November 2012 Editor’s Letter

With technology today, accessing the web, video, music and more is as easy as reaching into our pocket or purse. Shouldn’t our homes offer the same convenience? They can. Home entertainment technology has kept pace with our busy and ever-changing lifestyles, enabling us to enjoy larger and higher definition televisions and theater-quality sound in any room. At the touch of a button, home automation systems can be programmed to dim the lights, close the shades and play a new release, turning a living room into a movie theater.

While dedicated home theater rooms still offer a major wow factor and advanced capabilities, media rooms are a big trend because so much of the technology is wireless or easy to conceal with panels and other treatments. The price point for such systems have come down too, making streaming a favorite TV show or You Tube clip a reality for more and more homeowners. On top of that, media rooms can be located anywhere in the home, from the main living area near the kitchen to the kids’ play area upstairs to outdoor living spaces.

It’s all about creating an experience that suits your lifestyle. You don’t have to be a techie to enjoy our feature on the subject in this issue, where you’ll find tips for a basic media room setup—as well as advanced options—and maybe even a few gadgets for your wish list. However, you should consult a professional, from an organization such as the Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (CEDIA), for any projects that involve a significant investment or require specialized knowledge such as electrical work. The pros can help you select the best systems for your space and safe setup.

Though our thoughts turn inside the home this time of year, cold weather doesn’t have to mean a boring landscape. Our winter landscaping feature in this issue will show you which plants to choose for color, texture and interest throughout the season.

3 Things You’ll Learn This Month

1. How to freshen up the look of your fireplace and hearth
2. That home theaters can outperform commercial theaters
3. Some popular edible winter plants include kale, colorful cabbages, mustards and chards

Coming in December

Kitchen & Bath Issue featuring:

• Atlanta chefs in their home kitchens
• Kitchen and bath project planner
• Atlanta kitchen and bath makeovers
• The latest kitchen and bath products

Read the November 2012 issue of Atlanta Home Improvement magazine online now.