Kitchen Television Ideas: 5 Inspiring Setups: Creative, practical TV solutions for small kitchens from a designer with 10+ years of kitchen makeovers

I once had a client insist their TV be installed above the stove because “that’s where my eyes go when I cook.” I nearly put the TV on the floor to prove a point, but that disaster-turned-lesson taught me to think smarter about sightlines and ventilation — and to always start with a sensible kitchen layout flow before any hardware goes up. I truly believe small spaces can spark big creativity, so here are five kitchen television ideas I actually use on real jobs.

1. Wall-Mounted Pivot TV for Flexible Viewing

Mount a slim TV on an articulating arm so you can angle it toward the breakfast nook or the stove. The upside is excellent sightlines for multiple spots; the minor annoyance is making sure cords and a bracket don’t dominate the wall — a recessed power outlet fixes most of that. Budget tip: aim for a mid-range arm and pro install to avoid wobbly viewing.

save pin

2. Hidden TV Panels and Lift Mechanisms

Cabinet fronts or a sliding backsplash panel can conceal a TV when you want a clean kitchen vibe. This feels luxe and keeps screens away from grease, but it costs more and needs planning for ventilation. I once renovated a narrow galley and the hidden lift made the tiny space feel calm — perfect if you prefer your appliances to hide in plain sight.

save pin

3. Over-Sink or Under-Cabinet Swivel Screen

Small kitchens benefit from under-cabinet mounts that tuck a TV beneath wall cupboards or swing down over the sink for recipe videos. It’s a compact and practical choice; watch for glare from pendant lights and choose a matte finish. To preview how this fits in the room before drilling, I often create a quick 3D render preview to check sightlines and reflections in advance.

save pin

4. Backsplash Media Nook

Carve out a shallow niche in the backsplash for a flush TV inset, paired with a slim soundbar beneath. It looks integrated and keeps counter space clear, though waterproofing and heat management must be handled carefully. If you’re on a strict budget, a smaller screen and a DIY trim kit can deliver the built-in look for less.

save pin

5. Smart Integration with Voice and Multiroom Audio

Pair the TV with a smart speaker and discreet in-ceiling or shelf speakers so kitchen audio blends with the rest of the home. It’s great for morning news and hands-free controls, but privacy and ecosystem lock-in are trade-offs to consider. For clients who want data-driven layout ideas, I also test a few AI design options to iterate quickly and see multiple TV placements without heavy mockups.

save pin

FAQ

Q1: What is the best height to mount a TV in the kitchen?

Mount so the center of the screen sits roughly at seated eye level for the primary viewing spot, usually 42–48 inches from the floor. If viewers stand while cooking, raise the screen a little; mockups can avoid surprises.

Q2: Is it safe to put a TV near the stove?

It can be, but keep the TV out of direct steam and grease. Use a protective cover or choose an area with good ventilation to extend the TV’s life.

Q3: How do I prevent glare on a kitchen TV?

Choose a matte-screen option when possible, position the TV away from direct window reflections, and test angles with a tablet before final install.

Q4: Can I hide cables for a wall-mounted kitchen TV?

Yes — install an in-wall power kit or route cables behind a cabinet run. A licensed electrician ensures this meets code and keeps the installation tidy.

Q5: Are waterproof TVs necessary for kitchens?

Not usually; most consumer TVs handle normal kitchen humidity if not in direct steam. For installations close to water sources, consider TVs with higher ingress protection or additional shielding.

Q6: How do I integrate sound without cluttering counters?

Use a slim soundbar mounted beneath the TV or in-ceiling speakers connected to a small amplifier. Wireless multiroom setups also keep amps out of sight.

Q7: Do design organizations have guidance on kitchen layouts including media?

Yes, industry groups like the National Kitchen & Bath Association provide layout guidance and best practices for appliance and accessory placement (see NKBA: https://nkba.org).

Q8: What’s the cheapest way to get a built-in TV look?

Use a smaller screen with a DIY trim kit or build a shallow niche in the backsplash to recess the TV slightly. It gives a custom feel without the full cost of bespoke cabinetry.

save pin