South Carolina
Design leadership, remote coordination, specialist finishes
Context
This project involved converting an unused space beneath a garage into a dedicated home movie theater. The room came with physical constraints — including metal floor joists above — which required careful planning for lighting, acoustics, and ceiling treatment.
The client wanted a space that felt theatrical and fun, but not showy — a room her family could genuinely enjoy together.
My involvement
I worked remotely with the client, building on an existing relationship and a high level of trust. My role was to design the overall look and feel of the room, coordinate across trades, and carry responsibility for how the space came together visually and practically.
I collaborated closely with the client’s carpenter, AV specialist, and electrician, using mock-ups, visual references, and clear communication to guide decisions and ensure the work was executed well from a distance.
Key moments
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Designing a lighting scheme that worked around the structure above, with recessed lights activating on entry and fading out once a film began
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Using light deliberately to highlight custom acoustic panels and the patterned carpet before the room settled into darkness
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Establishing a theatrical palette — black ceiling, dark carpet with gold stars, red velvet curtains with gold trim — without tipping into novelty
Carrying the work through
The project required sustained attention from start to finish. Details such as the lighting sequence, curtain fabrication, and carpet selection were coordinated remotely, with curtains made in New York and shipped to South Carolina for installation.
An existing air-conditioning unit was visually integrated by painting it black and introducing a strong red band around the room, while keeping a strip of wall at ceiling height black so the unit receded rather than competing with the space. A raised platform was built to elevate the rear seating, ensuring clear sightlines and comfort throughout.
Custom acoustic panels, printed with the client’s favourite movie posters, were installed according to the AV specialist’s specifications to achieve optimal sound performance.
Mock up showing location of steel floor joists of garage floor above
Outcome
The finished room is immersive, comfortable, and deliberately informal — a space designed for shared enjoyment rather than display. It’s used by both adults and children, with movie nights firmly established as part of family life. The only thing left to add was the popcorn machine.