Building
an outdoor
cinema
Custom Cinema Solutions for Rooftops and Poolside Spaces
Avali specializes in designing and building high-quality outdoor cinema systems using LED video walls and weather-resistant audio setups tailored for each location.
Universal Device Connectivity
Massive LED Wall Sizes
Day & Night Brightness Control
Weatherproof Screens
High-Fidelity Sound System
Professional Calibration
Outdoor Movie Experience by the Pool and Rooftop Garden
A unique and unforgettable fusion of entertainment and relaxation
What is an LED screen?
An LED screen is made of modular panels that connect seamlessly to create a display of virtually any size. These panels can be customized to fit different spaces and are ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments.
Poolside Cinema Experience
Designing an audio-visual system for wet environments like swimming pools requires specialized equipment that differs significantly from traditional indoor setups.
In these outdoor and moisture-prone settings, high-brightness, waterproof LED screens are used to ensure durability and visibility under direct sunlight or nighttime ambient lighting.
Whether it’s for a luxury villa, resort, or private home, poolside cinemas deliver a unique blend of entertainment and ambiance, turning your pool area into a striking open-air theater.
Outdoor cinema sound system
For rooftop and poolside cinema experiences, we utilize specially designed satellite-style outdoor speakers. These speakers are waterproof, dustproof, and moisture-resistant, making them ideal for harsh environments. They perform reliably in scorching summer heat and freezing winter conditions, ensuring crystal-clear sound in all weather.
Method 1: Garden-Style Speaker Installation
The first method involves embedding speakers directly into the landscaping, blending them seamlessly with plants and garden decor—like flowers, as shown in the image. These discreetly placed speakers provide immersive audio without compromising the visual aesthetics of the space.
Method 2: Wall or Ceiling-Mounted Outdoor Speakers
mounting speakers on exterior walls or under ceilings
Method 3: Ceiling-Mounted Waterproof Speakers
Ceiling-mounted installation (ceiling speakers)
Subwoofer for Outdoor Cinemas
Subwoofers add depth and impact to sound by reproducing low-frequency effects (LFE) such as bass and cinematic rumbles — a crucial element in delivering a truly immersive outdoor cinema experience.
At Avali, we use buried subwoofers , designed to be installed underground in garden areas. Their design allows them to blend with landscaping while maintaining powerful audio output.
In spaces without soil, such as terraces or patios, subwoofers can be concealed inside planter boxes for a seamless and elegant appearance.
Outdoor Cinema Design for Roof Gardens and Pool Areas
Creating an unforgettable outdoor cinema requires careful selection of both image panels and installation design. At Avali, we ensure each solution is tailored to the environment and delivers the best viewing experience
Waterproof Display Panels
For areas exposed to water, dirt, or direct sunlight—such as pools and rooftop gardens—we use outdoor-rated waterproof LED panels. For indoor or covered spaces, standard indoor panels may be used instead.
Pixel Pitch & Image Quality
LED screen resolution is determined by the pixel pitch—the distance between each LED. A smaller pixel pitch results in sharper, higher-quality images, ideal for closer viewing distances.
Screen Size Selection
Based on the distance between the viewer and the image panel, the appropriate LED Screen size is selected in accordance with the standard. The location of the power and network cables is provided to the customer in the form of a design drawing according to the project needs.
Brightness Level
We match the screen brightness to your ambient lighting conditions to ensure a clear and vibrant image, even in daylight or brightly lit environments.
Installation Location
Selecting the right location is crucial for image visibility, audience comfort, and safety. Placement affects both the visual quality and overall experience.
Weatherproof Performance for Outdoor LED Displays
When installing an LED wall in an outdoor environment, weather resistance is critical for long-term reliability and safety.
Water & Dust Protection
Ensure the LED panels are rated IP65 or higher, which guarantees protection against water, dust, and harsh outdoor elements.
Operating Temperature Range
Outdoor LED displays must be compatible with the climate of your location. In regions like Ahvaz, Bandar Abbas, or other high-temperature cities, LED panels with high thermal tolerance must be selected. This is essential because:
Outdoor temperatures can be extreme.
