apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

A - Ah, you've come to the right place. Especially if you're looking to keep it under $1000 bucks, we've definitely got your answer. And, well, for those looking to spend a little more, we've got answers for you too. Now, let's get started:

THE CHEAPO ROUTE:

• Consider an extra-long HDMI cable ($20) (and speaker cables if you have surround sound). Then, select one of the numerous wire hiding solutions we've featured here on Unplggd. Your other option for hiding speaker cables could be using Flatwire and paint over it to keep it completely hidden.


• For the most part, you can just stack your electronics in your closet, but make sure to have a buffer zone between A/V receivers' vents - they tend to get very warm, very quickly.


• Last but not least, you'll need Logitech's Harmony 900 ($399) which includes a long range receiver and a remote controller (See our featured article here).

THE LESS CHEAPO ROUTE:

• Wireless HDMI is an excellent solution for those looking to build remote entertainment systems. They're still rather pricey ($850 for Philips' box), but they allow you to run a signal to your TV without the need of an extra-long HDMI cable running along your floorboards.


• To organize, we suggest separating electronics accordingly by function (games, media, DVR) and using a shelving system to keep the clean look and provide plenty of space for ventilation


• Again, you'll need the Logitech's Harmony 900 ($399) to get your universal controller to work through walls.

THE BIG BALLER ROUTE:

• You can install a custom ventilation system into your closet to house all of your home automation equipment. The cooling system will run about $500 give or take. Server racks cost an average of about $400. The rest of the home automation equipment will cost about $1000 (IR receivers, remotes, and wireless implementation of all your home tech), if you shop wisely. Otherwise, we've seen them run up to $8000 if you get it all professionally installed, wired, and set up.