Decorating a TV Room

Flat panel TVs are an expensive investment that provide high quality TV viewing. New televisions are sleek and modern, with a low profile and high tech look. In a modern or home theater style room, they fit in and become the rightful focal point of the room. In a more traditional room or country home style, they may not fit in as well. Because of their size and function a flat panel usually becomes the focal point of a room – whether that is the intention or not.

Hide the Flat Screen TV

There are some furniture pieces that house and hide flat screen TVs. A television armoire is one option. Cabinets that hang on the wall are another. Both are available in an antique styles and finishes that blend in well with more traditional or country settings. For an even more authentic look, antique cabinets can be retrofitted to hold a television set.

There are also ways to completely hide a flat screen TV while it’s not in use, although these options can be expensive. Companies like Media Décor offer some solutions, included motorized art pieces that slide over the television when it’s not in use, screens that show artistic images on a blank screen, and mirrored surfaces that cover the screen.

Other high end options are TVs that rotate or slide into a wall or cabinet, like the Reversica systems, and custom, built in cabinets.

Show Off The Television

For an open look, TVs can be housed on a pedestal or an open entertainment center or hung on a wall. One way to soften the look of a hanging flat panel TV is with a traditional picture frame. The frame goes around the television, giving it the look of a hung painting or piece of art. Frames for flat screen TVs are available at stores like Pottery Barn, or can be made from simple trim by an experienced carpenter.

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Whether framed or not, there are ways to make an out-in-the-open TV blend into the room so that it becomes part of the room rather than a focal point.

First, choose wall décor that is the same size and scale as the TV, such as large posters or prints, tapestries, free standing shelves or bookcases. When placed near the TV, they make the TV part of the wall, instead of having it stick out. The right sizes are important – a wall full of smaller items will be too busy and distracting.

Art and wall decor in black, white, silver and neutral colors work well with a flat panel. For example, black and white prints similar in scale to the TV will help to enhance and blend.

As with other décor, place wall décor at a height that flows with the placement of the TV. Too many items at different levels can create a roller coaster affect that is distracting and busy.

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Tips for Flat Screen Installation and Placement

Some people choose to hang TVs above a fireplace, so that the two focal points serve as one instead of competing. Experts advise checking the temperature of the wall while the fireplace is running to determine whether the heat can damage the electronics of the television. And while opinions vary, it’s a good idea to find out whether the TV is too high for comfortable viewing before deciding to place it above a fireplace. Tilted sets and reclined seating can make a high television more comfortable to view.

Whether the TV is hidden or not, make sure it’s located in a spot that offers comfortable and enjoyable viewing. It should not be located in an area across from windows or a white wall, either one of which could cause distracting glare. It should be placed at a height that offers comfortable viewing from existing seating, and in a space where seating can be placed far enough away to get a good view.

The right placement and decorative touches will create a TV room that is comfortable, visually pleasing and appealing to all family members.