LED panels generate additional internal heat during operation.
Electrical current increases the ambient temperature around the panel.
Choosing the right product ensures stable performance without overheating or shutdowns.
Avali provides high-quality, climate-ready LED panels engineered for tough environments.
Resolution & Pixel Pitch: Choosing the Right LED Clarity
The resolution of the image depends on the pixel pitch. The smaller the pixel pitch (such as 2.5P or 1.5P), the higher the image resolution and the LED wall is suitable for display from a close distance. If the LED wall is designed for a large space and a long distance, it is enough to buy an LED wall with a larger pixel pitch (such as 5P or 10P).
Choosing video wall size and seating distance
The image quality of an LED wall is directly related to its pixel pitch—the distance between adjacent pixels.
Smaller pixel pitch (1.5P or 2.5P) = Higher resolution
Ideal for close viewing distances and smaller venues, where viewers are near the screen.
Larger pixel pitch ( 5P or 10P) = Lower resolution
Suitable for large open spaces or long viewing distances, like drive-in cinemas or large event lawns.
Tip from Avali:
For rooftop cinemas, backyard theaters, or open-air events, selecting the proper pixel pitch ensures that the audience enjoys a clear, sharp, and immersive viewing experience—without overspending on unnecessary resolution.
Image Brightness
For projector-style setups in outdoor environments, the brightness level of the LED wall is crucial. Brightness is typically measured in nits (cd/m²). Recommended brightness levels are:
Indoor environments: 800 to 1500 nits
Outdoor environments: 4000 nits or higher
Higher brightness ensures better visibility under sunlight or ambient light conditions.
Choosing the Right Location for Outdoor Cinema Design
Selecting the proper location for an outdoor cinema design is highly important, as it can significantly impact image quality. For example, a very wide area may require using larger displays to ensure visibility for all viewers.
Also, if a large number of spectators are expected, consider using a tiered setup. The placement of the screen, the seating arrangement, and the audience’s viewing angles and distances from the display all matter. Greater distance between the screen and viewers improves both audio and visual quality.
Additionally, avoid placing the screen where distracting background movements or ambient elements are present. Instead, choose a spot where the projector or LED screen can be installed securely and without interference.
A Brief History of Open-Air Cinemas Worldwide
The first open-air cinema was launched in 1933 in the United States, in the state of New Jersey. By 1958, around 4,000 open-air cinemas had been established across the U.S. These venues allowed viewers to enjoy films from the comfort of their cars while sitting on compact seats in a dark space.
The first open-air cinema used an elevated platform or a tall, special speaker that synchronized the audio with the viewer’s car stereo. Later, in 1939, in response to sound issues, car-mounted speakers were introduced. In this way, people could listen to the film directly from their vehicle.
This cinema trend continued for decades until the COVID-19 pandemic led to a global revival of drive-in and outdoor cinemas. Countries like Germany, the U.S., and Australia saw a resurgence in open-air movie experiences.
Technical challenges and advanced Codali solutions
1- New solutions for light pollution management
In open-air cinema design, it’s essential to ensure that the screen’s brightness doesn’t disturb neighboring properties or public spaces. New strategies for light pollution control focus on containing light within the viewing area. These include using directional projection systems that limit light spill, installing angled or hooded screens that focus the image toward the audience, and incorporating barriers or landscaping elements such as tall plants or acoustic panels to block stray light. Additionally, selecting projectors with adjustable brightness and using screen materials with controlled reflectivity helps reduce unnecessary light dispersion. These solutions balance a vibrant viewing experience while maintaining harmony with the surrounding environment.
