Ideas


Total Votes: 467 / Interest: 20002
Install Conduits
 
Install cable conduits everywhere you even could remotely anticipate a need for wires (of any kind). Cable conduits are separate from electrical conduit and are used to run speaker wire, video cable, network cable, etc. Install conduits in walls even if you do not anticipate using them right away.
 
Again, it is a lot easier to install a piece of conduit during construction than it is to fish speaker wire through a wall after the house is built. Terminate your conduits into junction boxes, cover with faceplates, and forget about them until you need them. Install at least one conduit and junction box at eye level in each room to accommodate a touch panel.
 
Wiring Closets
 
Build a small, centrally located closet for storing patch panels, distribution panels, media servers, etc.  Ensure your wiring closet is big enough to accommodate a rack with extra room for moving around.  Make sure you install ample cable conduits in this room because much of your wiring will terminate here.
 
Speakers
 
Even if you are not installing a whole house audio system initially, you should plan for it in the future and wire every room for in-ceiling or in-wall speakers. Trust us, at some point in the future you are going to want to add whole house audio to your home.