How to build an outdoor cinema at home

Bring Hollywood home

The perfect spot

To start off, you'll need to decide where to set up your cinema. Somewhere dry and protected from the elements is a must, and somewhere that isn't exposed to too much light or sound (like streetlamps and busy roads). You might want to hang up your projector screen (more on that in a bit) on a wall or fence.

And lastly, don't forget aesthetics: choose a place that can be transformed into something magical. Nothing will kill the mood faster than the wafting odours of the compost bin.

Projector and projector screen

Here comes the key player in your outdoor setup: the projector. You might want to purchase an outdoor or portable projector, but you don't need to. Projectors that require plugs can easily be set up outside with an extension lead (just make sure to not leave it outside in the rain).

The benefit to portable projectors is that they often come with better in-built speakers and some are even battery powered. If you think you're likely to take it on camping trips and rural setups, that could be a good move.

Now comes the best supporting actor: the projector screen. In a pinch, you can pin up a white, clean, and unwrinkled bedsheet to a fence or wall, so long as it's pulled taut. But the image quality and stability will significantly improve if you invest in a proper projector screen.

Make sure the screen you choose can either be securely attached to a wall or has a sturdy frame and ground stakes (in case it gets windy).

Blow-up projector screens also provide sturdy support, but they can't be erected as easily inside for cold-weather movie nights.