How to Decorate a Fireplace with a TV, According to Designers’ Advice

While we don’t often see hanging TVs in carefully curated living room photos, the reality is that most people enjoy watching TV while sitting on the sofa—and there’s nothing wrong with having a TV in the living room.

In many living spaces, the wall area above the fireplace is the most logistical place to hang a TV. So how do you decorate your fireplace? We’ve got some expert tips to help you do just that.

How to Decorate a Fireplace with a TV

In my New York City apartment, I chose to hang my Samsung Frame TV above a faux fireplace and am happy to share that this arrangement doesn’t detract from the aesthetic of the living room thanks to the thoughtful decoration.

I prefer to invest in a TV that is designed to look like a framed piece of art when turned off, which ensures that my ornate fireplace still looks elegant (and not overshadowed by a bulky TV). Glenna Stone, founder of Glenna Stone Interior Design, also favors TVs that look like art, as you get the best of both worlds.

When it comes to styling, I kept the mantel mostly free of accessories and opted to place a patterned vase filled with floral stems on one side. When displaying plants or branches, make sure they don’t obscure the display—function is key here!

Below, designers share some more tips for decorating a fireplace with a TV.

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Pay attention to TV size

Stone notes that while there is no specific TV size one must adhere to for the area above the fireplace, To be It is important that the TV does not exceed the width of the fireplace.

“This seems disproportionate and a little weird,” she said.

Clean up your space

Take things off the mantel. Sallie Lord, designer and founder of GreyHunt Interiors, recommends aiming to build and create height. The first thing she suggests is tackling the walls on either side of the fireplace.

“Hang wall sconces on either side of the TV or put a candlestick, something long and narrow,” says Lord.

Keep it simple

Most designers like to keep the decorative details on the fireplace to a minimum. Stone believes that simpler is better because it won’t clutter the area. She likes to use a set of candlesticks or a low, shallow bowl.

Lord agrees. “It’s important to make sure the area isn’t too busy, as this can distract from the TV,” she says. “Also, avoid blocking the TV to maintain a clear view.”

Note that a bowl or jewelry box can also be a great place to store remote controls.

Lord shares that you can add height to your fireplace by displaying tall vases or sculptures, as long as their placement doesn’t interfere with your ability to watch TV.

Tips for decorating a fireplace with a TV

• The goal is to achieve balance. Make sure each side of the fireplace is decorated equally. Jessica Dorling, founder of Dorling Design Studio, likes to place a potted plant low enough so it doesn’t obscure the TV. This will help add texture and natural color. “On the other side of the fireplace, I like to add smaller pieces of art and framed photos,” she says.
• Stack some books. Place frames or decorations on top to create different heights and visual interest, says Dorling.
• Display some candles. “When lit, they create a beautiful glow without overpowering or clashing with the content playing on the TV,” says Dorling.
• Bring in some nature. God loves the idea of ​​filling a low container with moss or succulents.
• Remember that less is more. As Dorling says, “Avoid over-styling the fireplace. I recommend removing one piece once you’re done to avoid making it feel cramped.”