Mounting a television on the wall can transform the aesthetics of your living space while maximizing floor space. However, it raises an important question: what goes under a mounted TV? This inquiry might seem straightforward, but the answer can vary significantly based on personal preferences, room design, and practical considerations. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various options for what to place underneath a mounted TV, how to choose the right solution for your space, and some considerations to keep in mind.
Understanding Your Space
Before delving into specific items to place under a mounted TV, it’s essential to assess your space. Each living space is unique, and understanding its dimensions, functionality, and overall design can inform your choices effectively.
Measure Your Wall Space
Before making any decisions, take precise measurements of the area where your TV is mounted. Consider the width, height, and depth of the wall space. This data will not only assist you in choosing the right furniture or decorative items but is crucial for maintaining proportion and balance in your interior design.
Consider Your Room’s Purpose
Different rooms serve different purposes. A TV in a living room may require different furniture than one mounted in a bedroom or office. Identify the primary function of the space:
- If it’s a living room, you may want more entertainment-focused solutions.
- If it’s a bedroom, keeping the area serene and relaxing might take precedence.
Choosing the appropriate style and functionality beneath your mounted TV is essential, as it will contribute to the overall atmosphere of the room.
Functional Options for Under a Mounted TV
There are several practical items to consider placing beneath your mounted TV. Here are some popular options:
TV Stands and Consoles
A TV stand or entertainment console is one of the most traditional and functional options for under a mounted TV. These pieces of furniture can enhance your space while providing essential storage.
Benefits of TV Stands
Using a TV stand offers several advantages:
- Storage: They often come with shelves or cabinets to store electronics, DVDs, and games.
- Organization: Helps keep the area tidy, preventing wires and cables from becoming a messy distraction.
Choosing the Right TV Stand
When selecting a TV stand, consider these factors:
- Size & Proportion: Ensure the stand is appropriately sized for your wall and TV dimensions.
- Style: Choose a style that complements your existing decor. Whether modern, rustic, or traditional, the right stand can tie your room together.
Floating Shelves
For a more minimalist approach, floating shelves can provide a great solution beneath a mounted TV. They can hold decorative items, books, or even small plants while preserving a clean look.
Advantages of Floating Shelves
- Space-Saving: They create an illusion of more space and can be used in areas where traditional furniture might overpower the room.
- Customization: You can install them at varying heights to add visual interest and adapt them to your needs.
Decorative Ideas for Under a Mounted TV
If practical storage solutions aren’t your priority, consider decorative options that enhance your room’s aesthetics.
Art and Decorative Accents
Placing artwork or decorative accents under your mounted TV can create a focal point in the room. Consider these ideas:
- Framed Art: Hang a substantial piece of art to draw attention away from the television.
- Sculptures or Vases: Use unique pieces to add character and vibrancy to the space.
Complementing Your TV
When using art or decorative accents, ensure they complement the style and color of your mounted TV. A cohesive look can create a sophisticated atmosphere.
Plants and Greenery
Adding plants under a mounted TV brings an organic feel to your space. Indoor plants can purify the air while also serving as a decorative element.
Best Plants for This Setup
- Snake Plant: Hardy and low-maintenance, suitable for various light conditions.
- Pothos: Provides trailing greenery and thrives in different environments.
Entertainment and Gaming Setups
For many, a mounted TV is the centerpiece of an entertainment space. If gaming or movie nights are important, consider specialized setups.
Gaming Consoles and Accessories
If you and your family enjoy gaming, placing a console and game storage beneath your mounted TV could be an ideal solution. Utilize:
- Game Storage Units: To keep games and controllers organized.
- Media Carts: These can offer mobility and easy access to equipment.
Creating a Dedicated Entertainment Zone
By placing gaming equipment under the mounted TV, you can create an entertainment zone. Make it cozy with throw blankets and cushions for a comfortable experience.
Wire Management Solutions
No matter what you choose to place under your mounted TV, managing the wires and cables is crucial for a clean look.
Using Cable Management Systems
Cable management solutions can help keep all wires organized, avoiding tangling and unsightly clutter. These could include:
- Cable Ties: Keep cords together and organized.
- Cable Covers: Conceal cords along walls or behind furniture for a seamless appearance.
Why Cable Management Matters
Managing cables not only enhances the visual appeal but also prevents damage to cords over time and creates a safer environment by reducing tripping hazards.
Final Thoughts: Making Your Choice
Choosing what goes under a mounted TV is not just about practicality but also about enhancing your space’s aesthetic appeal. Whether you opt for a functional console, decorative items, or a setup tailored for gaming and entertainment, consider the following:
- Proportion and Space: Ensure that whatever you choose fits harmoniously within your room dimensions.
- Personal Style: Your selection should reflect your personality and complement your home’s overall design.
- Functionality: Be sure to address the primary purpose of the item(s) you decide to place beneath your mounted TV.
In conclusion, finding the right balance between aesthetics and functionality is key. Your space can reflect both comfort and style while providing a great viewing experience. Whatever you decide to place under your mounted TV, remember that it should enhance your overall living experience and reflect your personal taste. Embrace the creativity of your home environment, ensuring it is practical, stylish, and above all, uniquely yours.
