The Missing Element in Living Room Photos

In countless interior design photos, one element is noticeably absent: the television. This isn’t because TVs are no longer ubiquitous. Instead, experts like Monika Nessbach, founder of Designbar, attribute it to the growing aversion to the “big black rectangle” on walls.

The Problem with TVs

Katharine Rhudy of Reed & Acanthus explains that TVs are considered “ugly black boxes” in the design world, detracting from the overall aesthetic of a room. Designers often crop or hide TVs in photographs to avoid this distraction.

Solutions for Blending TVs

If ditching your TV is out of the question, there are several strategies to make it blend seamlessly into your living space:

Incorporate into a Gallery Wall

Nessbach suggests wall-mounting your TV amidst a gallery wall, especially if black is present in your decor. Surround it with framed art pieces in black frames to create an intentional and cohesive look. Even if black isn’t your preference, many TVs now feature art-inspired screens when not in use. Elevate the look further by framing your TV with molding to blur the line between technology and art.

Set Against a Bold Backdrop

Embrace the boldness of your TV by pairing it with an equally striking backdrop, such as eye-catching wallpaper. Nessbach suggests lush botanical prints or geometric patterns that will divert attention from the TV and enhance the overall design.

Consider a Smaller TV

For easier concealment, Laura Chappetto Flynn of Element Design Network recommends opting for a smaller television. This allows for more seamless integration into gallery walls and provides a wider range of furniture options for concealing the TV. Surround it with visually appealing pieces to balance its presence.

Invest in Beautiful Tech

TV manufacturers are responding to the demand for aesthetically pleasing televisions. Mirrored TV screens, like those from Samsung’s Frame TV, blend seamlessly into your decor, disappearing into the background until it’s time for use. These TVs also offer framing options and an extensive gallery of imagery to complement any style.

Custom-Built Solutions

If you’re building or remodeling, custom-built solutions offer endless possibilities. Nessbach favors mounting a TV on a sliding door panel, allowing you to hide it when not in use and reveal it dramatically when desired.

Embrace the TV

Flynn cautions against overzealous attempts to conceal a TV, which can result in unsightly solutions. Instead, she suggests embracing the TV and finding ways to integrate it into the room’s design. Sometimes, the best approach is simply to have a TV without trying to hide it.

Additional Tips

• Prioritize functionality when disguising your TV. Ensure it’s easy to access and watch without compromising the aesthetics.
• Consider the size of your TV in relation to the room’s size and furniture. A giant TV in a small room can be overpowering.
• Experiment with different placement options to find the most flattering position for your TV. Above a fireplace, on a console table, or in a corner are all possibilities.
• Use accessories like plants, artwork, or decorative objects to further blend the TV into the decor.
• Don’t be afraid to seek professional advice from an interior designer for customized solutions.