10 Living Room Ideas for TV Placement: Smart & Stylish TV Layout Inspirations from My Design Experience

Over the past decade as an interior designer, I’ve seen TV placement become a major style statement in living rooms. These days, trends are leaning toward integrated, minimalist designs — and honestly, small spaces can spark the biggest creativity. In this article, I’m sharing 10 living room ideas for TV setup, blending my real-life projects and expert insights to inspire your next makeover.

1. Minimalist Wall-Mount with Floating Shelf

My Take: I once designed a compact apartment where wall-mounting the TV with a slim floating shelf freed up precious floor space. The sleek look fit right into the client’s clean-lined aesthetic.

Pros: Saves space, makes the room look bigger, and keeps cables hidden — perfect for a small living room layout.

Cons: Mounting requires careful planning; improper installation can damage your wall.

Tip: For a similar sleek look, I love drawing from minimalist living room layout designs to balance aesthetics and function.

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2. Built-In TV Wall Unit

My Take: A custom built-in is a game changer — my favorite was a floor-to-ceiling unit in walnut veneer that disguised the TV when not in use.

Pros: Creates a focal wall, maximizes storage, and hides clutter.

Cons: Higher upfront cost; not ideal for renters.

Cost Factor: Custom built-ins start around $2,000 USD and can go much higher depending on materials.

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3. Corner TV Placement

My Take: In one small loft, I tucked the TV into a corner to free the main wall for art. It created a cozy nook while keeping sightlines open.

Pros: Saves space, works well with awkward layouts, and reduces glare.

Cons: Limited options for large TVs; might be harder to arrange seating.

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4. Gallery Wall with Integrated TV

My Take: Blending a TV into a gallery wall transforms it from a tech item into part of the décor. I did this in a Scandinavian-style home and guests barely noticed the screen when it was off.

Pros: Stylish, disguises the TV, and personalizes the space.

Cons: Requires balanced framing to avoid visual clutter.

Tip: Arrange art by color tone so the TV blends better.

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5. Sliding Panel to Hide TV

My Take: In a modern farmhouse project, we installed a barn-style sliding panel to conceal the TV — the reveal was always a conversation starter.

Pros: Keeps the TV out of sight, adds a design statement.

Cons: Requires wall space for the door to slide open.

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6. Above the Fireplace Setup

My Take: While some designers avoid this, I love the drama it creates. One client’s rustic stone fireplace was the perfect backdrop.

Pros: Maximizes vertical space, creates a strong focal point, especially in open-plan living.

Cons: Can be too high for comfortable viewing; heat can be a factor — check with your fireplace manufacturer.

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7. TV on a Swivel Bracket

My Take: In multifunctional rooms, I often use a swivel mount so you can watch from the sofa or dining area.

Pros: Flexible viewing angles; great for open spaces.

Cons: Exposed hardware may not suit all styles.

Reference: The American Society of Interior Designers suggests TV center placement at eye level for best ergonomics.

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8. Media Console with Storage

My Take: A beautiful console can ground your TV setup and hide devices. I recently designed one with cane doors for a boho client.

Pros: Adds texture, hides electronics, and can be moved.

Cons: Takes up floor space in small rooms.

Tip: Look for consoles with adjustable shelving to fit various media devices, such as those used in modular storage planning inspiration.

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9. Room-Dividing TV Unit

My Take: This works brilliantly in studios — I placed a two-sided shelf in one project, TV facing the living area, shelves toward the bed.

Pros: Defines zones without full walls, keeps space airy.

Cons: Needs careful cable planning; not ideal for big surround-sound setups.

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10. Frame TV with Decorative Molding

My Take: I wrapped one client’s TV with custom molding painted in the same tone as the walls. It almost looked like art.

Pros: Elegant, blends the TV into classic or traditional interiors.

Cons: Limited to wall-mounted TVs; less flexible for repositioning.

Tip: Coordinate molding profile with your home’s trim style — much like I did for a project inspired by ornate 3D interior visuals.

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Summary

A small living room doesn’t mean limited options — it means designing smarter. Your TV setup can be both functional and stylish, and integrating it thoughtfully can transform your space. I’ve seen even the tiniest apartments feel grand with the right layout. So, which of these living room ideas for TV placement would you try first?

FAQ

1. What is the best height for living room TV placement?

The ideal height is with the center of the screen at eye level from your main seating, as advised by ASID.

2. Can I mount my TV on any wall?

Not always — you need to check the wall’s structure. Use proper anchors for drywall, or mount to studs.

3. Is a built-in TV unit worth the investment?

If you plan to stay long-term, yes. It maximizes storage and gives a tailored look.

4. How do I hide TV cables?

Options include routing through walls, using cable covers, or custom cabinetry.

5. Do TVs look good over a fireplace?

They can, but be cautious of height and heat. Some opt for an art display instead.

6. How can I integrate a TV into a gallery wall?

Use similar color frames, balance sizes, and position the TV as part of the composition.

7. What’s the smallest living room size for a wall-mounted TV?

Even in a 10x10 ft room, a wall-mounted TV works if seating distance is proportional.

8. Are frame TVs a good investment?

For style-conscious homeowners, yes — they double as art when not in use and add visual cohesion.