TV decorating ideas can transform any living space, and I used to think my TV was the ultimate design buzzkill in my living room. That big black rectangle seemed to dominate everything, making my carefully curated space feel more like an electronics showroom than a cozy home. But after years of experimenting with different TV decorating ideas, I’ve discovered that your television doesn’t have to be a design obstacle.
The key is treating your TV as part of the room’s overall aesthetic rather than fighting against it. Modern flat-screen televisions have actually become much more design-friendly than their bulky predecessors. With the right TV decorating ideas and strategies, you can create a media area that feels intentional and stylish.
Whether you’re working with a wall-mounted TV or a console setup, there are countless TV decorating ideas to integrate your screen seamlessly into your decor. From gallery walls that make your TV feel like art to clever storage solutions that hide clutter, these approaches transform your entertainment area into a focal point you’ll actually love.
In this guide, I’m sharing 13 creative TV decorating ideas that have completely changed how I think about TV placement and styling. These aren’t just theoretical concepts either. Each suggestion comes from real-world experience in my own home and countless hours spent perfecting the balance between functionality and beauty. You’ll discover practical TV decorating ideas for every budget and style preference, plus learn how to avoid the most common decorating mistakes that make TV areas feel disconnected from the rest of your space.
1. Create a Statement Accent Wall Behind Your TV
I’ve found that painting or wallpapering the wall behind your TV instantly elevates the entire space. A deep navy, forest green, or even a bold geometric wallpaper creates visual depth and makes your television feel intentional rather than randomly placed. The contrast helps your TV blend into the design instead of standing out like a sore thumb.
Choose colors that complement your existing palette but add enough contrast to define the space. Textured wallpapers work beautifully here, especially grasscloth or subtle geometric patterns. For renters, removable wallpaper offers the same impact without permanent commitment. I always recommend testing paint colors in different lighting conditions since the TV’s glow can affect how colors appear in the evening.
2. Build Floating Shelves for Layered Display
Strategic floating shelves around your TV create opportunities for personal styling while maintaining clean lines. I position shelves asymmetrically for visual interest, mixing heights and lengths to avoid a rigid, museum-like feel. These shelves become home to books, small plants, picture frames, and decorative objects that reflect your personality.
The key is varying heights and textures while keeping a cohesive color scheme. I typically stick to three main colors plus neutrals to prevent visual chaos. Leave some breathing room between objects rather than cramming every inch. Plants add life and soften the hard edges of electronics, while books provide texture and can hide small items you want accessible but not visible.
3. Design a Built-In Entertainment Center
Custom built-ins transform your TV area into sophisticated, intentional architecture. While this option requires more investment, the results completely change how your living space feels. Built-ins provide ample storage for media equipment, books, and decorative items while creating a polished, high-end appearance.
Work with your room’s existing proportions and consider including closed storage for items you want hidden. I love incorporating different textures within built-ins, mixing open shelving with closed cabinets and perhaps adding interior lighting. Paint the interior backs in contrasting colors for added depth. Don’t forget about cord management during the design phase to keep everything looking clean and organized.
4. Install a Decorative Room Divider or Screen
Room dividers offer flexibility for studio apartments or open-concept spaces where you want to partially separate your entertainment area. I’ve used everything from vintage folding screens to modern geometric dividers that create visual boundaries without blocking light or making spaces feel cramped.
Choose dividers that complement your existing furniture and allow some transparency to maintain flow. Woven rattan screens add texture and warmth, while metal geometric designs feel more contemporary. The divider can also serve as additional display space or provide a backdrop for plants. Position it to create a cozy conversation area around your seating while gently defining the TV zone.
5. Incorporate a Gallery Wall Layout
Creating a gallery wall that includes your TV requires treating the screen as one element in a larger composition. I start by measuring my TV and creating a paper template to experiment with layouts before committing to nail holes. The goal is making your television feel like part of an intentional art display rather than an interruption.
Mix frame sizes, artwork types, and perhaps include floating shelves for three-dimensional objects. Keep consistent spacing between pieces and maintain a unifying element like frame color or matting style. I typically use a 2-3 inch spacing between pieces. Consider the viewing angle when positioning artwork to ensure nothing interferes with your TV watching experience while creating visual harmony.
6. Add a Console Table with Styling Opportunities
The right console table beneath your TV provides storage while creating a foundation for decorative styling. I prefer pieces with both open and closed storage to balance display opportunities with practical needs. The scale should complement your TV size without overwhelming the space or appearing too small.
Style your console with varying heights and textures, using the rule of thirds for arrangement. Include a mix of functional and decorative items like stylish remotes storage, plants, books, and personal accessories. Layer items at different depths and heights to create visual interest. Keep frequently used items easily accessible while ensuring the overall look feels curated rather than cluttered.