What items can be placed under a mounted TV?
When considering what to place under a mounted TV, the most popular options include entertainment centers, media consoles, and wall-mounted shelves. These pieces of furniture not only provide a designated space for your TV devices, such as DVD players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices, but they can also help to keep cables organized and out of sight. Additionally, many homeowners choose to use decorative items like plants, books, or small art pieces to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area.
Another factor to consider is the functionality of the space. If you frequently watch movies or play video games, you might want to prioritize storage for media collections or gaming accessories. Alternatively, if the space is part of a living room or a family room, you may want to include additional items such as coasters or maybe even a small bar cart for convenience. Ultimately, the choice depends on your needs, style preferences, and the overall layout of the room.
How do I hide cables and wires under a mounted TV?
Hiding cables and wires can significantly improve the appearance of your mounted TV setup. One popular method is to use cable management systems, which can include cable raceways, kits, or conduit systems that neatly conceal all the wires along or behind the wall. Many of these systems can be painted to match the wall color, making them virtually invisible. Some TV mounts also come with integrated cable management features that help organize and hide wires effectively.
Another option is to use cable ties or Velcro straps to bundle the cables together, reducing clutter. You can attach these collections of cables to the back of the TV mount or along the wall to keep them off the floor and out of sight. For those looking for a more professional finish, hiring an electrician to install in-wall cable management could be an excellent investment, allowing you to run cables through your walls for a completely clean look.
Can I mount a TV above a fireplace?
Mounting a TV above a fireplace is a common design choice but comes with certain considerations. Firstly, it’s important to check the height at which you will be mounting the TV. Ideally, your TV should be at eye level when seated, which can be challenging above a fireplace. If not positioned correctly, viewing can become uncomfortable, leading to neck strain and reduced viewing pleasure.
Additionally, take into account the heat produced by the fireplace. Prolonged exposure to heat can damage your TV over time, so it’s crucial to evaluate whether your fireplace generates sufficient heat to impact your TV’s performance. You may need to install a heat shield or ensure there is adequate ventilation. Consulting with a professional for a proper installation can ensure both safety and comfort in this setup.
What are the best mount types for a TV?
When selecting a mount for your TV, you typically have three primary options: fixed mounts, tilting mounts, and full-motion mounts. Fixed mounts hold the TV flat against the wall and are the simplest and most discreet choice, ideal for rooms where you watch TV straight on. Tilting mounts allow you to tilt the screen down, making them excellent for placing TVs higher on walls without compromising on viewing angles.
Full-motion mounts, often called articulating mounts, provide the most flexibility, allowing you to pull the TV away from the wall and adjust the angle in multiple directions. This is particularly beneficial in rooms with a wide seating arrangement, offering the ability to adjust the view based on where you’re sitting. Each mount type has its advantages, so consider your specific needs and how you plan to interact with your TV before making a decision.
Is it safe to mount a heavy TV on drywall?
Mounting a heavy TV on drywall requires careful consideration to ensure safety and stability. While drywall itself is not strong enough to support the weight of a heavy TV, most mounts need to be anchored into the wooden studs behind the drywall. It’s crucial to locate these studs, often spaced 16 or 24 inches apart, and secure the mount directly into them using appropriate screws to distribute the weight evenly and prevent the TV from falling.
In some cases, if you cannot locate studs or if the TV is particularly heavy, it might be advisable to use a mounting plate that spreads the weight across multiple studs or to install a dedicated wall mount that is designed for heavy loads. Additionally, always double-check the maximum weight limit specified by both the TV mount and the drywall itself to ensure safety and stability for your mounted setup.
What are the standard heights for mounting a TV?
The ideal height for mounting a TV often depends on the size of the TV and the viewing distance, but a good rule of thumb is to have the center of the screen at eye level when seated. For most people, this generally translates to about 42 to 48 inches from the floor to the center of the TV. However, factors such as furniture height, room layout, and personal preferences also play a role in determining the best mounting height.
Another consideration is if you plan to use the TV for various activities, such as gaming or watching movies. In these cases, a slight adjustment might be necessary to optimize the experience for all types of viewing. If you’re mounting the TV above a fireplace or on a high wall, you might need to tilt the TV down to improve visibility. Always measure and plan out the space carefully before making a final decision.
How do I secure furniture under the mounted TV?
Securing furniture underneath a mounted TV is essential to maintaining a safe and organized setup. First, ensure that the furniture, such as an entertainment center or media console, is adequately anchored, especially if it is tall. If you’re using a unit that has a significant height, consider wall-anchoring it using a simple bracket system to prevent tipping, particularly if you have children or pets at home.
Additionally, keeping the furniture stable can involve utilizing anti-tip kits available for purchase, which can be affixed to both the wall and the furniture piece. These kits often consist of straps and brackets that help prevent the unit from leaning or falling over. Regularly check the stability of the furniture, especially if it’s frequently moved or adjusted, to ensure ongoing safety in your mounted TV arrangement.