So my wife and I walked into the furniture store to look at a specific set of washer and dryer, and ended up also ordering two recliners for the living room and two couches for the movie theater. And so it was time to bite the bullet and construct the riser.
I had been looking casually at individual/configurable theater recliners and sofas. Ultimately I decided on sofas, as I/we like the option to be able to lay all the way across. The two outer seats have power recline, and the middle seat folds down in to an armrest/shelf/pocket/cupholders/etc with little map lights up in the headrest. They are Ashley Party Time sofas if you're interested. Anyway, we got a great deal and they were delivered at no charge.
The riser steps are each 8" tall (bottom step matches the landing at the bottom of the basement stairs, just outside the door to the theater). There will be lights along the sides of the upper level and down in front of the two lower steps. You can see the boxes in some of the pictures. I'll post some more when the lights are installed.
The couches fit great and so far viewing as excellent from all seats. Constructing the riser was a big task but it was good to have some motivation to get it done. In time for Super Bowl too.
I am happy with the function and configuration of the room, so the rest is cosmetic. The studded walls will be insulated and drywalled, as will the ceiling. Then it's a matter of proper lighting and closing everything off with fabric panels I described in earlier posts, and carpet last. I will probably do some kind of diffusers along the back wall as well.
Then, you know, upgrades...
