them.)

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S7PoTRHHZXI/AAAAAAAAB6g/BM_Gr-HDn0w/s800/_MSP4570.jpg

...and some other photos of the basement...

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S7PoMCwZDnI/AAAAAAAAB6Q/NjytZaX1DG8/s800/_MSP4575.jpg
(The wife's sewing room.)

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S7PoMFywAAI/AAAAAAAAB6M/JqbG8musuY4/s800/_MSP4576.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S7PoZSWwrkI/AAAAAAAAB60/4vTjVfz38-I/s800/_MSP4565.jpg
(Carpeted stairs! Finally!!!)

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S7PoZrvDmaI/AAAAAAAAB64/3TQ8DZ4Sa74/s800/_MSP4564.jpg
(Our tiled and grouted bar area, needs paint then the cabinets can be installed.)

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S7PoZqIygRI/AAAAAAAAB68/9GAG-JpyMag/s800/_MSP4563.jpg
(Our beautiful cabinets came in. They were a little more than we were expecting, but the quality is top-notch and they are beautiful. Much nicer than our cabinets upstairs! This could spell trouble...)

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S7PoZ0AaIrI/AAAAAAAAB7A/tGMHEEOCRCw/s800/_MSP4562.jpg

So those are the updates so far. There are still a lot of things left to do, but it's functional now so finishing it has started to slow down... I need a good boot in the butt to complete it.

I also wanted to say that the soundproofing measures I took during the construction process have proved VERY successful! With the sound turned up LOUD, and I'm talking about thumps to your chest LOUD, I cannot hear but a peep from the upstairs. There is no rattling, tinging or sound going through to the upstairs. I watched Transformers 2 at 3am with the sound turned up without waking up the wife. It's incredible! I can't believe how well it all works.

The soundproofing measures I took are:
*fiberglass insulation between all the studs and ceiling joists
*double 5/8" drywall with Green Glue in between layers
*Hat track on the ceiling joists holding the drywall (I didn't use any clips)
*Sound caulking around all the edges where the drywall met
*1 3/8" solid wood doors

I purchased the Green Glue from the Soundproofing company. They were very helpful and informative. Thanks guys!

I also wanted to say that the soundproofing measures I took during the construction process have proved VERY successful! With the sound turned up LOUD, and I'm talking about thumps to your chest LOUD, I cannot hear but a peep from the upstairs. There is no rattling, tinging or sound going through to the upstairs. I watched Transformers 2 at 3am with the sound turned up without waking up the wife. It's incredible! I can't believe how well it all works.

The soundproofing measures I took are:
*fiberglass insulation between all the studs and ceiling joists
*double 5/8" drywall with Green Glue in between layers
*Hat track on the ceiling joists holding the drywall (I didn't use any clips)
*Sound caulking around all the edges where the drywall met
*1 3/8" solid wood doors

I purchased the Green Glue from the Soundproofing company. They were very helpful and informative. Thanks guys!

It's great to hear that the stuff I did has such a great performance at your place. I have been worried that all of my remodel may be wasted. Let's hope not.

BTW. Theater looks great. I really love the curved effect but I may recommend more seats. :)

It's great to hear that the stuff I did has such a great performance at your place. I have been worried that all of my remodel may be wasted. Let's hope not.

BTW. Theater looks great. I really love the curved effect but I may recommend more seats. :)

Yeh... I've come to the realization that I will be needing a couch :/ I don't mind though... what really counts is how sweet the sound and picture is and they definitely don't disappoint.

Congrats on making it this far - it looks great!

Now you have me a little steamed...no sound gets upstairs through those DOUBLE doors? I might end up in a straight jacket...:o

I swear on my life that you cannot hear anything upstairs. The thing I was most afraid of was rattling noises during low frequencies upstairs. While I don't have any vents or ductwork going through the room, I also used insulation on the ceiling which I believe helps keep things from vibrating.

I was amazed too, especially since I broke a few rules when it comes to soundproofing. The solid wood doors is probably a must if you are going to do double doors though.

Looks great stenbough. Glad you're now getting to enjoy all your hard work.

Thanks Fotto. I'm enjoying it a lot!

Here's some updated pics of the bar area. The countertops will be up sometime this week. We're looking to get a plasma for in-between the cabinets behind the bar as well.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S7oVklyMo2I/AAAAAAAAB8Y/qp9_fkupzR0/s800/_MSP4608.jpg
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S7oVkvK6tPI/AAAAAAAAB8c/74Lhk_UslUE/s800/_MSP4607.jpg

More pics of the bar area...

