Living Room & Dining Room
Where Should You Put Your TV In Your Living Room?

Photography by Lauren Miller (left)/Patrick Biller (right)
Living Room & Dining Room
Where Should You Put Your TV In Your Living Room?
A little strategy goes a long way in positioning your TV.
A TV is a must-have for most homeowners and renters, but there’s no denying that it isn’t the prettiest (or most subtle) piece of decor.
Before you pick your spot, there are a few things to consider. First, your electrical situation. Are there enough outlets or plugs in this spot, or can you run an extension cord to hook it up? Your efforts will be futile if your TV doesn’t work, after all.
Also, consider whether you want your TV to be integrated into your design or serve as a focal point. This will help determine whether you place it in an uber-visible location or try to hide it to the wayside.
Most importantly, place your TV somewhere you can comfortably see it. Tucked away in a corner may be nice, but if you have to crane your neck to catch a glimpse of your favourite drama, you’ll be cursing yourself for the impracticality.
Here are five places to consider putting your TV in your living room.
1. In an alcove or bookshelf

Photography by Mike Chajecki (left)/ Patrick Biller (right)
Integrate your TV into your design in a subtle way by nestling it into a built-in alcove or bookshelf. Placing it further back in the wall ensures it doesn’t take up too much attention in the room without cutting off your view.
Bookshelves filled with novels, decor, and other goodies can also help distract from the TV.
2. On a media unit

Photography by Lauren Miller
A media unit is a simple way to display your TV at eye level. Depending on your ideal height, place your TV on the unit or hang it slightly above.
3. Off-centre

Photography by Provoke Studios
If you’re looking to avoid making your TV the focal point of your living room—or you’re placing it in a space that’s more conversational rather than movie-night-focused—consider shifting it off-centre. Angle it to face the sitting area without dropping it smack-dab in the middle of the room.
4. Above the mantel

Photography by Lauren Miller (left)/Janis Nicolay (right)
The polar opposite of hiding your TV, a fireplace mantel is a controversial placement. Some argue that it hinders your design or forces you to crane your neck to see the screen, but it’s really up to the specifics of your space.
If your sitting area is placed farther away from the mantel, you’re less likely to be straining to see the TV despite it being hung higher on the wall. Or, your mantel might be the most convenient place to hang or rest your TV.
5. Art double

Photography by Eymeric Widling
If your TV is really throwing off your design style, consider investing in a piece of artwork—no, really. You can purchase TVs that transform into art when turned off, with some even coming with ornate frames. Wow your guests when your subdued abstract work turns into the big game in the blink of an eye.
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