Where to place the television?
At what height should a television be mounted on the wall? When you’re in the viewing position, your eyes should be perpendicular to the center of the screen. If necessary, adjust the angle of the television to suit your personal comfort.
Television on the wall
In a small room, floor space becomes even more valuable. Installing your TV on a wall mount exploits the height, leaving you more floor space for your furniture.
Television over a fireplace
When a room has a fireplace, it often takes center stage — a seemingly natural place to put a TV. However, make sure that the TV fits in with the decor rather than hogging the limelight. For example, a very large model that lines up perfectly with the fireplace’s boundaries will look more discreet than a small TV surrounded by empty space.
Television in a corner
In a small room, a corner is sometimes the only space left! Choose a wall-mounted telescopic stand to adjust the angle of the TV while viewing. Discreetly put it back in place when it’s no longer in use.
Television in an audio-video cabinet
Wall-mounting lends itself well to smart TVs, which act as an all-in-one entertainment unit. However, if you need to connect an audio system, a video game console, a DVD player and a set-top box… that’s a lot of wires. Choose an audio-video cabinet that matches your decor to hide them.
In a small room, a low cabinet with clean lines like Wilton creates the illusion of higher ceilings and more space. For more storage (and to keep up with the rattan trend), opt for the Natya. It combines three sections with wire outlets and three open doors — perfect for plugging in your devices and storing remotes, accessories, and DVD cases.
How to make television more discreet?
First, choose a television with a sober design. Then, create a setting where the TV fits in effortlessly and without attracting all the attention. Plan B: Hide your TV!
Choose a slim TV
A shallow device with a narrow, minimalist frame will take up less space and be naturally more discreet. You can also choose a model with a wide border that mimics a painting and scroll your photos through it. Another option: make your own frame using barn wood or decorative moldings, depending on your decor.
Make the most of dark colors
Choose a dark color to paint the wall where your TV is located. A navy blue, warm gray or charcoal black surface will soften the visual contrast, allowing the unit to blend in unobtrusively with its surroundings.
In the same way, you could combine your television with an equally dark audio-video cabinet like Easton‘s black oak veneer with a matte finish. This colorful reminder makes the unit look like it’s part of a whole.
Install shelves or bookcases around the television
Take the focus off your TV by integrating the unit into a larger arrangement. Think of your AV unit as a starting point, then add shelves, cabinets, and storage systems around it. For example, accentuate the Edris unit’s matte white veneer with a minimalist glossy Westlyn bookcase or two.
Garnish it with well-chosen books and objects, using colors and textures to make your TV just one of many.
Hide the television behind a panel
A simple and effective solution is to hide the unit behind a decorative element when it’s turned off. In a rustic, farmhouse-style living room, use a barn door with a track. A decorative panel that mimics wainscoting or woodwork works well with the Georgian look. For a minimalist approach, install plain surfaces, which can themselves be embellished with artwork or photo frames.
How to arrange your living room furniture
Allow enough space between your television and the viewing seats. This clearance should be between two and five times the width of the screen.
Big TV, small living room?
If the available space is particularly cramped, opt for a wall-mounted installation for your TV, or choose a sleek audio-video TV stand like Noah. Choose smaller, more versatile furniture that will be as comfortable during your movie marathons as it will be when you’re having a drink with friends.
To make the room feel larger, paint the walls light colors and install a generous amount of recessed lighting. The addition of decorative mirrors will create an illusion of depth.
How do you use your living room?
If your living room is used exclusively as a home theater, position your furniture for optimal viewing angles. If the room serves other purposes, opt for a flexible modular set. This will allow you to reconfigure the seating as you watch your favorite show or celebrate a family event.
With thoughtful choices and these clever tricks, even a small living room can accommodate a large TV. You’ll enjoy a cozy, intimate, and personal environment – whether the unit is on or off!
