In modern home design, a television is often considered a focal point for living spaces, media rooms, and even bedrooms. However, balancing the functionality of a TV with aesthetic design can be challenging. Television screens have become sleeker and larger, and their importance in daily life has increased, making it necessary to blend them seamlessly into the overall décor of the room. To achieve this balance, expert guidance is invaluable. Interior Designers London, with their flair for blending style and practicality, offer insights that can help you find the perfect placement for your television, enhancing both the room’s beauty and its functionality.

In this article, we will explore designer-approved tips for placing a TV in your interior, focusing on both aesthetic considerations and practical needs.

1. Consider the Room’s Functionality First

The first step in placing a television is to consider the room’s primary purpose. If the room is designed primarily as a family gathering space, where watching TV is central, the television should be placed in a prominent and comfortable position. On the other hand, in rooms where the focus is more on socializing, conversation, or other activities, you may want to downplay the television’s presence.

Interior Designers London recommend creating a layout that supports both TV viewing and other uses of the space. For example, if the TV is placed in a living room that doubles as a social hub, it should be easy to conceal when not in use, perhaps by integrating it into built-in cabinetry or positioning it near a focal point like a fireplace.

2. Create a Viewing Experience That’s Comfortable

Comfort is key when placing a TV. You need to consider the optimal viewing height, which depends on the size of your television and the distance between the screen and seating area. A common mistake is placing the TV too high or too low, leading to neck strain or an awkward viewing experience.

Interior Designers London suggest that the ideal height for a TV is at eye level when seated. This means the center of the TV should be around 42 to 48 inches from the floor, depending on your seating height. In living rooms with higher or lower seating arrangements, the height can be adjusted accordingly. The general rule is to avoid tilting your head up or down for prolonged periods while watching TV.

3. TV as Part of a Gallery Wall

One increasingly popular way to incorporate a television into the interior is to make it part of a gallery wall. Instead of having the TV stand out on its own, surround it with artwork, photographs, and framed pieces that complement the room’s style. By doing this, the TV becomes part of the décor rather than a standalone electronic device.

Interior Designers London often recommend framing the television with matching or complementary frames to the artwork to create a cohesive look. This approach works particularly well in living rooms or bedrooms where the TV might otherwise feel like an eyesore. The key is to choose frames and artwork that enhance the space without overwhelming the TV screen.

4. Use Built-In Storage Solutions

Another way to elegantly place a television in the room is by integrating it into built-in storage units. This is especially useful in smaller rooms where space is limited. A well-designed media wall or custom cabinetry can house not only the television but also your audio-visual equipment, books, and decorative items.

Interior Designers London often use bespoke built-in furniture to create a seamless look in the room. The TV can be hidden behind sliding panels or placed on a rotating mechanism that allows it to be concealed when not in use. This strategy ensures that your television doesn’t dominate the room’s aesthetic, especially in formal spaces where a sleek, polished look is desired.

5. Consider the Room’s Focal Points

Designers frequently talk about the concept of focal points, which are key elements in a room that draw the eye and anchor the space. The TV can either be the main focal point or work alongside other focal points, such as a fireplace, large windows, or significant pieces of artwork.

Interior Designers London advise aligning the TV with existing focal points when possible. For instance, placing the television above a fireplace has become a popular design choice. However, this requires careful consideration. The TV should not overpower the fireplace, nor should it be placed too high, as that would create an uncomfortable viewing experience. Some designers recommend placing the TV beside the fireplace rather than directly above it for a balanced look.

6. Choosing the Right Mount or Stand

The type of mount or stand you use for your television can make a significant difference in how it fits into the room. Wall-mounted TVs offer a clean, minimalistic look that saves space and reduces clutter, making them ideal for modern and contemporary interiors. However, the mount should be sturdy and capable of supporting the TV’s weight.

Interior Designers London emphasize the importance of selecting a wall mount that allows for tilting or swiveling, which can improve the viewing angle depending on the seating arrangement. If wall mounting isn’t an option, choosing a TV stand that complements the furniture and style of the room is essential. For example, a sleek, minimal stand might suit a modern space, while a more traditional, ornate stand could be better for a classic room.

7. Incorporate the TV into an Open-Plan Living Space

In open-plan living areas, where the kitchen, dining, and living spaces blend together, it can be tricky to place a television in a way that serves all areas effectively. The goal is to position the TV so it’s visible from different parts of the room without dominating the entire space.

Interior Designers London recommend pivoting screens, which can be adjusted depending on where you are in the room. A pivoting wall mount or swivel stand can be ideal in such cases, allowing the TV to be angled for viewing from the dining table, the sofa, or even the kitchen island. Open-plan spaces benefit from flexible TV arrangements that cater to the multifunctional nature of the room.

8. Conceal the TV with Innovative Technology

For those who want a completely seamless look, modern technology offers ways to conceal the TV when not in use. Some options include mirror TVs, where the screen doubles as a reflective surface, or artwork that slides over the TV when it’s turned off. These high-tech solutions can be especially effective in formal living rooms, bedrooms, or offices where aesthetics take precedence over technology.

Interior Designers London often recommend these innovative solutions to clients who want their technology to blend effortlessly into a space without being obtrusive. These high-end options can add a touch of luxury while keeping the room looking refined and uncluttered.

9. Match the TV with the Style of the Room

Finally, the television itself should align with the overall style of the room. Whether you prefer a sleek and minimalistic look, or a more traditional or eclectic design, the TV and its placement should complement the rest of the décor.

Interior Designers London often advise clients to consider the frame color and design of the TV. Some televisions now come with customizable bezels that allow you to change the frame color to match your interior. For example, a black or silver frame might suit a modern, industrial space, while a white or wooden frame might blend better with a cozy, rustic interior.

Incorporating a television into your interior design requires careful thought and planning. The TV can serve as a functional centerpiece or a subtle accessory that blends into the room’s décor. By following these tips from Interior Designers London, you can ensure that your television is placed in a way that enhances the room’s aesthetic appeal while also offering a comfortable and enjoyable viewing experience.

From considering the room’s functionality to choosing the right mount, integrating the TV into a gallery wall, or using built-in storage, there are numerous ways to place a TV stylishly. Whether you want the TV to be a focal point or blend into the background, thoughtful design choices can ensure your television fits seamlessly into your home’s overall aesthetic. With the guidance of professional designers, you can achieve the perfect balance between functionality and style, creating a space that reflects your personal taste while accommodating modern technology.