It isn't exactly the family room, but it certainly is a place where family and friends can gather for an ultra-comfortable movie theater experience or high-impact video game entertainment.

Increasingly, media rooms are required elements of custom homes as AV technology has become more sophisticated and the prices of high-tech audio, video and television components have become more affordable. The editors at Custom Builder magazine are seeing media rooms placed just about anywhere in the home, from the lower level to the second or even third floor.

In the Spotlight

To enhance the home theater experience, designers are paying as much attention to the detail of the entryways to these speciality rooms (left) as they are to the room itself. This 800-square-foot private theater (below) found in a custom home in metropolitan Washington, D.C., also has a layer of LV1 sound proofing above the ceiling so that the bedrooms above wouldn't be disturbed by users.

Front Row Seating

Several rows of spacious, cushy seats are commonly found in home theaters, as are decorative wall sconces. You'll also find wet bars and pantries for easy access to food and beverages. Custom builders will often sub-contract design and construction of these rooms to firms that specialize in home theaters.

That's Entertainment

Movie Time

This home theater found in a custom home in Berlin, Md. that was designed by Christopher Pattey of  Becker Morgan Group boasts a Boardwalk Carnival theme, as reflected by fanciful illustrations that rim the top of the wall. Luxurious leather chairs with a second row on a raised platform guarantees comfort and the best view.