Thinking of mounting your TV? Avoid the classic mistakes that ruin living room comfort and style. Get expert tips on where not to put your TV.
Living Room TV Placement Made Simple
Putting a TV in the living room isn’t just about finding a spot – it’s about making the room feel right while you watch. The right placement improves picture quality, reduces eye strain, and keeps the space looking sleek. Below are the basics you need to know before you drill any holes.
Key Factors to Consider
Viewing height. The center of the screen should be about eye level when you’re seated. Most sofas sit 40‑45 cm from the floor, so aim for the TV’s middle at roughly 100‑110 cm. Mounting too high forces you to crane your neck; too low makes the picture feel distant.
Viewing distance. A good rule is 1.5‑2.5 times the screen’s diagonal. For a 55‑inch TV, sit between 2.1 m and 3.5 m away. Measure your couch’s distance and adjust the size of the TV accordingly – bigger isn’t always better if you’re cramped.
Lighting control. Glare kills picture contrast. Position the TV away from windows that let direct sunlight hit the screen. If you can’t avoid a window, use sheer curtains or a tint film. Ambient lighting behind the TV (bias lighting) reduces eye fatigue and adds a modern vibe.
Wiring and power. Keep cables hidden. In‑wall conduits look clean but need a professional install. If you prefer a stand, choose a console with built‑in cable management. Check that the power outlet is reachable without stretching cords.
Room focal point. The TV often becomes the visual centerpiece. Balance it with artwork, a bookshelf, or a decorative rug to avoid a cold, TV‑only wall.
Practical Layout Ideas
1. Wall‑mount centered on a blank wall. This creates a clean, gallery‑like look. Use a tilting mount if you need a slight angle for low seating.
2. Floating entertainment console. A low‑profile console hides the TV’s base and adds storage for media devices. Keep the console height under 55 cm so the TV stays at eye level.
3. Corner mounting. If wall space is limited, a corner mount can free up the main wall for décor. Make sure the angle doesn’t cause distortion; many corner mounts swivel 45° each way.
4. Pull‑out TV cabinet. Perfect for multi‑purpose rooms. The TV slides out when needed and stays concealed otherwise, keeping the living room tidy.
5. Balanced furniture arrangement. Position the main seating directly opposite the TV, but leave room for side chairs or a coffee table. Avoid placing the TV behind a large sofa back, which blocks sight lines.
Once you’ve set the TV, take a few minutes to walk around the room. Check sight lines from all common seats, make sure no glare peaks, and verify that cables are out of the way. Small tweaks now save big headaches later.
Remember, the best TV placement feels natural – you shouldn’t have to think about it while you’re watching your favorite show. Follow these steps, and your living room will look polished, feel comfortable, and deliver the perfect picture every time.