Turning a Triangular Room into a Home Theatre – An Aussie Customer’s Story
Introduction: The Challenge of Unusual Spaces
Last week, we received an enquiry from a Sydney homeowner with a very specific challenge:
“My spare room is shaped like a triangle. Is it even possible to turn it into a proper home cinema?”
At Formovies.com.au, we love challenges like this. While many people dream of a large, rectangular room for their cinema setup, Australian homes – especially apartments, attics, and heritage houses – often have unique layouts. Far from being a limitation, irregular spaces like triangular rooms can make your personal cinema even more special.
Step 1: Measuring and Understanding the Space
For this Sydney client, the first thing we did was take precise measurements of each wall and ceiling height. Triangular rooms have no parallel walls, which affects both seating layout and sound.
We checked:
-
The widest wall – potential screen placement.
-
Ceiling slope – great for dispersing sound but requires careful lighting.
-
Natural light sources – one small skylight needed blackout blinds for daytime movie sessions.
Step 2: Screen Placement in a Triangular Layout
We advised placing the screen along the widest wall to maximise viewing angles. For this project, we installed an ultra-short throw projector paired with a retractable 100-inch screen. This meant:
-
No bulky TV stand taking up floor space.
-
The ability to roll away the screen when the room was used as a guest space.
Step 3: Acoustic Solutions for Irregular Rooms
Sound is where unusual shapes can be tricky – and rewarding. For our client:
-
We placed main speakers along the wide wall, angled toward a central sofa.
-
Added acoustic panels on two angled walls to reduce echo.
-
Used a Dolby Atmos soundbar to fill in immersive sound without running multiple cables.
Pro Tip: In small Aussie homes, soft furnishings like rugs and curtains not only improve sound but also add warmth to the space.
Step 4: Seating Arrangement for Comfort
Instead of cinema rows, we went with:
-
A modular sofa that could be reconfigured for family nights or solo movie sessions.
-
Two oversized beanbags for casual seating.
-
A gentle arc layout so everyone faced the screen comfortably.
Step 5: Lighting Control for a True Cinema Feel
To block the skylight, we installed a motorised blackout blind. For ambience:
-
Dimmable LED strip lights along the skirting boards.
-
Warm-toned LED downlights for that cosy evening atmosphere.
Australian Summer Tip: Thermal blackout blinds also help keep the room cool.
Step 6: Styling and Personalisation
The client wanted a “retro cinema” vibe:
-
We painted the back wall in deep navy.
-
Added framed vintage movie posters along the angled wall.
-
Installed a small snack station with a popcorn maker and mini fridge – a hit with the kids.
Step 7: Keeping the Room Multi-Functional
Since the triangular room also doubled as a guest bedroom:
-
We used foldable chairs for extra guests.
-
Chose a retractable screen so the wall was free when not watching movies.
-
Went for wireless surround speakers to avoid permanent cable runs.
Step 8: Choosing Equipment for Australian Conditions
-
230V-compatible electronics for local power.
-
Moisture-resistant projector housing (important in coastal Sydney).
-
All products purchased from Australian suppliers for warranty and support.
Budget Overview (AUD)
-
Projector + screen: $1,800
-
Sound system: $950
-
Seating: $1,200
-
Lighting & blinds: $650
-
Décor & acoustic panels: $400
Total: Around $5,000 for a fully customised home cinema.
Lessons Learned from This Case
-
Triangular rooms can become intimate, high-quality home theatres with clever planning.
-
Flexible, modular furniture is key.
-
Acoustic treatment is more important than in rectangular rooms.
Thinking of Building Your Own?
Whether your room is triangular, L-shaped, or tucked in an attic, Formovies.com.au can help you design a space that works for your home and lifestyle. From equipment selection to installation, we make sure every detail is tailored for Australian conditions.
SEO Keywords:
triangular room home theatre australia, small space home cinema setup, projector in angled room, home theatre design case study, australian home entertainment ideas, formovies home cinema