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S8T0wsNltfI/AAAAAAAAB9w/afElDoclDEs/s800/_MSP4617.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S8T0wzNwQQI/AAAAAAAAB90/kvfiFCe0pJo/s800/_MSP4618.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S8T0w-tw0lI/AAAAAAAAB94/auzSzcDVrx4/s800/_MSP4619.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S8T0xT0ng3I/AAAAAAAAB98/GtbXR4y-mlQ/s800/_MSP4620.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S8T00MZOx2I/AAAAAAAAB-E/nPZ-X0TC4N4/s800/_MSP4621.jpg

...and of course, the tap handle of my one of my favorite summertime brews, Bell's Oberon. In fact, that's going to be the first keg I purchase once the kegerator is installed.
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S8T0wqs6fSI/AAAAAAAAB9s/Rfc18iiIztY/s800/_MSP4616.jpg

It's... almost... complete! Here are the most updated pics of the Stenbough's Theater Room:

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S84SFYZWUKI/AAAAAAAAB-o/tXsGtQf2kjw/s800/_MSP4644.jpg
A picture of the screen, standing from the back of the room. The design of the room was an idea I sketched onto paper, but the actual room itself was mostly built by my awesome and talented Uncle and Grandpa. Also, I can't forget to mention Gary (the electrician) since he put up with all of my requests and changes I made during the design process.

But damn, I love the lighting, look and feel of the room! Now, time to watch a movie!

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S84SN2NWJFI/AAAAAAAAB_A/6BS9naqARRg/s800/_MSP4652.jpg
A ground view of the screen.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S84SFZNGR1I/AAAAAAAAB-s/V20tcxZdV1g/s800/_MSP4645.jpg
My lutron lights that work beautifully with my Harmony remote. I love them and they totally complete the theater look and feel.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S84SFseno7I/AAAAAAAAB-w/-ejwFvJuS_c/s800/_MSP4647.jpg
Here is my Onkyo receiver and Sony Bluray player. Both are awesome pieces of equipment. Both the sound and detail on the video are mind-numbing!

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S84SF_RNZwI/AAAAAAAAB-0/yGTFv6Z8JNk/s800/_MSP4648.jpg
The front of our custom cabinet that my grandpa and Uncle built. I purchsed the wicker baskets at Michaels afterwards to complete the look. They are very functional and I keep all of my movies neatly hidden in them.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S84SGJ0ZDPI/AAAAAAAAB-4/TwEpMzw2s0Q/s800/_MSP4649.jpg
A top view of the cabinet/stage. The detail in the cabinet is amazing. My xBox is neatly put away and now Haley doesn't have to listen to me playing at all hours of the night.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S84SNzMVeiI/AAAAAAAAB-8/Fig_8TsVU80/s800/_MSP4650.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S84SOLS38kI/AAAAAAAAB_I/b26pPteBqB8/s800/_MSP4654.jpg
A sconce that's mounted on each side of the room. Again, this was also done purely to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in the theater room.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S84SOGkq6_I/AAAAAAAAB_E/7fDreKoscIc/s800/_MSP4657.jpg
We originally wanted theater seats inside the room, but quickly realized that the room itself was a bit too small. We're in the process of selling these seats on Craigslist and getting a sectional with a chase on the end. That way, we'll be able to share the theater room with more people.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S84SOvgiHNI/AAAAAAAAB_M/PIipdTSD040/s800/_MSP4655.jpg
My Epson projector that rocks the house! A full 1080p, the colors are vivid and the image is sharp as a tack. No complaints at all.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S84STKJnZAI/AAAAAAAAB_Q/jXmfOBWrFKI/s800/_MSP4659.jpg
The double, solid door entrance to the theater. I'm glad we did this as it really opens up the theater when you're looking in.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S84STISuyTI/AAAAAAAAB_U/vh7x8MLlkLk/s800/_MSP4660.jpg
ll of the walls in the room are double 5/8" drywall, adhered to each other by special soundproofing glue sold by the Soundproofing company in Michigan (woot woot MI). With the sound cranked up and the doors shut, you would hardly notice the theater room was on from the upstairs. Only faint sounds can be heard... which is a good thing because I love my xBox and Haley... well, she doesn't.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S84STiS6CdI/AAAAAAAAB_Y/HQWnquX3XIo/s800/_MSP4661.jpg
Another light design feature I added was the eyeball trim lights in the fronts of the theater. They are pointed towards the equipment and corners of the cabinet. Basically, it was to make my life easier when looking for DVDs, setting up the equipment and general usage of the theater.

