Cinema PA53 | Best Home Cinema, Finalist

Die Zwei - Heimkino, the celebrated integrator, has transformed the top floor of this architectural jewel into a state-of-the-art home cinema. The renovation, conducted by builder Double Q and with electrical and KNX programming by Q-Data Service, marries modern technology with the villa’s ageless charm, creating a high-tech sanctuary that respects and enhances its historical context.

The story begins with a client deeply passionate about cinema, who, upon acquiring this historical property, envisioned a small but sophisticated cinema room. Initial attempts by the renovation team to set up a basic home cinema did not meet the client's high standards, especially their interest in WaveForming technology and the expertise of a Trinnov partner. Die Zwei - Heimkino was engaged in the summer of 2023, bringing with them a deep understanding of DBA-based cinema rooms and a collaborative spirit that meshed well with the client's technical background.

As the client and their wife, a respected German movie director, were intimately involved in the design process, numerous plans, renderings, and virtual reality (VR) sessions ensured the final outcome was a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. The room’s design, a bold black and red homage to early 20th-century theatres, stands out not only for its visual impact but also for its technological prowess. While the historical integrity of the villa posed certain constraints, innovative solutions, such as replicating original doors to accommodate wide and surround speakers and recreating the historic stucco ceiling border, ensured the seamless integration of modern elements.

At the heart of this project lies a 97" LG TV, chosen over larger LED walls or projectors for its fit with the room's scale and the client’s preferences. The audio setup, a critical component for the client who has struggled with bass reproduction in other cinema rooms, includes an 8+8 sub array setup, Perlisten S7i series speakers for dynamic front sound, and JBL Synthesis in-wall/in-ceiling speakers to maintain a sleek profile. The result is a space that offers superb immersion and precise bass, creating an unparalleled auditory experience.

Ease of use was paramount, leading to a custom-programmed Crestron Home control system tailored specifically for the cinema room, with functionality and design reflecting the client's desires. This bespoke approach extended to the room’s color scheme, with the touchpanel colors meticulously matched to the room’s décor. Acoustic treatments were thoughtfully implemented, with a thick carpet addressing ceiling reflections and minimal absorbers masked as poster frames to maintain the room's aesthetic.

Thermal management, a significant challenge given the room's compact size and extensive equipment list, was adeptly handled by using adjacent small chambers as equipment rooms, complete with temperature-controlled exhaust fans to ensure optimal performance without disrupting the villa’s historical features.

This project not only highlights technical achievements but also respects the villa's heritage. By working closely with partners like ARLED Solutions for fabric frames and navigating the intricate balance between preserving historical elements and integrating modern technology, Die Zwei - Heimkino has created a space that honors the past while embracing the future.