Question 1

How much does a bespoke Media Room cost?

Accepted Answer

For a professionally designed system featuring a large-format display, integrated surround sound, and expert calibration, budgets typically begin at £20,000. For more extensive projects involving the HARMONIC architectural feature wall or integrated smart lighting and control, budgets will scale accordingly.

Question 2

Do you handle the interior design of the whole room?

Accepted Answer

Our design expertise is focused on the Harmonic modular system and the technical AV infrastructure. For the wider room—such as soft furnishings, flooring, and general décor—we work closely with your interior designer to ensure our systems complement their aesthetic. If you are not working with a designer, we can make recommendations.

Question 3

How does a Media Room differ from a Dedicated Cinema?

Accepted Answer

A dedicated cinema is a room built for one purpose; a Media Room is designed for versatility. It usually features a large-format TV or a "stealth" drop-down projection screen, allowing the room to be used socially in the daytime. The audio is often more discreet, using in-ceiling speakers or a Harmonic front wall to keep the floor space clear.

Question 4

Should I choose a Soundbar or a Full Surround System?

Accepted Answer

While soundbars are convenient, they are often overwhelmed by the size of an open-plan living room. For a space to feel "cinematic," we recommend at least a 5.1 surround system. By using the Harmonic framework for the front speakers and discrete surrounds for the rear, we create a 360-degree soundstage that a soundbar simply cannot match in scale or detail.

Question 5

Can you work with my builders and electricians?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are experienced in managing the "first-fix" cabling stage of a renovation. We provide detailed specifications for on-site teams or carry out the cabling ourselves to ensure that all the "brains" of the system are hidden away in a central rack, leaving your Media Room completely wire-free.

Question 6

TV or projector: which is right for a Media Room?

Accepted Answer

The choice between a large-format TV and a projection system depends entirely on your room’s environment and how you plan to use the space.

The Importance of Ambient Light: This is the single most important factor. While there are "high-brightness" projectors available, we only recommend a projection system for rooms where total or near-total blackout can be achieved (via blackout blinds or dedicated lighting control). Projectors create an image by reflecting light off a surface; any competing ambient light in the room will "wash out" the image, destroying the contrast and the "Director’s Intent."

The Case for a TV: For many multipurpose Media Rooms, a large-format commercial-grade TV is the superior choice. Modern displays offer vivid colours and high contrast even in bright, day-lit environments. They are silent, integrate easily into bespoke cabinetry, and are becoming increasingly impressive at sizes up to 115 inches and at a very tempting price.

The Case for a Projector: If your Media Room can be darkened effectively, a projector offers a scale that a TV simply cannot match. It provides a more natural, cinematic feel and allows us to use an acoustically transparent screen. This enables us to hide the speakers directly behind the image—anchoring the dialogue to the on-screen action for the ultimate level of immersion.

Media Room Design & Installation

Designed For Immersion

The Architectural Core

Media Room Design Process

Recent Media Room Projects

Media Room FAQs