Great build....a long way from the beginning when you were actually 'considering' a lcd/plasma screen :) Congrats...enjoy in good health!

Great build....a long way from the beginning when you were actually 'considering' a lcd/plasma screen :) Congrats...enjoy in good health!

Thanks. My wife and I watched a few movies in the theater and we're both blown away. I couldn't imagine watching it on anything other than a 100" screen :)

Way to bring it home stenbough...that cabinetry looks awesome and is very complimentary to the screen wall. Tell your Dad & Grandpa they did a great job, and I could use some column builders if they plan on being in Ohio anytime soon :D

Awesome room you have there! Everything looks great - the colors, layout, design, fit and finish are all excellent.

quick question for you about the dimmer switches... they appear to be the same one I have, except I only have one in my room that controls all the lights at the same time. I want to expand the lighting in the future and add different zones, but my understanding is that they all work on the same signal so I wouldn't be able to control multiple ones independently. Are you able to do this? Just curious how that works.

Awesome room you have there! Everything looks great - the colors, layout, design, fit and finish are all excellent.

quick question for you about the dimmer switches... they appear to be the same one I have, except I only have one in my room that controls all the lights at the same time. I want to expand the lighting in the future and add different zones, but my understanding is that they all work on the same signal so I wouldn't be able to control multiple ones independently. Are you able to do this? Just curious how that works.

Unfortunately, they all do run on the same IR signal. So the signal that you send to one of them goes to all. However, I set a 'favorite' dim on each of the lights (they were all at different brightnesses), so when I select the 'favorite' button on my remote, they all go to their specified 'favorite' brightness. When I choose 'all on' they all turn on and vice versa.

Bar Update:

My second favorite place in the basement is almost complete! Kegerator installed, Bell's Oberon keg on order, glass fridge installed and television... wait... no television!? Well, a delay in shipment of the television means that I won't be installing that until late next week or possibly the next, next week. Otherwise, everything is in working condition and ready for use!

Here are a few photos of our super-cool new hangout which has yet to be named:

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9HUa1f04kI/AAAAAAAACAU/PTmpRtyZvVY/s800/_MSP4667.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9HUbG_OlmI/AAAAAAAACAc/NRpJ-jTrpH8/s800/_MSP4669.jpg
I love me some accent lights!

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9HUbScY48I/AAAAAAAACAg/lsxv6gzcw9k/s800/_MSP4670.jpg
All this sink needs is a 42" Plasma sitting above it...

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9HUbbUpGTI/AAAAAAAACAk/Sv9nPbi275E/s800/_MSP4671.jpg
I have kegeration!

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9HUbBGk6nI/AAAAAAAACAY/wbzIxILi2U8/s800/_MSP4668.jpg
A local favorite of mine, Bell's Oberon, will be coming to a kegerator near you... errr... me soon!

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9HUg5IiZUI/AAAAAAAACAo/KP3FJ8eVF1o/s800/_MSP4672.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9HUhHqZEpI/AAAAAAAACAw/ngQj-YsYYRI/s800/_MSP4674.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9HUhTIEw0I/AAAAAAAACA0/MBu2THCNlGg/s800/_MSP4675.jpg
"Daddy, how come you never play with me anymore?"

I really like how your theater turned out. It looks really nice and I really like the colors as well. You did a great job and should be very proud.

I really like how your theater turned out. It looks really nice and I really like the colors as well. You did a great job and should be very proud.

Thanks Adam. It seems like forever and a day since it was started, but now that it's finished, I'm happy as can be.

Here is another photo update on the bar (aka my SECOND favorite place to be in my house):

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9h95kOlUvI/AAAAAAAACB0/sh5bCLcy3fo/s800/_MSP4896.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9h95zogo5I/AAAAAAAACB4/edG5pjVUkhA/s800/_MSP4897.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9h957GtSsI/AAAAAAAACB8/yxD1gkQsfYA/s800/_MSP4898.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9h95z-VKTI/AAAAAAAACCA/yGqEe2rrQtM/s800/_MSP4899.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9h96a79TFI/AAAAAAAACCE/Ux8aYI9DnkE/s800/_MSP4900.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9h9_0gYlYI/AAAAAAAACCI/Pf6-ZHl1xIs/s800/_MSP4901.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9h9_zd82JI/AAAAAAAACCM/SzVvpwKVEOA/s800/_MSP4902.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9h9_7jwg2I/AAAAAAAACCQ/7Dio5ZONKXw/s800/_MSP4903.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S9h-AS4ilxI/AAAAAAAACCU/5eEEGfh5CFU/s800/_MSP4904.jpg

You've got your computer ... on your bar?!?! :eek::eek::eek:


Isn't that sacrilegious or something? :rolleyes:

That's funny you said that. You're like the 4th person. It's our old computer, so I was going to use it for iTunes and internet. The keyboard is wireless, so I can put it away when the music is playing. Other than that, I"m not too worried about anything happened to it because nothing is really exposed.

