One of the best things about a loft conversion is that it allows you to create a completely blank canvas with which to work. With few walls – if any – to contend with, the large open plan space lends itself perfectly to creating a sophisticated loft cinema. 

There’s few things worse when watching a movie than glare on the screen. Not only is it plain annoying , it’s also bad for your eyes as you strain to make out what’s going on. So when creating a loft cinema, blanking out any scope for unwanted light intrusion is essential. That said, it’d be a mistake to not include natural light sources in your loft conversion design. Velux roof windows are a great idea, because they can be supplied with fitted aluminium-backed blackout blinds which prevent any light from entering, as well as stop heat from escaping, creating the perfect snug loft cinema environment.

Home cinema screens and projectors come in a range of different sizes and specifications. The best selections and prices are generally found with internet based specialist suppliers, although some high street chains do stock limited ranges of projector and screen systems. For a loft cinema that doubles as a general living room or bedroom, then a retractable screen is a good option, allowing the screen to be safely rolled away when not in use. For the projector itself, a ceiling bracket probably represents the most practical method for mounting, but if the shape of your loft cinema permits it, a sunken wall compartment could be an option too. Audio speakers can either be integrated into the wall, or positioned around the room in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations or the acoustic properties of the room.

Loft cinema furniture needs to walk the fine line between comfort and space economy. A great big comfy sofa is great, but given its likely position central to the screen in the middle of the room, then if too big it could severely compromise the practicality of the room as a communal living space when not being used as a home cinema. Also, if your sofa takes up the whole room but can only seat 2 or 3 people comfortably, then the scope of the room as an entertaining space for friends or kids is somewhat restricted. A seating configuration comprising of 2 or three well-spaced rows would be the ideal layout, but is obviously dependent on the space at your disposal.