Though a home theater can be as simple as a large-screen TV in the family room, some families are opting for dedicated theater spaces in their homes—spaces filled with the latest electronic gear. If going to the movies at home is your dream weekend, then consider these ideas for creating your own home theater.

THE RIGHT ROOM A room without windows is the ideal location for a home theater as outside light won't detract from the entertainment. Because of this, basement or attic rooms work well. Design the room to fit the components of your particular home theater system so speakers can be located properly and seating is at an optimal distance from the screen. A rectangular space (like that of a real movie theatre) is the most convenient in terms of speaker and furniture placement and traffic flow. Center seating in front of the screen and equidistant from sidewall speakers. Consult a qualified installer or salesperson to help you choose the right components (screen and sound system) for your home theater space. If you're building a new room or remodeling an existing space, be sure to consider installing soundproofing in the walls, floors and ceilings.

DREAM SCREENS The right TV for you depends on your budget, style and space. Direct-view TVs offer a high-quality picture at an affordable price. Although they are big and bulky, they only cost about $600. Rear- projection screens are a good choice for those with plenty of space and a limited budget. Screens measure 42 to 65 inches and start at around $1,000. LCD (liquid crystal display) produces a brilliant picture. A 32-inch wide screen HD-ready model starts at around $1,000. DLP (digital light processing) screens offer a big-screen HDTV at a reasonable price; 42- to 50-inch widescreen HDTV models start at $1,700. But if you want the best and your budget can handle it, go with a plasma screen. They are sleek, stylish and produce images that can be viewed in many light conditions and from almost any angle.

WINDOWS AND LIGHTING If your home theater room has windows, choose window treatments that block out all light. Double up on window coverings for extra protection. Drapery panels should overlap at the center and the walls at each side to block any slivers of light. Wall sconces provide soft lighting that can be controlled with dimmers. Avoid glaring overhead lights, though wall-washing recessed lighting is an effective solution when installed in the ceiling around the perimeter of the room. Put general room lighting on dimmer switches and locate the main control near the seating area. This helps set the mood at the beginning and end of the movie. Low lighting can also help as eyes adjust to brighter light once the movie is over.

SOFT SEATING Visit local stores for comfy options in theater seating. Large sofas are a great way to seat a group and accommodate kids. Furnish your theater with a set of recliners to allow guests to lounge in comfort. Specialized theater seats offer a fun look, luxe seating and drink holders for guests. Whenever possible, offer nearby tables within reach so guests can set down drinks, snacks or remote controls. Wood tables with a low-sheen finish or ottomans make good choices. Ottomans also offer additional seating.