So yeh, computer on the bar. :)

Seriously awesome build. Definitely hope to have a set up like yours some day.

The most updated pics of the bar and main entertainment area.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S-NryC8JyYI/AAAAAAAACIA/iv6hrL4-U7g/s800/_MSP4905.jpg
Our first party last night was a huge success! The Oberon flowed smooth, the bar was the gathering place, and the theater was definitely dropping some jaws. They were blown away when I showed them Avatar on Bluray.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S-NryJBqY9I/AAAAAAAACIE/MbnYaDZJCzo/s800/_MSP4906.jpg
A pic of our new barstools! They were awesome and I got such an amazing price from barstools.com

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S-NryhmVfNI/AAAAAAAACII/_8ZXLy1f2Og/s800/_MSP4907.jpg
A pic of the main room looking from the bathroom.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S-Nry_64xJI/AAAAAAAACIQ/BRm8SAPKmSg/s800/_MSP4909.jpg
My ping pong table got some use again! It was fun breaking out the paddle and playing last night.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S-Nr5ezx55I/AAAAAAAACIU/9QwxOqMKcHk/s800/_MSP4910.jpg
My foosball table is all fixed, clean and ready to go. I wish more people played (well) because this is my favorite to play while sucking down some brew.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S-Nr5QrJvhI/AAAAAAAACIY/kA0MkUiV4kg/s800/_MSP4911.jpg
Pic from the far wall looking at the bar.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S-Nr5lXbMoI/AAAAAAAACIc/i__GipvumsE/s800/_MSP4912.jpg
Instead of making a seperate room for the sump pump, we just cased it in. This really keeps the room open and I think it will be a great spot to place some kind of faux plant.

We're in the process of ordering pics for the theater wall so I'm sure there will be new theater pics in the near future.

Wow, everything looks awesome Stenbough! I bet everyone had a great time at your grand opening.

Would love to give you some competition on the foosball table:D

I'm still enjoying the luxury of my theater room. So far, everyone that comes over wants to build the same thing in their basement/empty room. It's so much fun to rent a movie and watch it on the big screen.

2 weeks ago, I purchased an electronic dartboard cabinet off of Craigslist. We brought it in, set it up downstairs and thought "this cabinet looks cheesy in our beautiful basement... why not make a cabinet with the same pattern and stain it to match the bar?"

So, we did!

The original cabinet:

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S_7W4mNHHQI/AAAAAAAACbs/pC52qgvIjHQ/s800/dartboard2.png

...our rebuild using birch 3/4":

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S_7VXzguuMI/AAAAAAAACbE/wyalT5uaCZM/s800/IMG_0259%20%281%29.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S_7VX685-eI/AAAAAAAACbI/82UGk9D9Leg/s800/IMG_0260%20%281%29.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S_7VXxH6b7I/AAAAAAAACbM/vQU1ohSDvr0/s800/IMG_0264.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S_7VYDwUxiI/AAAAAAAACbQ/EHBJ2uXajcI/s800/_MSP7456.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S_7VYtRWElI/AAAAAAAACbU/exw6aIbEdSk/s800/_MSP7457.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S_7VifVDt_I/AAAAAAAACbY/y5ijC-oPXgU/s800/_MSP7458.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S_7ViRhfoYI/AAAAAAAACbc/S3cFcsXkL7w/s800/_MSP7460.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S_7VirDfoxI/AAAAAAAACbg/lyZPOQGaMPg/s800/_MSP7461.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/S_7VipwrohI/AAAAAAAACbk/ogIytNmmDxo/s800/_MSP7454.jpg

We did this whole project for $250 including the dartboard, the old cabinet (that's now in the firepit), and the wood we used to build the second one. If I didn't buy the original dartboard/cabinet off of Craigslist, the cost would have been much more.

My next project is the acoustic panels for the theater room.

very nice indeed.............

Dude, are those chicks in your shop??



Nice build BTW.

Also, do you have any closeup pics of your ceiling cans in the drop ceiling?

