Get your living space ready for
state-of-the-art viewing

Lou Carlozo, Brand Publishing Writer

Whether it’s a home movie experience or the biggest matches of March Madness, a home theater is great addition for the family or for entertaining.

Before setting out on a furniture-buying expedition, keep in mind that the right game plan for your special room involves thoughtful consideration of space, legroom and accessories.

“In today’s society we have really big screen TVs, and some instances there are rooms they call ‘man caves,’” said Connie Sherrard, a design consultant for Baer’s Furniture, a family-owned business with 15 showrooms throughout Florida. “When you have that kind of space, you want to get as many as people as you can in there, and as many recliners as possible.”

Get recliners with cup holders, advised Fort Myers-based Sherrard. “It’s like being at a movie, only better because your guests can kick back,” she said.

Another high-end option is a small sectional such as the Natuzzi Editions transitional reclining sectional with storage console and cup holders that fits between recliners.

Wall-hugging recliners will also help with space issues, as they only require four inches between a chair and a back wall. “The chair goes in the downward position, and you don’t need as much space behind it,” said Janet Graham, an interior designer with Baer’s in Naples.

Need more room? Consider a piece of furniture known as a “pit U sofa.” Depending on the design, this might range from a U-shaped sectional with space inside to something that resembles a walled-off bed, allowing your guests the ultimate leisurely perch.

Or you can take the show outdoors. “In Florida, we often have an extra living room outside,” Sherrard said. “You can have a comfortable area where you grill and entertain. We have swivel recliners and patio furniture that are ideal. The recliner, cushions and fabrics will all endure the elements, even the hot Florida sun.”

If you’re staying inside, consider the dimensions you’re working with as you plan your layout. Graham said it’s ideal to stage your viewing in a room that’s at least 65 to 80 inches wide, and anywhere from 12 to 24 feet deep. Remember that components for your wall TV will take up 18 to 20 inches.

Today, it’s also possible keep many components and attachments out of sight. Some newer remotes let you control electronics without the need for infrared signals. “With this technology, you don’t have to open the doors to the console,” Sherrard said. “In the old days, we had to have glass doors for the remotes to work.”

If you want to go beyond surround sound, your furnishings can now help. “A lot of sectionals have Bluetooth components in them with speakers, and that’s very popular,” Graham said. “So you have the speakers in the sectional, surround sound and even iPod docks you can hook up. And of course, you can connect the TV to system, too.”

No matter the layout, you’ll want to leave space for tables. “I usually put the table next to the chair, and it needs to be the height of the arm of the chair or just an inch or two below,” Sherrard said. “If it’s a higher table, you hand will hit into it and you could spill your drink.”

Just as no two movies are alike, all living spaces are unique. When you come into a Baer’s showroom, count on advice and help that will turn your TV room into a multiplex. No matter the show, you’ll want to entertain your family and guests like a winner.

Click here to shop for living room furniture at Baer's.