When it comes to interior design, the area above your TV often becomes an overlooked canvas for creativity. This prime real estate in your living room, den, or media room provides the perfect opportunity to express personal style and enhance the overall aesthetic of the space. Instead of leaving this wall bare and uninspired, consider how you can turn it into a captivating focal point. Here’s a comprehensive guide that delves into various ideas for what to put on a wall above your TV, ensuring it stands out beautifully and complements your home décor.
Understanding the Space: Setting the Stage for the Wall Above Your TV
Before diving into specific decor ideas, it’s essential to understand the area surrounding your television. Take a moment to assess your room’s overall theme, style, and color palette. This will guide you in selecting decor that seamlessly fits into your home.
Consider Your TV Size and Placement
The size of your TV and its height on the wall significantly influence what you can place above it. If your TV is large and mounted high, you have more wall space to work with, but if it’s smaller or lower, you may want to avoid large, bulky decor pieces that could overcrowd the area.
Choosing the Right Style
Do you prefer a modern, minimalist, bohemian, or traditional style? Make sure that the decor you choose reflects your preferences and aligns with the rest of the room’s decor.
Seven Creative Ideas for Decorating the Wall Above Your TV
Now that you have a better understanding of the space, let’s explore various creative options to enhance the wall above your television.
1. Artwork as a Focal Point
Art is one of the most impactful ways to adorn a wall. Here’s how to incorporate it:
- Framed Paintings or Prints: Choose pieces that resonate with your style. Large-scale art can elevate the area, while smaller pieces arranged in a gallery style creates visual interest.
- Canvas Art: Consider vibrant canvas prints or abstract designs that can add color and texture without overwhelming your TV.
2. Shelving Units or Floating Shelves
Using shelves allows for both decor and functionality:
- Display Collectibles: Showcase your favorite collectibles, books, or family pictures on shelves above your TV. This not only adds character but also personalizes the space.
- Add LED Lighting: Consider installing lights under the shelves to create a warm ambiance, enhancing both the TV and the decorative elements.
3. Mirrors: Reflecting Style
Using mirrors can make your space feel larger while adding sophistication:
Mirror Options
- Large Mirror: A statement mirror above your TV can create a stunning visual effect, reflecting light and drawing attention.
- Gallery of Smaller Mirrors: An arrangement of various mirror shapes and sizes can introduce an artistic element and provide a unique contrast to the TV.
4. Themed Wallpaper or Wall Décor
Consider using wallpaper or decals behind your TV to create a distinct backdrop. This can be especially effective in adding flair without taking up any physical space.
Types of Wall Décor
- Patterned Wallpaper: Select a bold or subtle pattern that complements the room’s color scheme.
- Vinyl Wall Decals: Easy to apply and remove, these can depict quotes, nature scenes, or abstract designs that resonate with your theme.
5. Plants for a Fresh Touch
Bringing nature indoors is an excellent way to add a lively element to your decor:
Plant Options
- Hanging Plants: Consider trailing vines in decorative planters hung from the wall above the TV, adding a dynamic touch.
- Wall-Mounted Planters: These can feature succulents or small ferns, making a statement without blocking your television view.
6. Customized Built-Ins
If you’re looking for a more tailored approach, consider having custom built-ins installed above your TV. These can serve multiple purposes:
- Storage Solutions: Built-ins can house your entertainment system, books, or decorative items, keeping your space organized.
- Display Space: Add compartments for showcasing art, photos, or plants, creating a cohesive look with the rest of your decor.
7. Creative Framing Options
Create an artistic display around your TV by framing the television itself. This can be achieved with customized wood or metal framing, turning your TV into a piece of art when it’s not in use.
Enhancing Functionality: Using the Space Wisely
While aesthetics are crucial, considering how to enhance functionality can make the area above your TV even more useful.
Integrate Technology
Consider incorporating smart home devices or soundbars into the design. This not only maximizes the utility of the wall but also keeps cords hidden and the overall look clean.
Use Lighting to Your Advantage
The right lighting can really make the wall above your TV pop:
- Accent Lighting: Install adjustable sconces or LED strips that can accentuate art or decor, creating an inviting ambiance in the room.
- Smart Lighting: Using smart bulbs allows you to change the mood with colors and intensity, enhancing the viewing experience.
Tips for Successful Decor Arrangement
To ensure that your decor truly enhances the space, consider the following tips:
Balance is Key
When arranging decor, aim for balance. This involves ensuring that the elements above your TV do not overcrowd or overwhelm it.
Maintain Proportions
The size of the decor should be proportionate to the size of your TV. For instance, a massive painting above a small television may seem disproportionate and unappealing.
Experiment with Heights
Varying the heights of items can create visual interest. For example, hanging art at eye level, placing plants on a shelf, and keeping decor items at different heights makes for dynamic arrangements.
