The Vision
Our client envisioned a high-end, cutting-edge home theatre that seamlessly blended advanced 4K/8K visuals, immersive Dolby Atmos sound, and a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. The goal: maximize the physical size of the underground room while keeping all technology virtually invisible.
The Challenge
This unique project was set in an underground concrete room measuring 6.5m by 5m. With 400mm poured concrete floors, tilt-slab walls, and a 200mm concrete ceiling reinforced with steel ribs, the space presented both challenges and opportunities.
The underground setting limited ceiling height, making every millimetre of headroom vital. Meanwhile, the client’s design brief demanded that eleven speakers and even four 15” subwoofers integrate discreetly, leaving no visible tech to interrupt the clean aesthetic.
Our Solution
To meet the dual priorities of high performance and design harmony, we implemented Sonance Invisible Speakers. These state-of-the-art speakers were installed flush into standard-depth timber framing, blending perfectly with the room’s structure.
Audio Design:
Wide sound dispersion: The Sonance speakers’ broad audio coverage ensured an enveloping sound experience in every corner of the room.
Wall-mounted speakers: Positioned behind a perforated screen and discreetly integrated into decorative wall pillars under subtle up/down lighting.
Theatre System Highlights:
Audio Setup:
11 x Sonance IS10 speakers (front, side, and rear walls)
4 x Sonance IS8 ceiling speakers (front and rear effects)
4 x Sonance IS15 subwoofers
Amplification provided by Sonance DSP750 MKII and DSP8-130 MKII amplifiers.
Sources included Apple TV 4K, a 4K Blu-ray player, and gaming consoles including Xbox and PlayStation.
Visual Experience:
A Stewart StudioTek 100 perforated screen paired with a recessed JVC-NZ7 laser projector delivered sharp, cinema-grade visuals.
Lighting & Control:
Lighting: The Lutron HomeWorks QS system featured dimmable LED ceiling and wall lights and RGBW strip lighting with customizable DMX colour presets.
Control: Centralized iPad control via an IPort wall charger and seamless voice integration with Apple Siri.
Comfort & Ventilation:
A Mitsubishi wall-mounted cassette provided efficient air conditioning. Near-silent commercial-grade fans ensured fresh air circulation and adjusted dynamically based on use. Lutron-controlled ventilation systems safeguarded equipment longevity.
Power Protection:
To protect this state-of-the-art system, we installed SurgeX twin 15-amp conditioners, ensuring uninterrupted performance.
The Result
The final result is a stunning, minimalist home theatre that delivers a fully immersive entertainment experience. The client’s vision of high performance and subtle sophistication was realized in every detail, proving that exceptional design and cutting-edge technology can coexist beautifully.
This cinema is available for demonstration for specifiers by appointment.
