The pandemic has changed many things and one of them is cinema. While auto movie theaters remain open in some states, most multiplexes across the country are closed to combat the spread of COVID-19. But that doesn't mean the show can't go on - many of the most anticipated movies are now available on-demand services, and you can still enjoy the feeling of watching them like in a movie theater without leaving home.
How? You are in the right place to find out because we have enlisted the help of interior design experts who have given us some great tips for turning our living rooms into mini movie theaters.
Functionality before design
As Carmen René, designer and founder of Aquilo Interiors in San Francisco, explains, “Isolation syndrome can be very real for some people. Our mental health is affected by having to stay inside… It is really important to have a truly peaceful and healing space. ”
So where do you start? First, you want your space to be functional, according to Breegan Jane, Los Angeles-based designer of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition." "Do you remember the TV trays your grandmother had?" Jane asks. "And they were made of iron and everyone, as a family, sat down and used them for dinner?"
Their mission is to catch up on this trend, because easily transportable TV trays simply give you the flexibility to enjoy a meal or snack while watching a movie and reduce the risk of spills. And now? They come in many modern designs that are not at all reminiscent of Grandma's.
Investing in some fresh new terry blankets is another little way to level up your movie-watching experience, says Carmeon Hamilton, Memphis-based designer and founder of Nubi Interiors, especially if you have multiple people in your home who could benefit from snuggle under some. In fact, Hamilton has assigned blankets for everyone in his home and adds, "If I'm watching a movie on the couch, I want my down comforter."
AmazonBasics Classic Folding TV Dinner Tray ($ 64.99; amazon.com)
This four-tray TV package is available in three neutral colors and includes a convenient matching storage shelf. (Bonus: A TV tray can do double duty as a makeshift laptop mount if you have a work-from-home situation.)
Plush blanket ($ 24.99, originally $ 45; wayfair.com)
Over 600 Wayfair customers love this luxurious lightweight blanket, available in four colors and machine-friendly.
1200 Thread Goose Down Duvet (from $ 109.95; amazon.com)
If you're looking for something a little more luxurious to feel comfortable with, try this Hypoallergenic Goose Feather Quilt. For a more affordable down comforter alternative, check out the Chezmoi Collection All Season Down Alternative Quilt, filled with microfibers, one of our favorites.
Christopher Knight Home Juliana Fabric Storage Ottoman ($ 140.95; amazon.com)
According to René, a multifunctional addition to your living room, like this ottoman, is essential if you live in a smaller space. This piece serves not only as a comfortable place to rest your feet, but also as a convenient storage solution.
Comfortable decor and accents are key
The next thing to consider when making your space more conducive to a cozy environment for watching movies is, of course, a place to relax. Hamilton recommends a deep sofa or comfy chair, a good coffee table, and, of course, a place to drop the popcorn.
"Always stick with the pieces that tell you something and the things you love," advises Hamilton. "Try to avoid anything that is fashionable and choose what you really like."
Nia Velvet Square Arm Sleeper ($ 459.99; wayfair.com)
Made with velvet fabric reminiscent of classic movie theaters, the Nia Sleeper is perfect for a pleasant movie-watching experience. This Wayfair favorite with over 10,000 reviews even folds out into a double bed.
Wallace Convertible Sofa ($ 480; allmodern.com)
Available in seven colors, this gorgeous velvet convertible sofa oozes modernity and is designed with extra cushioning. Also, the seats in this part can be adjusted to recline.
Vasagle Industrial Coffee Table ($ 81.60, originally $ 85.99; amazon.com)
Designed with a wood finish, this coffee table offers plenty of space.
Teniux Remote Control Holder ($ 16.99; amazon.com)
There is nothing more frustrating than preparing to watch your favorite movie, and realizing that you have no idea where the remote is. Available in nine colors, this accessory can help prevent that scenario by keeping all the essentials of technology in one place (and serves as a convenient place to store your phone to avoid distractions).
Put your technology in order
What is a movie night without a quality screen? A high definition television or projector will do the trick. René enjoys the appearance of a projector; She has worn one for years, which says that every night at home it feels like she's in the movies. Depending on your preferences and budget, there is a wide range of projectors to choose from. She also recommends investing in a display and sound bar.
Epson VS250 projector ($ 310.44, originally $ 369.99; amazon.com)
René recommends the Epson VS250 projector, which she uses herself, for a quality experience when watching movies. It is compatible with Mac and PC devices.
ViewSonic Mini Portable Projector (from $ 169.97; amazon.com)
This mini projector can literally fit in your back pocket. At just 4 inches by 4 inches, it can be connected to your laptop, tablet and even your mobile phone to project your favorite movies and TV shows.
Universal Tripod Mount for Portable Projector ($ 31.60; amazon.com)
You won't have to worry about drilling holes in your wall with this projector mount, which comes with an adjustable holding tray and is easy to store.
Vizio Soundbar (from $ 78.99; amazon.com)
It delivers the sound Vizio is known for in a small package that can be easily moved from one room to another. It also has built-in Bluetooth, so you can connect wirelessly.
The extras
Nostalgia Vintage Popcorn Machine ($ 54.96; wayfair.com)
Get rid of the bag of popcorn, buy a bag of corn and have fun with this vintage popcorn machine. "We have to go back to making popcorn at night," says Jane. "It is an easy and healthy snack and it is cheap."
Nostalgia Electrics Popcorn Cart ($ 119.99; amazon.com)
Take nostalgia to the next level with a popcorn cart. This fun accessory comes with storage for beans and other condiments to personalize your snack. And until May 17, the price drops to $ 87.99 when using promo code YOUSAVE20.
Fun Express Mini White Popcorn Boxes ($ 11.99; amazon.com)
These cute boxes are the perfect container for your freshly made popcorn. To make the experience even more fun, let the kids grab markers and express their creativity by designing their own boxes.
Cartel Scratch-Off 100 Movies ($ 15; uncommongoods.com)
From "The Lion King" to "Shark", take the challenge and see if you can scratch the 100 movies featured on this poster, a great addition to any movie theater.
Note: The above prices reflect the price at the time of article posting.
