Experience the ultimate in entertainment and relaxation with these ten exquisite living rooms showcasing beautifully integrated TV designs.
Table of Contents
TV Over Fireplace
A classic setup where the TV is mounted over the fireplace, creating a focal point in the room. The wires are hidden behind the wall for a clean look.
The idea of mounting a TV over a fireplace is a classic setup that can create a focal point in a room. This arrangement allows the TV to be elegantly positioned above the fireplace, providing a central visual element. To maintain a clean and tidy appearance, the wires can be hidden behind the wall, ensuring a seamless and organized look.
Some safety precautions to consider when mounting a TV above a fireplace:
- Heat Exposure: Fireplaces can generate heat that may damage the TV. To prevent this, ensure proper ventilation by installing a shelf or mantel between the TV and the fire to create a buffer zone. Alternatively, consider using a heat shield behind the TV for added protection
- Viewing Angle: Mount the TV at the right height to avoid neck strain and discomfort. Ideally, the center of the screen should be at eye level when seated to ensure a comfortable viewing experience
- TV Mount: Choose a sturdy wall mount designed for the TV’s size and weight. Consider a flat or flush mount for a sleek look or an adjustable arm mount for flexibility in adjusting the TV angle
- Wiring: Ensure proper wiring management, especially if the fireplace is made of brick or stone. Running wires on top of the facade may not be visually appealing and could pose safety risks. Consult with professionals if needed for safe and code-compliant wiring installation
- Fireplace Type: Consider the type of fireplace you have (wood-burning, gas, electric) as each presents different challenges. Wood-burning fireplaces, for example, can produce high heat and smoke that may damage the TV, while electric fireplaces are generally safer for TV mounting
Pair a TV with Built-ins
Incorporating a TV into a wall of built-in shelving is a stylish way to balance a room while keeping the fireplace as the focal point. This setup allows the TV to be seamlessly integrated into the living space, ensuring that it doesn’t dominate the room. By utilizing built-in shelving, you can create a cohesive look that combines functionality with aesthetics, providing storage space for components and accessories while maintaining a visually appealing layout
Some design considerations when incorporating a TV into built-in shelving:
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation for the TV to prevent overheating, especially when placed near a fireplace. Installing a shelf or mantel between the TV and the fire can create a buffer zone to block heat. Alternatively, consider building a recess to mount the TV within for ventilation.
- Wall Mount: Choose a sturdy wall mount designed for the TV’s size and weight. Consider a flat or flush mount for a sleek look or an adjustable arm mount for flexibility in adjusting the TV angle.
- TV Height: Mount the TV at the right height to ensure comfortable viewing. Ideally, the center of the screen should be at eye level when seated to prevent neck strain
- TV Angle: Avoid mounting the TV at a steep angle to prevent eye strain. Mount it facing straight ahead or slightly downwards if it’s slightly higher than eye level
- Shelving Design: Divide the built-in shelving into a base and upper cabinet to break up the unit’s mass and accommodate varying depths of storage. The base can feature drawers or doors to conceal electronics and accessories, while the upper shelves can be designed to accommodate books and decorative items.
Hang a Large Painting on the Opposite Wall
When incorporating a TV into built-in shelving, one design consideration is to hang a large painting on the opposite wall to balance the room. By placing the TV neatly in the middle of a wall of built-ins and pairing it with a substantial painting on the opposite wall, you can create a visually appealing and balanced space. This arrangement allows the TV to be integrated seamlessly into the built-ins while the large painting on the opposite wall serves as a complementary focal point, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the room
Some common mistakes to avoid when hanging a large painting:
- Hanging Art Too High: One common mistake is hanging the painting too high on the wall. Ideally, the center of the artwork should be at eye level, which is typically between 57 and 60 inches from the floor. This positioning ensures that the painting is easily visible and well-balanced within the room.
- Poor Spacing Between Pieces: Another mistake to avoid is inadequate spacing between multiple pieces of art or between the painting and surrounding furniture. Proper spacing is crucial for creating a visually appealing display. For gallery walls, large pieces should be hung 2-3 inches apart, while smaller pieces should be 1.5-2.5 inches apart. Additionally, the artwork should be about 4-6 inches above the furniture to maintain a harmonious relationship between the pieces.
- Wrong Location for Artwork: Selecting the wrong location for the painting can also detract from its impact. Consider the placement carefully to ensure the artwork makes a statement in the room. For example, a large artwork above a bed or in a living room can create a striking focal point, while a gallery wall can transform a hallway. Additionally, the framing of the artwork should complement its location
Embed It
Create a seamless look by embedding the TV into a wall niche, making it appear as part of the architecture.
Embedding a TV into a wall niche is a design technique that creates a seamless and integrated look, making the TV appear as part of the architecture. This approach allows the TV to blend harmoniously with the surrounding space, minimizing its visual impact when not in use. By incorporating the TV into a wall niche, you can achieve a clean and modern aesthetic while maximizing space utilization. This design choice can also help conceal wires and cables, contributing to a clutter-free and polished appearance in the room.
