I have a complicated relationship with my television. While I enjoy unwinding in front of it, I dislike its impact on my room's aesthetic.
As I remodel my family room and sunroom, I'm on a quest for innovative and visually appealing methods to conceal and enhance my TV.
Many might suggest creating a media wall, but that's not for me. I consulted experts to find stylish alternatives to media walls that might resonate with others who feel similarly. Here's what I found.
Alternatives to Media Walls That Rescued Me from the Ick
Media units do have advantages, especially in spacious homes where entertainment rooms provide ample storage and organization for TVs and gadgets.
However, I prefer a cozy atmosphere like the living room shown above, designed to feel inviting rather than resembling a showroom.
My main concerns with media walls include their overly modern vibe, which clashes with my Victorian-style home, and the way they prominently display the TV, turning it into an imposing black box when not in use.
The goal is to create a design that integrates the TV seamlessly rather than treating it as an afterthought. As I reached the stage in my renovation where I could consider my TV setup, I asked professionals for advice on stylish concealment options.
Designer Kathy Kuo recommends that if you want to downplay the TV's presence, simply avoid putting it in the main space. 'In my own home, we have a cozy bonus room designated for watching TV,' she shares. 'It features a comfy oversized sofa, a media cabinet, and the TV—nothing more.'
'This setup creates a snug environment for movie nights while my living room remains elegant and conducive to conversation.'
Another option is to consider a framed TV, similar to the one in the living room by Carley Summers, which elevates the screen's appearance, especially when placed on a chimney breast or above a mantel.
Samsung offers customizable snap-on frames in various colors, including White, Teak, Brown, Beige, or Brick Red, to enhance your TV's look.
Designer Marie Flanigan suggests a unique method that blends functionality with beauty. 'Using a specially designed two-way mirror can transform your TV into a reflective surface when not in use,' she explains. 'Surround it with thoughtful decor, like artwork or shelving, to divert attention away from the screen.'
One of the more sophisticated ways to enhance a TV's appearance is through custom cabinetry.
'Alternatively, choose a media cabinet with sliding panels or doors that can completely hide the TV when it's not in use,' Marie continues. 'These designs keep your living area stylish and versatile, allowing for easy access to technology when needed.'
Alice Gaskell from Alice Grace Interiors has crafted numerous media cabinets and hidden TVs in her spaces, including a faux chimney breast with bi-fold doors that reveal her television.
In an accompanying video, Alice demonstrates how she cleverly integrated a hidden TV behind a secret door in her shelving unit. This design incorporates a television bracket that allows the screen to be pulled out and adjusted for the ideal viewing angle.
I find this idea brilliant as it not only conceals the TV but also adds a design element with custom shelving. I also like the alternative placement of the bookcase around a doorway rather than a flat wall.
Cabinetry provides additional storage for books, decorative boxes, trinkets, and picture frames, keeping everything organized and stylish.
Open shelving can make it challenging to hide clutter, so decorative storage boxes are essential. The faux-leather tab adds a touch of luxury.
Elevate your book display with striking red levanto marble bookends that add a vibrant pop of color.
This antique-inspired shelf clock crafted in imperfect brass brings character to your shelves or mantel.
Finally, designer Benji Lewis, who developed the clever system shown above, expresses his dislike for visible TVs in living spaces. 'Modern TVs are so slim that they can easily blend into built-in cabinetry, tucking neatly into a chimney breast,' he advises. 'Ensure you can comfortably watch it from your seating area; clever brackets allow you to pivot the TV for optimal viewing even when it's concealed.'
One valuable tip I found was to paint the surrounding area—a wall, cabinet, or shelving unit—in a darker hue so that the TV blends in better. Benji advocates this approach too.
'If the TV must be visible, consider painting the wall it's on in black or using a contemporary dark walnut finish to minimize its visual impact.'
Your TV should harmonize with your room's design rather than clash with it. There are numerous ways to make your screen feel less intrusive and more integrated into your decor.
If you're also looking to move away from traditional media walls, these insights have given me plenty to ponder. For those, like me, who dislike media walls, the good news is there are plenty of stylish and creative alternatives.
I'm excited to sketch out some clever shelving designs with secret compartments—after all, who doesn't love a hidden door?