2-Acoustic Engineering Solutions in Open Spaces
Designing audio for outdoor cinemas comes with unique challenges due to the lack of reflective surfaces and the presence of environmental noise. To deliver clear and immersive sound in open spaces, acoustic engineering focuses on controlled speaker placement, directional audio systems, and zoning techniques that minimize sound loss and echo. Using line array speakers or focused dispersion technology helps direct sound toward the audience while avoiding noise spill into neighboring areas. Additionally, integrating natural acoustic barriers like hedges or sound-absorbing structures can improve clarity and reduce disturbances. These solutions ensure that every listener enjoys high-quality sound without excessive volume.
3- Managing climate challenges
Outdoor cinemas must be designed to withstand varying weather conditions—from intense sunlight to wind, rain, and humidity. Effective climate management begins with choosing weather-resistant AV equipment, including IP-rated projectors, speakers, and screens. Additionally, incorporating shading structures, waterproof covers, and drainage systems helps protect both the audience and the equipment. Climate-responsive design also considers seasonal temperature shifts, offering options such as portable heaters or misting fans to enhance comfort. Smart planning ensures year-round usability and a safe, enjoyable experience for all weather conditions.
4-Installation and Maintenance Optimization
In outdoor cinema projects, efficient installation and streamlined maintenance are critical to long-term success. Using modular AV components, pre-wired racks, and weatherproof enclosures significantly reduces setup time and simplifies future service. Design strategies that allow for easy access to wiring, power sources, and signal paths minimize operational disruptions. Additionally, implementing remote monitoring systems enables real-time diagnostics and proactive maintenance, reducing downtime and service costs. This approach ensures faster deployment, lower labor costs, and a more sustainable AV system over time.
| Key Area | Standard Outdoor Setup | Codali Engineered Solution |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Light Pollution Control | Basic brightness adjustment | Directional shielding, ambient light sensors |
| 2. Acoustic Performance | Basic speaker placement | Directional line arrays, acoustic landscape analysis |
| 3. Climate Resilience | Weatherproof casing | Full thermal design with sun/rain/wind protection |
| 4. Installation & Maintenance | Manual, labor-intensive setup | Modular design, remote diagnostics, easy service bays |
Avali's Successful Projects in Open-Air Cinema
1– National Park Cinema
Equipment: 30,000 lumen Barco projector + 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos sound system
Feature: Ability to operate in rainy conditions (IP65 Certified)
Results: 90% increase in audience satisfaction
2-Antalya Coastal Complex (International Cooperation)
20-meter salt-resistant display screen with nano-coating
Smart control system via mobile application
Future Studies: Future Developments in Industry
As the AV industry rapidly evolves, staying ahead requires foresight into emerging technologies and user behavior trends. Future developments will likely include further integration of AI in content delivery, enhanced sustainability in AV hardware, and immersive experiences driven by augmented reality (AR) and spatial audio. AVALI continuously monitors global innovations and collaborates with tech leaders to anticipate these shifts, ensuring that our solutions not only meet today’s needs but are also future-ready. This forward-thinking approach positions us to deliver cutting-edge experiences in both residential and commercial AV environments.
Why Choose Avali?
Avali stands at the intersection of innovation, reliability, and customization in the AV industry. Whether it’s designing advanced open-air cinema systems, providing acoustic solutions for challenging spaces, or integrating smart technologies into modern environments, Avali delivers with precision. Our commitment to quality, deep technical expertise, and client-focused approach ensures each project is both functional and future-ready. By choosing Avali, you’re not just selecting a service provider — you’re partnering with a team dedicated to elevating every audiovisual experience.
Contact Information for Free Consultation
Landline: (949) 775-8611
WhatsApp / Text: (949) 775-8611
Address: Irvine, California
Email: info@avalico.com
Projects Page: https://avalico.com/portfolio/
Let Avali bring innovation to your next audiovisual project.
Brand and warranty
Purchasing an LED wall is an important investment that requires thoughtful evaluation. Factors such as the user’s needs, installation location, brand reputation, and technical specifications — including resolution, brightness, and screen size — all play a key role in selecting the right product. Equally important is ensuring the product comes with a valid warranty. Always buy from a trusted and reputable seller to guarantee product quality, reliable performance, and strong after-sales support.