Some safety precautions to take when embedding a TV into a wall niche:
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation within the wall niche to prevent heat buildup, which can damage the TV and pose a fire hazard. Consider incorporating vents or openings to allow for airflow and heat dissipation
- Electrical Safety: Consult with an electrician to ensure that any electrical wiring within the wall niche is safely rerouted and installed. Properly run and secure wiring is essential to prevent electrical hazards and ensure the TV operates safely.
- Secure Mounting: Use a sturdy and appropriate wall mount to securely attach the TV within the wall niche. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and ensure that the mount is properly anchored to the wall to prevent the TV from falling or shifting
- Weight Capacity: Confirm that the wall niche and mounting structure can support the weight of the TV. Exceeding weight limits can lead to instability and potential safety risks. Choose an amount and niche that can safely accommodate the TV’s weight
- Avoiding Obstacles: Ensure that the wall niche is clear of any obstacles or debris that could interfere with the TV’s installation or pose a safety hazard. Keep the area clean and free of clutter to prevent accidents during the embedding process.
Surround It With Bookshelves
Utilize a wall of bookshelves to house the TV, adding color and personality to the space.
Surrounding a TV with bookshelves is a creative way to incorporate the TV into the decor while adding color and personality to the space. By flanking the television with free-standing or built-in bookcases, you can visually frame the TV and balance its weight within the room. This design approach not only provides storage for books, movies, or decorative objects but also creates a cohesive and stylish look that integrates the TV seamlessly into the overall aesthetic of the room
When surrounding a TV with bookshelves, there are several design elements to consider:
- Balance: Ensure the bookshelves on either side of the TV are symmetrical to create a sense of balance and harmony in the room. This symmetry helps frame the TV and prevents the arrangement from feeling lopsided
- Color Coordination: Coordinate the color of the bookshelves with the TV stand or the overall color scheme of the room. This color consistency ties the elements together and creates a cohesive look
- Decorative Objects: Use the bookshelves to display decorative objects such as vases, sculptures, or plants. These objects add visual interest and personality to the space, enhancing the overall design
- Storage: Consider the practical aspect of the bookshelves by utilizing them for storage. You can store books, movies, or other items on the shelves to keep the space organized and functional
- Lighting: Incorporate lighting within the bookshelves to highlight the display items and create a warm ambiance in the room. LED strip lights or small spotlights can be installed to illuminate the shelves and add depth to the design.
Add Black Decor
Ensure the TV isn’t the only black object in the room to make it blend in. Contrast the TV with other black elements in the room for a cohesive look.
Based on the provided sources, incorporating black decor elements in the room can help the TV blend in seamlessly and create a cohesive look. By ensuring that the TV is not the only black object in the room, you can contrast it with other black elements to enhance its integration into the overall design scheme. This approach adds depth and visual interest to the space, preventing the TV from standing out as the sole dark element. By incorporating various black decor pieces such as furniture, accessories, or accent walls, you can create a harmonious and balanced aesthetic that ties the room together
To incorporate black into a living room without making it look too dark, consider the following tips:
- Pair with Light Colors: Balance black with light colors like white, ivory, or pale gray to create contrast and prevent the room from feeling overly dark. Light-colored furniture, trim, or accessories can help brighten up the space and create a harmonious balance.
- Accent Wall: Opt for a single black accent wall instead of painting all walls black. This approach allows you to introduce the dramatic effect of black without overwhelming the room. Pairing a black accent wall with lighter-colored walls can create a striking focal point while maintaining a sense of brightness in the space.
- Incorporate Mirrors: Use mirrors strategically to reflect light and create the illusion of a brighter space. Mirrors can help bounce light around the room, making it feel more open and airy. Mixing and matching different shapes of mirrors can add visual interest and enhance the overall ambiance of the room
- Pop of Color: Tie in the black walls with pops of the same color throughout the room. Accent pieces like lamps, frames, vases, or bookcases in shades of black can create visual interest and unique illusions in the room. Incorporating different shades of black can add depth and texture to the space
- Lighting: Creative lighting with lamps and other light sources can change the mood of the room and prevent it from feeling too dark. Strategic placement of lamps and lighting fixtures can help illuminate the space and highlight different design elements, creating a welcoming and well-lit environment.
Backlight the Built-Ins
Incorporating soft backlighting into built-in shelving surrounding a wall-mounted TV can create a visually appealing media center. This design element adds a touch of ambiance and sophistication to the space, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the room. By backlighting the built-ins, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere while highlighting the display items and adding depth to the design.
Some ways to incorporate a sound system into a media center with built-in shelving:
- Speaker Placement: Position the speakers strategically within the built-in shelving to optimize sound quality. Center the left and right speakers with the TV for a balanced audio experience. Consider placing the speakers inside the cabinetry or outside on the wall/ceiling, depending on the aesthetics and acoustics of the room.
