If looking at the black screen is not desirable, there many options for integrating your TV using wood framing or
stone. If you want to hide it completely, cabinetry such as this one from Horchow or an antique cabinet won’t call attention to the TV. On the other hand, this Rochebobois photo uses the screen by accessorizing to give balance.
Home Automation
Insulation
Best options for insulation are:
- R38 in the ceiling.
- R13 in walls.
- R19 in the crawl-space.
Let’s Go To the Movies!
Knowing your family, didn’t you wonder if everyone would go to a home theater? I love movies but as times go from a bigger screen to an iPad! We are so close to Hollywood we have heard about screening rooms forever! Maybe if we were getting a soon-to-be-released blockbuster, we would have friends and business associates over. Members of the Screen Actors Guild do get all of the movies to review and I regret that my neighbor with this perk moved this past year! This dedicated space is just that so maybe a more flexible space with sofas and windows (drop down shades, of course) allows for more casual interaction. Anti-glare televisions hang on the wall like paintings and others disappear with the click of a button. Additional outlets for electronics allow the family to multi-task. Mansions have room for one of everything! If you don’t own one, choose options that give your family the best experiences within your home.
Home Gym
Thinking of New Year’s resolutions? A home gym may be at the top of the list! Maybe a designated room, a specific area or a scattering of temptations throughout your home. An iPad for your elliptical can entice you to enjoy a program while exercising. Other options are easy to use weights or a foam roller by the television. AND there is a new Mirror! It is an interactive fitness coach allowing users to stream live workouts and get feedback from trainers! Check this out! If you need to add a mirror for full length inspection anyway, you might want to consider this Mirror which allows streaming as well. A home gym can become an easier option than going to the gym!
Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Does your home have a Carbon Monoxide Detector? Carbon Monoxide can be very dangerous as it doesn’t have a sent to it, and it can make you very sick. Nest has a that is both a smoke and carbon monoxide detector. The best part about it is that you can connect it to your smart phone and it will notify you when the batteries are low, and also you can silence it by waving your hand which can come in handy for false alarms.
Popular TV Upgrades
Add a sound bar with speakers that give your area more of a home theater sound.
Proper viewing distances for your large screen TV: 5’ – 7.5’ for a 50” and 6’ – 9’ for a 60”. Putting the screen where it is at eye level when seated is the most comfortable for viewing.
Updated components no longer need to be in direct contact with the remote so there are many options for hiding them. This allows more flexibility.



