Harmonious Living: Your TV and a Fireplace Surround

Today almost all rooms actually used in a house have a TV. Lets face it, if there is no TV people do not use that room. Many times the fireplace surround is the focal point of a room. The sofa and chairs are gathered around it. So, where do you put the TV? Sometimes the only option is over the fireplace. The key is to plan ahead. However, many times the TV looks like an after thought. Here are some suggestions on how to make the two work together harmoniously.

Remember Scale, Scale, Scale.  Scale is obviously important.  Save the giant screen for a media room.  You do not need your beautiful fireplace surround lost as the TV overpowers the room.

This over the fireplace surround /TV installation is in perfect proportions. Notice that other dark objects in the room keep the TV from standing out.

You might want to consider a niche built into your wall or stone overmantel. This helps the TV become a part of your fireplace surround.

Of course you can completely hide the TV above the mantel. These mirrored doors close, completely hiding the TV when not in use.

Adding other interesting objects on the top of the mantel can also help integrate the TV into the fireplace surround and distract your eye, making the black box of the TV less prominent.

Remember the perfect integration of your TV and fireplace surround comes when you plan ahead.