The ultimate outdoor cinema

How to turn your patio into the ultimate cinema

Does the drive-in movies bring back fond memories for you too? It’s the place where many of us saw our first movie on the big screen. The best part was that we got to do it in our pyjamas, either enjoying a warm summer night in the open-air, or rugged up in the back of the ute with doonas. Enjoying hanging out with friends and family, watching a good movie on that huge screen. Those memories last a lifetime!

​These days outdoor movie theatres are rare. That doesn’t mean we can’t recreate the experience. It’s easier than you think, and you don’t have to break the bank to do it.

Here’s what you’ll need to make it happen:

No old-fashioned movie reel needed
A projector is probably the first thing you’ll need to get the ball rolling. That’s an intimidating prospect for most people. In the past, a good projector would cost more than a thousand dollars. Sure, you can still spend that kind of money if it’s in your budget. There’s no doubt the quality of the picture will improve, but you don’t have to spend anywhere near that nowadays. The prices have dropped dramatically in the last few years. You can now purchase a decent machine between $100 and $300. If you’re willing to take your chances with a used system, you could potentially spend less.
Depending on your cash flow, another option is to purchase a big 75”, 85”, or even 100” tv for a few $1000’s. They are much more expensive than a projector, but you won’t have to worry about changing the bulbs. The life of a bulb is usually about 2000 hours, with some projector bulbs lasting longer than this.

The wall
If a projector is the option you’ll be going with, the next step is to think about what you’re going to use as the white wall. If you don’t have a physical white wall to use, a simple white bed sheet can work wonders. Just be sure that – the sheet is white, ironed, and tightly strapped on a flat surface.

Audio options
Most projectors have some kind of built-in speaker system. On less expensive models the quality of the sound isn’t impressive. Fortunately, many of them are also Bluetooth compatible. That will allow you to hook up your own external audio without the hassle of wires.  You can use a system you already own, or purchase a Bluetooth speaker to use with your system.

The source
After putting the puzzle pieces of your audiovisual system together, you still need a source for movies. All projectors these days have HDMI inputs for you to plug in a DVD player, your favorite streaming stick or even your laptop. It is that simple!

Comfort
Now that all the fiddly stuff is dealt with, you’ll have to decide what to laze on to watch these flicks. Seating options for your new outdoor family entertainment center are only limited by your imagination. You can simply throw a couple of sleeping bags and some pillows on the lawn. If you prefer sitting, beanbag chairs are a great option. Recliner chairs, or simple chairs with extra padding are great too. Just be sure to get comfy. You don’t want a sore bum half way through a great movie!

As long as the weather cooperates, you’re in for a fabulous night! This could be the new weekend tradition with the family?

​If you don’t have any kind of appropriate zone for this kind of thing, but would love one, call In Style Patios and Decks today on 0436 007 776 for a free quote. We can design and build you the pinnacle of outdoor design – a pavilion. Speak to one of our design consultants today!