Conclusion: Personalize Your Space Above the TV
Decorating the wall above your TV should be a reflection of your personal style and lifestyle needs. By thoughtfully choosing artwork, plants, or practical shelving, you can transform this often-neglected area into a stunning focal point that enhances your living space. Whether you prefer a minimalist design or an eclectic display, the key is to balance aesthetics with functionality, ensuring your TV remains a central element of your room without overshadowing the overall decor.
With these tips and ideas, you are well on your way to elevating your living space to new heights. Remember, your home is a canvas, and it’s time to turn the wall above your TV into a breathtaking masterpiece that tells your unique story.
What are some popular options for wall decor above the TV?
Many homeowners opt for art prints, photographs, or a gallery wall as stylish options for the area above their TV. A large canvas print or a collection of smaller framed artworks can create a focal point that draws the eye and enhances the overall aesthetic of the room. The choice of colors and themes in the artwork can complement the existing decor, making the space feel cohesive and inviting.
Another popular option is to install shelving units or floating shelves. These allow for the display of decorative items like books, plants, and curated collections. Not only do they add character to your living space, but they also provide functional storage. Shelves can be arranged in unique configurations that give visual interest and provide the opportunity to switch out decor as seasons or trends change.
How can I incorporate lighting above my TV?
Incorporating lighting above your TV can elevate the ambiance of your living space significantly. Many people choose to use wall-mounted sconces or LED strip lights. These lighting options can highlight the decor and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Soft, dimmable lighting can also be a great way to enhance the viewing experience, reducing glare on the screen during movie nights.
Additionally, consider using spotlight fixtures to draw attention to specific art pieces or shelves above your TV. Adjustable lights can be angled to highlight your favorite decor, accentuating your design elements. By strategically placing lighting, you can create depth and visual interest, making the wall not only functional but also a stunning part of your home.
Should I consider a wall-mounted TV to make use of the space above?
Opting for a wall-mounted TV can be an excellent way to maximize space and create a modern look in your living area. By mounting the TV on the wall, you have the flexibility to utilize the space above it creatively. This opens up possibilities for various types of decor that would otherwise be challenging to place if the TV were on a traditional entertainment center.
Furthermore, mounting the TV reduces clutter on the floor and allows for a more streamlined appearance. You can design the wall space above with unique shelving, wall art, or even decorative panels to create a cohesive and stylish entertainment zone. This approach not only adds aesthetic appeal but also optimizes the layout of your living space.
What materials work best for wall decor above a TV?
When selecting materials for wall decor above a TV, it’s essential to consider durability and aesthetics. Lightweight materials like canvas, acrylic, or metal prints are popular as they can be easily hung and are often less likely to fall or cause damage. Additionally, incorporating natural elements like wood or even greenery can soften the overall look, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your living space.
It’s also crucial to choose materials that align with your existing decor styles, such as rustic wood for a farmhouse look or sleek metal for a modern aesthetic. Consider the color palette of the room and how different materials interact with available light. This will help create a cohesive look that enhances your theme while remaining practical and stylish for everyday use.
How do I choose the right size for decor above my TV?
Choosing the right size for decor above your TV is key to achieving a balanced look. One guideline to follow is the rule of thirds, which suggests that the total width of the decor should be roughly two-thirds the width of the TV. This proportion helps create visual harmony between the TV and the art or decor pieces surrounding it, avoiding a cluttered or overwhelming appearance.
Also, consider the height at which the decor is placed. Typically, art or decor should hang at eye level to create a pleasing viewing experience. If you have a higher TV, you can adjust the height of the decor slightly above eye level, ensuring that it remains functional and aesthetically pleasing. Taking measurements and using painter’s tape to visualize the layout can greatly assist in making the right choice.
Can I mix different styles of decor above my TV?
Absolutely! Mixing different styles of decor can create a personalized and eclectic look that reflects your unique taste. For example, a combination of vintage frames with modern artwork can add depth and interest to the space. The key is to maintain a cohesive color palette or theme to unify the varying styles, creating a harmonious blend rather than a chaotic assortment.
It’s also important to consider the overall theme of your room when mixing styles. For instance, if your living room has a contemporary design, you might want to incorporate modern decor while integrating a few vintage accents. This approach allows you to maintain consistency while still allowing your personality to shine through. Creative combinations can transform the area above your TV into a display that is both stylish and enjoyable.
What are some budget-friendly ideas for decor above a TV?
Creating a stylish look above your TV doesn’t have to break the bank. One budget-friendly approach is to curate a gallery wall using thrifted frames and DIY art. You can find inexpensive frames at thrift stores or even garage sales, and filling them with personal photos or printed artwork can be a heartfelt and cost-effective way to decorate. This personalized touch adds character to your space without significant expenditure.
DIY projects are another great way to save money. You can make your own wall shelves using reclaimed wood or even create handmade wall art using materials like canvas or textiles. These projects not only reduce costs but also offer a sense of accomplishment. Incorporating plants or greenery can also elevate the decor; many indoor plants can be found at affordable prices, contributing to a lively and refreshing atmosphere above the TV.