You’ve wanted a dedicated space in your Seattle home for movies and shows for a while, and you’re finally ready to take on the project. Maybe you’ve purchased some gear, picked out couches online, and already have a lineup of films you’re going to enjoy once the setup is complete.

But before you get started on your media room or home theater design, be sure to steer clear of the following common design mistakes if you really want a high-performance and immersive entertainment room. And if you begin to feel overwhelmed, don’t worry—our home theater experts are here to help.