I'm looking to do something similar and I'm having trouble visualizing how they attach above the ceiling.

Outstanding.

Do you find the Danby fridge to cool your beer enough? I am looking for a beverage center myself. Thanks.

Your build looks awesome!

I found it today (06/13/2010) right after my wife mentioned that we should finish our basement. Since you have shared images, of which I shared with her, I am getting a green light on my HT! When she read that you watched a movie at full volume at 3 in the morning, that is when she realized that we should do it!:D

Keep the pics coming in - you have some great ideas and I hopefully will be starting my own topic about my own build!

Thanks for taking the time to share your build here on the forums, I learned some valuable info as well and can't wait for the demo to begin!

Your build looks awesome!

I found it today (06/13/2010) right after my wife mentioned that we should finish our basement. Since you have shared images, of which I shared with her, I am getting a green light on my HT! When she read that you watched a movie at full volume at 3 in the morning, that is when she realized that we should do it!:D

Keep the pics coming in - you have some great ideas and I hopefully will be starting my own topic about my own build!

Thanks for taking the time to share your build here on the forums, I learned some valuable info as well and can't wait for the demo to begin!

Thanks! Good luck on your build.

I'm finally receiving our couch that we ordered tomorrow, along with some prints that I made from different photographs I've taken. I can't wait to start the final process of hanging things on the wall. I'll have some updated pics within the week.

Also, to the poster who mentioned the ceiling cans... we had an electrician come to our house and wire the lighting, so I'm not very familiar with the housings. I do know, however, that the cans are attached to the metal lattice with support arms.

Here are the most updated pics of the theater room. To the right and left of the screen, I want to add some black, fabric sound absorption panels. The photos I hung are ones that I've taken in various places (New Orleans, St. Thomas, Gulf Shores, Chicago). The couch is from iKea and it folds out into a bed for guests who want to spend the night in the coolest room in the house!

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TGL_-cDlreI/AAAAAAAACtc/tcLx_5L8Ehk/s800/_MSP0276.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TGL_-Yr_T0I/AAAAAAAACtY/W6hVNNO1iGg/s800/_MSP0277.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TGL_-Af40KI/AAAAAAAACtU/fvA-iBsLYpY/s800/_MSP0278.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TGL_58S0ErI/AAAAAAAACtQ/ME3e4QV4_I4/s800/_MSP0279.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TGL_5h6D9RI/AAAAAAAACtM/JoaALzc8q-c/s800/_MSP0280.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TGL_5WmP-YI/AAAAAAAACtE/CVvegcpmwWk/s800/_MSP0283.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TGL_5m7rvkI/AAAAAAAACtI/DpSFVSYsuKY/s800/_MSP0281.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TGL_5P_olRI/AAAAAAAACtA/hUNeVyCD2gM/s800/_MSP0282.jpg

The curtains are up and it really frames the screen nicely. It also hides the Polk Monitor 60s without compromising sound.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TSYNKHqD0hI/AAAAAAAADoY/ybuSJTEYJYY/s800/_7009657.jpg

I searched high-and-low for a velvety fabric that I could put in front of the front speakers without ruining sound transmission and these curtains fit the bill perfectly! They are pretty thin, yet have a soft velvet exterior which effects the sound so little that I cannot hear any difference in quality.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TSYNV2ljSBI/AAAAAAAADow/swy-e6Wm89Y/s800/_7009656.jpg
(Side pic of the front speakers hidden behind the curtains)

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TSYNVobW1BI/AAAAAAAADos/aKiLB_-36JU/s800/_7009651.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TSYNVnxBREI/AAAAAAAADoo/aO16OO8eS54/s800/_7009650.jpg

...and of course, some screen shots of my favorite movie.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TSYNKOpRVxI/AAAAAAAADoc/2xcx3pcOOsc/s800/_7009658.jpg

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TSYNKKEB8zI/AAAAAAAADog/utl1j7xS6PA/s800/_7009660.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7JMebZ1wFjw/TSYNKaFRUMI/AAAAAAAADok/1FRVl9udrd0/s800/_7009661.jpg

In other news, I'm 1 day away from receiving my first keg of Guinness to serve from my home bar. I've done all the conversions and now I'm waiting for the dark goodness to arrive! Cheers and Happy New Years everyone.

The whole basement looks great! How did those chickens taste though? Or were they just laying hens?

The whole basement looks great! How did those chickens taste though? Or were they just laying hens?

They are laying hens and one rooster. They are my uncle's and he gives us fresh eggs every now and then.