How to Build a Home Theater Riser

Determine the length and width of the riser. If you are placing a sofa on the riser, the length should be only 2 to 3 inches longer than the length of the sofa. The width of the riser should be 4 to 5 inches wider than the sofa. This will provide space for people to step up onto the riser. Make sure to measure the sofa at its widest part. The bottom may only be 30 inches, but the top may lean back, adding another 6 inches. If your sofa is touching a wall, it will need 36 inches of space, so your riser will need to be at least 40 inches wide.

Cut your materials to size once you have determined the length and width of the riser. Your plywood should measure the exact length and width of your measurements. You will also need two 2-by-6 studs cut the length of your riser and two to ten 2-by-6 studs cut the width of your riser.

Assemble your riser frame. Attach two of the shorter studs to the ends of the two longer studs with nails. This will make your basic outside rectangular frame. The studs should be standing on their sides, so that they are 6 inches tall. This will be the height of your riser. Place a 2-by-6 stud across the width of the frame every 10 to 12 inches and attach with nails. This will support the weight of the furniture and people who will be sitting on your riser.

Attach the plywood to the frame. Lay the plywood over the frame, lining up the edges, and nail into place. Place nails every 3 to 4 inches.

Cover your riser. You can paint the riser to match the decor in your room or simply cover the riser with a piece of fabric that drapes to the floor before you place your furniture on the riser. Some people choose to carpet their riser so that it blends into the floor. This can easily be accomplished by using lightweight carpeting and carpet tape.