Spacious Back Bar Adds Splash of Class to Maryland Home Theater

As much a place to host as it is to escape, this unassuming space provides an engrossing viewing experience to client and guest alike.
Published: April 11, 2025

Step into the lower levels of this unassuming home out in Bowie, Maryland, and you will find a treasure trove, courtesy of Gramophone. Taking an underutilized space within the client’s home, Gramophone transformed the once drab, dusty walls into a home theater that holds just as many thoughtful design touches–such as the spacious back bar–as it does fervent sports fans.

In fact, the main goal of the client was to have a space that could host both family and friends for sports events, while also being a nice escape for the main couple.

Theater Back Bar Offers Extra Space for Socializing

Utilizing its in-house design/build team, Gramophone developed a concept for a theater with two rows of seating as well as a back bar for additional viewing and socializing. The client, already being an avid audiophile, provided the speakers that would flank the Stewart CIMA 123-inch film screen. Accompanied by SVS subs, as well as Totem Acoustic ATMOS speakers, the entire system provides the proper punch that Gramophone says helps to add to the whole theater experience.

Custom home theater back bar by Gramophone in Bowie, Maryland home.
Courtesy/Gramophone

It all comes together in the end to “create a sound field that envelopes you,” according to Leiticia Blundi of the firm. A mounted Sony VPL-XW5000ES projector then fulfills the video component, providing all encompassing visuals to match the sound.

Majority of AV Equipment Remains Tucked Behind Theater Walls

It’s not just the home theater system itself that makes the project impressive, however. Its existence tucked away in hidden panel details along the wall, the rack room sits virtually unnoticeable to the casual observes so that as the game rages on, there isn’t a trace of technology to detract from the overall experience.

“We were able to put together an incredible game plan that allowed this project to flow smoothly. Together with our team and our trade partners, we were able to take this unfinished area in our client’s lower level and convert it into their dream theater.”

Systems & Equipment

  • Stewart CIMA 123-inch screen
  • Sony VPL-XW5000ES projector
  • Totem ATMOS speakers
  • SVS subwoofers
  • McIntosh MX123 A/V Processor
  • McIntosh MC207 Home Theater Amplifier
  • Chief Projector mount
Hanging subwoofer on accent wall with decorative moldings in custom home theater by Gramophone Bowie, Maryland.
Courtesy/Gramophone
Custom home theater back bar by Gramophone in Bowie, Maryland home.
Courtesy/Gramophone
Custom home theater back bar by Gramophone in Bowie, Maryland home.
Courtesy/Gramophone

This project is part of our coverage for the 2024 CE Pro Home of the Year Awards. Presented annually at CEDIA Expo, the Home of the Year Awards represent the best of the best smart home innovations within the CEDIA channel. If you have a project you would like to submit to the Home of the Year Awards, consider following CE Pro if you aren’t already for when we announce the next submission round.

Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series