Mounted Televisions in Living Room Decoration

Installing a mounted television in the living room can provide many benefits in both form and function. Thoughtfully incorporating a wall-mounted TV into the living room design can simplify layouts, save floor space, reduce glare, minimize clutter, and add a unique design focal point to the room.

However, effectively mounting a television on the living room wall requires careful consideration of several key factors, from TV size and ideal viewing distances to mount types, wire management, furniture arrangement, and decor.

Consider the Optimal TV Size and Viewing Distances

When deciding on a television for a living room wall mount, the size and viewing distances are important factors. Larger screen sizes often provide a more immersive viewing experience but may overpower a small living room.

• For a small living room under 12 feet deep, a 32-43 inch TV is recommended.
• In a medium-sized living room of 12-15 feet, a 55-65 inch TV tends to work well.
• For larger living rooms, 70-85 inch TVs help enhance viewing from farther seating.

Manufacturers provide guides on ideal viewing distances based on TV size. As a rule of thumb, the viewing distance should be 1 to 1.5 times the diagonal length of the screen. This helps prevent eye strain.

Strategically placing the mounted television is also key. Installing it above or beside the fireplace or entertainment center allows proximity for both the TV viewing and conversational areas.

Select the Appropriate Mount for Usage Needs

With living room TVs being used daily, the mount type plays a pivotal role in both function and safety:

• Fixed mounts attach a TV firmly to the wall, maintaining one straight viewing angle.
• Tilting mounts allow some vertical angle adjustment, helping reduce glare from windows or lights.
• Articulated mounts extend from the wall and pivot, providing the greatest range of motion to achieve ideal viewing angles.

Consider the room dynamics, expected TV usage, potential glare sources, and viewing locations when selecting a living room TV mount. Articulated mounts provide the most flexibility but fixed mounts offer a simpler, lower profile option.

Determine the Optimal Mounting Height

Finding the right wall mounting height helps enhance both aesthetics and viewing functionality. The standard height places the center of the screen at eye level of a seated viewer. However, several factors influence the ideal height:

• Seating type - Adjust for barstools vs. couches
• Reclining furniture - Account for various recline positions
• Room dynamics - Consider sunlight, ceiling fans, etc.
• Personal preference - Vary based on comfort and use

Generally, a good starting point places the screen center 42-60 inches off the floor. Tilting or articulating mounts provide some leeway to tweak angles as needed. Testing out mounting heights can help narrow in on the sweet spot.

Conceal Wires and Connect Components Cleanly

Taking steps to cleanly conceal and connect TV wires, cables and components prevents clutter:

• Fish wires through walls to hide connectivity
• Use media consoles or cabinets to conceal DVD players, cable boxes, etc.
• Utilize in-wall IR-repeater systems to hide remote controls
• Fasten and organize loose connector cables

Strategically placing floor-level components allows for hidden wall access above the TV mount. Built-in media cabinets or floating shelves can frame the TV while storing items out of sight.

Arrange Living Room Furniture to Complement TV

Arranging furnishings to enhance TV viewing and conversations typically positions the television as a central focal point. Consider the following layout tips:

• Face conversation areas directly toward or at an angle to the TV
• Incorporate nearby tech charging stations and lighting
• Allow open sight lines from seating areas for ideal viewing
• Separate side chairs slightly for flexible TV or fireplace views

Positioning the mounted television above or beside the fireplace unifies these two living room focal points conveniently. Nearby sofa tables, floor lamps and plants balance the layout nicely.

Incorporate Added Technology and Audio

To enhance the entertainment functionality of a mounted TV, consider the following add-ons:

• Streaming devices - Attached units like Roku or Amazon Fire TV Stick
• Gaming consoles - Wall-mounted PlayStation, Xbox, etc.
• Speakers/soundbars - Surround sound speaker systems
• Smart home tech - Voice control, automated lighting, etc.

Built-in media cabinets or shelving around the mounted television provide both concealed storage and display space for media players, speakers and other accessories.

Prioritize Safety and Security Precautions

Protecting household members and the TV itself involves key safety measures:

• Securely anchor the mount to studs in the wall
• Attach anti-tip restraints to prevent TV from tilting forward
• Use protective cables to avoid crashes if connections loosen
• Ensure all cords and plugs remain out of children's reach

Carefully testing the security of the mount and inspecting connections periodically maintains safety. Securing loose cords maintains childproofing as well. Wall straps offer an additional stability safeguard.

Determine Your Budget and Professional Installation Needs

Typical costs for living room mounted TV projects include:

• TV - Unit prices range widely from $300 to $5,000+
• Mount kit - $80 to $700 depending on type and weight capacity
• Professional installation - $150 to $500 for mount, wires, etc.

While DIY enthusiasts can self-install to save on labor fees, professional services ensure proper structural support and a secure mount. Complex hide-the-wires projects or large/heavy TVs also typically warrant hiring an expert.

Incorporate Design Elements Around the Mounted TV

Several aesthetic enhancements help a mounted television blend right into living room decor:

• Accent walls - Paint or wallpaper displaying colors/patterns as a backdrop
• Recessed shelving - Floating shelves or box frames integrating storage
• Surround lighting - Accent lighting fixtures adding drama
• Style coordination - Tying furnishings into the TV area's look and feel

Continuing fireplace materials like stacked ledgestone or shiplap wood onto the wall behind the mounted television unifies the areas. Nearby accent chairs or side tables also help anchor the space.

Maintain Proper Functioning and Appearances

Protecting the investment of a living room mounted television requires some periodic maintenance:

• Dust displays, frames and wall areas around the TV
• Check mount stability by gently pulling on TV edges
• Test cords, cables and anti-tip fittings for looseness
• Replace any wall anchor holes showing damage or wear

Setting calendar reminders to inspect mounts, test connections, wipe down screens, and vacuum surrounding shelves keeps things looking great and functioning safely.

Strategically mounting a television in the living room both streamlines space and provides convenient central entertainment. Carefully selecting the ideal television size and optimal viewing location sets the foundation for success.

Choosing the mount type that enables ideal viewing angles for the room then sets functional parameters. Wall-mounting the TV at the proper height for immersive watching remains imperative as well.

Finally, cleanly incorporating audiovisual components, arranging complementary furniture, safely securing the mount, and tying the television into the living room's decor pulls the look together visually. With mindful planning and setup, a mounted TV can transition from an eyesore into an integrated living room focal point.