- Integrated Design: Integrate the speakers seamlessly into the built-in shelving to maintain a cohesive and streamlined look. Design the shelving units to accommodate the speakers without compromising the overall aesthetic of the media center
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation for the speakers to prevent overheating and maintain optimal performance. Consider incorporating vents or openings in the shelving units to allow for airflow and prevent the speakers from getting too hot
- Concealment: Conceal the speaker wires within the built-in shelving to maintain a clean and organized appearance. Utilize cable management solutions to hide the wires and create a clutter-free environment around the sound system.
Create a Niche
Design a symmetrical TV wall with built-in closed cabinetry to hide clutter and open shelves for display, softening the tech’s presence in the room.
Designing a symmetrical TV wall with built-in closed cabinetry and open shelves can create a balanced and visually appealing setup while softening the presence of technology in the room. By incorporating closed cabinetry, you can effectively hide clutter such as electronic devices, cables, and accessories, maintaining a clean and organized appearance. The open shelves provide space for displaying decorative items, books, or personal belongings, adding a touch of warmth and personality to the room. This combination of closed and open storage helps create a harmonious and functional TV wall that blends seamlessly with the overall decor, minimizing the focus on technology in the space.
To soften the presence of technology in a living room with a symmetrical TV wall featuring consider following tips:
- Concealment: Utilize the closed cabinetry to hide electronic components and devices when not in use, keeping them out of sight and minimizing their visual impact in the room. This approach helps maintain a clean and organized appearance while reducing the clutter associated with technology.
- Integrated Design: Integrate technology seamlessly into the built-in shelving and cabinetry to create a cohesive look that blends with the overall decor of the room. Concealing devices within the cabinetry when not in use can help them fade into the background and maintain a streamlined aesthetic.
- Invisible Mounting: Opt for mounting solutions that allow electronic devices to be installed directly onto or tucked within the wall or ceiling surface, creating a discreet profile. This approach helps minimize the visual impact of technology and contributes to a clean and uncluttered look in the room
- Discreet Displays: Consider using motorized projection screens that can remain hidden until needed, freeing up space and reducing the visual presence of large displays when not in use. Choose design-friendly housings for screens and other devices that complement the room’s style and contribute to a clean aesthetic
Use Bold Color
Opt for bold shades in the room to make the TV less prominent, allowing it to blend into the background when not in use.
Incorporating bold colors in the room is a creative way to make the TV less prominent and help it blend into the background when not in use. By opting for bold shades on the walls, furniture, or decor elements, you can draw attention away from the TV and create a dynamic visual impact in the space. Bold colors can add depth, personality, and vibrancy to the room, shifting the focus away from the TV and creating a cohesive and engaging environment. This design strategy allows the TV to seamlessly integrate into the overall aesthetic of the room, enhancing its presence without overpowering the space.
Some bold color options for a living room with a symmetrical TV wall featuring built-in closed cabinetry:
- Red: Bold shades of red can add warmth and vibrancy to the room, creating a striking contrast against the white or neutral tones of the cabinetry and shelves. Red can make a bold statement and infuse energy into the space.
- Navy Blue: Deep navy blue tones can bring a sense of sophistication and depth to the room. This color choice can provide a rich backdrop for the TV wall, adding a touch of elegance and modernity to the overall design.
- Bold Green: Opting for a bold shade of green can introduce a refreshing and nature-inspired element to the living room. Green hues can create a calming and harmonious atmosphere while adding a pop of color that complements the white cabinetry and shelves.
- Dark Gray: Dark gray tones can offer a contemporary and sleek look to the room. Gray is a versatile color that pairs well with various design styles and can help create a sophisticated and cohesive aesthetic in the space.
Frame It Out
Choose a TV that fits the space above the mantel and frame it elegantly for a clean and well-proportioned look.
To create a clean and well-proportioned look for the TV space above the mantel, it is recommended to choose a TV that fits the space appropriately and frame it elegantly. By selecting a TV that is proportionate to the area above the mantel, you can ensure a balanced and visually pleasing arrangement. Additionally, framing the TV elegantly can enhance its appearance and integrate it seamlessly into the room’s decor. This approach helps the TV blend harmoniously with the surroundings, creating a polished and sophisticated focal point above the mantel.
Some TV frame options that would fit elegantly above a mantel include:
- The Frame TV: The Frame TV by Samsung offers a unique solution as it displays art when not in use, blending seamlessly into the decor. It comes with customizable frame options that can be tailored to match the style of the room, creating a sophisticated and polished look.
- Custom Frames: For those looking to add a personal touch, custom frames can be built to fit any TV, including regular models. These frames can be designed to complement the room’s aesthetic and enhance the overall appearance of the TV above the mantel
- Thin Frames: Opting for thin and sleek frames around the TV can provide a more polished and integrated look. Thin frames help the TV blend into the surroundings and create a clean, well-proportioned appearance above the mantle.