Most spaces in a property, big or little, can be used as a cinema room but with the correct guidance from a top interior designer; these areas can be transformed into the perfect retreat.
In a space that can double as an entertainment area as well as a screening room, it’s important to create a look that functions for both dark as well as daylight conditions. The key to this is to create the right mood and feel by blending warm hues, superior furnishings, soft accessories, subtle lighting within an overall air of ease and casual simplicity.
London interior designer René Dekker has created fabulous cinema rooms using a variety of schemes, all of which work perfectly in their unique way. He has chosen the ideal colours, fittings and accessories to suit the individual needs of his clients.
The hues René has used include soft black and greys ranging from dusty charcoal to gently shimmering silver in one scheme. In another, he has opted for deep blues, spanning from darkest navy ink to sumptuous indigo, for a richer more contemporary feel. In a third, he has chosen a palette to recall the tones of traditional sepia with soothing chocolate browns and taupe, and added touches of red to punctuate and warm up the space.
Walls become an important feature in a cinema room, possibly more so than in other areas of a property, mainly due to the element of sound. Depending on the chosen location, walls and doors may need to be insulated, but this too can be done creatively without losing the practical identity. Interior designs could include stylish padding using sumptuous fabrics or studded leather panels that create the feel of a gentleman’s club. If sound is not an issue (in a basement for example), the walls could be simply covered in beautifully textured wall coverings or a curtain to keep a look consistent and flowing.
Although the lighting in a cinema room will need to be mellow to enhance the mood, a luxury interior designer will still be able to offer an array of fabulous alternatives. In his schemes, René Dekker has cleverly teamed ceiling downlighters with a series of stylish wall lights. A row of simple drop pendants provide a suitably dramatic and practical cinematic feel, while in a bigger space, floor lamps are an ideal choice for a more modern look. Along with colour and texture, they provide that all important desired effect – a warm, inviting glow that exudes relaxation.
Texture also plays an important role, particularly when considering soft furnishings. These need to be versatile enough to work in light environments, but when it comes to the dark filmic experience itself, soft, tactile qualities are integral. In addition, rounded edges take the place of sharp lines, while corner sofas and ottomans provide the perfect seating on which to lounge and relax.
Bigger spaces offer more versatility in terms of seating, and provide the opportunity to recreate the cinematic experience in the comfort of your own home. This can be achieved by using rows of chairs, although unlike a real cinema, these are independent, spacious tub designs, upholstered in tempting fabrics. For a more relaxed, bohemian feel, an interior designer might opt to sacrifice conventional seating in favour of fun, oversized floor cushions.
When it comes to pattern, as with colour; simplicity is key as anything too elaborate will confuse the scheme and its overall mood of calm. The exceptions to this are geometric shapes. Used cleverly these can add interest to a scheme by appearing in subtle ways – the grain and pattern of a wooden door, the design of a carpet, or the pattern in the curtain fabric and scatter cushions.
Other accessories to complete the scheme include photography of classic films or actors, monochromatic artwork and of course fur throws – an absolute must for both comfort and luxury.
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