Architectural Considerations for Barco in Orange County, CA Homes

In luxury home design, performance and aesthetics should never be at odds. For architects and interior designers working on high-end residences in Orange County, integrating technology like Barco home cinema projectors requires thoughtful coordination between design intent and system performance.

At Oasis Smart Homes, we specialize in seamlessly integrating Barco projection systems into homes throughout Newport Coast, Laguna Beach, Corona del Mar, and surrounding communities, ensuring these high-performance systems enhance rather than interrupt architectural beauty.

Whether you’re planning a dedicated theater, a multi-use media lounge, or a hidden projection system in a living space, here are the key architectural considerations when specifying Barco.

1. Space Planning and Projector Throw Distance

Barco’s precision optics require specific throw distances based on screen size, resolution, and lens type. Early coordination is essential to ensure proper projector placement and sightlines.

Best Practices:

• Identify the projector model and lens early in the design phase
• Coordinate ceiling height, projector housing, and screen location
• Allow for maintenance access in cabinetry or soffit design

2. Ventilation and Thermal Management

Barco projectors are engineered for reliability but still produce heat during extended use. Ensuring proper ventilation and thermal isolation from other electronics extends the system’s lifespan and ensures silent operation.

Architectural Integration Tips:

• Include quiet fan systems or HVAC supply/return in projector housings
• Use acoustically treated projector enclosures with discreet ventilation grilles
• Avoid placing the projector in tight, unventilated ceiling spaces

3. Acoustics and Sound Isolation

While Barco’s projectors operate quietly, their inclusion in a dedicated theater or multi-purpose media room must consider acoustic performance holistically.

Oasis recommends:

• Designing projector enclosures with sound isolation
• Locating HVAC returns away from projector locations
• Coordinating with acoustic treatments, speaker layout, and room symmetry

4. Hidden or Architectural Mounting

Many Orange County clients prefer technology that blends with or disappears into the architecture. Barco’s premium models support motorized lifts, recessed housings, or rear-projection layouts that maintain the room’s visual integrity.

Smart Design Details:

• Use ceiling lifts or retractable mounting systems
• Plan soffits or projector alcoves that align with ceiling design
• Use automated masking screens and cabinetry to conceal equipment when not in use

5. Screen Size, Sightlines, and Lighting Control

Barco’s projectors support large-format, high-resolution displays, but architectural harmony depends on viewing angles, seating layout, and light control.

For best visual impact:

• Align projector resolution to screen size and seating distance
• Coordinate with Lutron motorized shades and blackout treatments
• Include adjustable ambient lighting zones with dimmable scenes

6. Infrastructure and Control Integration

Barco systems thrive when paired with a robust smart home infrastructure. Oasis Smart Homes works closely with the builder and design team to ensure the electrical, low-voltage, networking, and control systems are fully coordinated.

We integrate Barco seamlessly into systems powered by:

• Savant
• Crestron
• Control4
• Josh.ai voice control

This allows clients to enjoy one-touch operation of their entire theater, including projector, lighting, climate, and AV components.

7. Outdoor and Alternative Projection Use Cases

For unique homes in coastal areas like Newport Coast and Laguna Beach, we’ve also integrated Barco systems in open-air media pavilions, covered outdoor theaters, and retractable living room screen environments.

These projects require:

• Specialized ambient light-rejecting (ALR) screens
• Weather-protected projector enclosures
• Smart shading and lighting for daytime or evening use

Trusted Collaboration for Luxury Design Professionals

Oasis Smart Homes brings over 30 years of experience partnering with architects, builders, and interior designers across Orange County and Scottsdale. Our in-house team handles all aspects of integration, from lighting and electrical planning to AV system design, installation, and support.

What We Offer:

• Early-phase design and engineering collaboration
• Studio-level technology demonstrations for clients
• Clear documentation and builder coordination
• White-glove installation and calibration
• 24/7 private client care and ongoing service

Let's Plan Your Next Project

When thoughtfully integrated, Barco projection systems offer unmatched performance without compromising design. Whether you’re building a modern blufftop estate or restoring a classic home in Pelican Hill, Oasis Smart Homes ensures technology elevates every space.

Call our Scottsdale studio at (480) 907-7095 or our Orange County studio at (949) 210-9440 to schedule your private smart home consultation!