Who says you can’t create your own cinema at home? Most of us enjoy watching movies on the big screen but sometimes, going to the cinema is not really an option. If you have a garden (or even a decent-sized balcony), there’s no reason not to take on this satisfying project. Check out our tips and tricks on how to make an outdoor cinema with just a few simple items:
Get Yourself a Good Projector
Although it is possible to move your TV outside for the occasional movie nights, you certainly won’t be getting the “cinema feel” you’re after. The good news is decent projectors are not as expensive as they used to be. There’s no need to invest in top-of-the-line projectors (unless you want to); a 2,000 lumens one should do. It depends, of course, on the lighting in your garden. More lumens make it easier to see the projected images in a bright environment.
Create a Cinema Screen
Now that we got the projector out of the way, it’s time to think about what you’ll be projecting the images on. The easiest solution is to peg a white sheet to your washing line or wall. Of course, you could just shine the projected image on a wall, but you’ll most likely see the texture or surface of that wall, which is not ideal.
Sound System for an Immersive Experience
A sound system is optional, but if you want to create a real home cinema, your laptop’s speakers aren’t going to get the job done. There are options for any budget, but what you ultimately want is powerful, clear sound with as few wires as possible. So do get a wireless Bluetooth sound system if you can. Alternatively, if you have any old speakers or boom boxes around, don’t be afraid to use them to keep the expenses low.
Get Comfy
The most cost-effective seating arrangement is to spread rugs, blankets, or pillows directly onto the ground. If you don’t want to sit on the ground, just use the outdoor furniture you already have or – better yet – invest in some cosy beanbags that you can snuggle up on. An inflatable mattress could also be a good idea. And if you’re watching with children, you might want to add a few toys here and there to keep them occupied while the grown-ups watch the movie.
And Toast
There’s nothing quite like spending the evening in your garden with friends and family, sat around a warm fire. Toasting marshmallows or simply chatting over a glass of wine next to a firepit sounds pretty good, right? Make sure you get one that’s low enough so as to not obstruct the cinema screen.
Now that you know how to turn your garden into a home cinema, it’s time to call your friends and invite them over! And don’t forget about food, snacks, and drinks! This could be as easy as making some popcorn and filling an ice bucket with bottled drinks. Then sit back and enjoy the movie!