7. Use Curtains or Drapes to Frame the Area
Floor-to-ceiling curtains behind or around your TV area add softness and can help define the space in open floor plans. This approach works especially well when your TV is positioned near windows or when you want to create a more intimate seating arrangement.
Choose fabrics that complement your existing textiles while adding texture and warmth to balance the hard edges of electronics. Linen, cotton, or textured weaves work beautifully and avoid competing with your screen. The curtains can remain stationary as a design element or be functional for light control. Consider mounting curtain rods wider than your TV to create the illusion of larger windows and more expansive space.
8. Create a Cozy Reading Nook Integration
I love combining TV viewing with a reading corner to maximize space functionality. Position a comfortable armchair at an angle where you can enjoy both activities, with a side table for books and beverages. This approach makes your entertainment area feel more like a complete living space rather than just a media zone.
Add a floor lamp for reading light and include a small bookshelf or basket for current reads. Soft textiles like throw pillows and blankets make the space inviting for both activities. The key is choosing furniture that works for multiple purposes while maintaining visual cohesion. Consider the sight lines to ensure your reading spot doesn’t interfere with TV viewing for others in the room.
9. Install Hidden Storage Solutions
Clever hidden storage keeps your TV area organized while maintaining clean visual lines. I use media consoles with hidden compartments, wall-mounted cabinets that appear decorative, and ottoman storage that doubles as seating. The goal is having everything you need within reach without visible clutter.
Consider cord management systems, hidden cable boxes, and storage for remotes, games, and seasonal items. Built-in storage works beautifully, but furniture pieces with hidden compartments offer flexibility for renters. I particularly love ottomans with lift-up tops that can store throw blankets while providing extra seating when guests visit. Keep frequently used items in the most accessible spots.
10. Incorporate Natural Elements and Plants
Adding greenery around your TV softens the technology’s hard edges while improving air quality and creating a more relaxing atmosphere. I choose plants based on your lighting conditions and maintenance preferences, mixing sizes and textures for visual interest.
Large floor plants like fiddle leaf figs or snake plants work beautifully beside TV consoles, while trailing plants on floating shelves add movement and life. Smaller plants can sit on media furniture without blocking views. Consider your room’s natural light and choose plants accordingly. Low-light options include pothos, snake plants, and ZZ plants. Group plants in odd numbers and vary heights for the most natural, appealing arrangement.
11. Design with Mirrors for Light and Space
Strategic mirror placement around your TV area reflects light and creates the illusion of more space. I position mirrors to reflect windows or lighting rather than the TV screen itself to avoid glare issues. Large mirrors can make small spaces feel dramatically larger and brighter.
Consider the mirror’s style and frame to ensure it complements your overall decor. Sunburst mirrors add visual interest, while simple rectangular mirrors feel more contemporary. Avoid placing mirrors directly opposite your TV to prevent distracting reflections during viewing. Instead, angle them to catch and reflect natural light from windows or to highlight other decorative elements in your space.
12. Establish a Color Palette and Stick to It
I’ve learned that maintaining a consistent color scheme around your TV area creates visual harmony and makes the space feel intentional. Choose 2-3 main colors plus neutrals, then repeat these colors throughout your accessories, artwork, and textiles.
This doesn’t mean everything needs to match perfectly, but having a unifying color thread helps diverse elements feel cohesive. I typically choose one neutral base, one bold accent color, and one supporting tone. For example, cream walls with navy accents and warm wood tones create a classic, sophisticated palette. Test your chosen colors in different lighting conditions since your TV’s glow can affect how colors appear in the evening.
13. Balance Technology with Warm Textures
The final key to successful TV area decorating is balancing hard technology surfaces with soft, warm textures. I incorporate throw pillows, blankets, rugs, and upholstered furniture to create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home rather than an electronics showroom.
Mix different textures like smooth wood, soft fabrics, and perhaps some woven elements to add visual and tactile interest. A large area rug helps define your seating area and adds warmth underfoot. Layer lighting with table lamps, floor lamps, or even string lights to create ambiance that complements your TV’s glow. The goal is creating a space where technology enhances comfort rather than dominating it.
Conclusion
Decorating around your TV doesn’t have to be a design challenge that leaves you frustrated. With these 13 creative approaches, you can transform your entertainment area into a space that feels both functional and beautiful. The key is treating your television as one element in a larger design story rather than letting it dominate your room.
Remember that the best TV area decorating solutions work with your lifestyle and space constraints. Start with one or two ideas that resonate with your style and budget, then build from there. Whether you choose to create a gallery wall, add floating shelves, or incorporate natural elements, the goal is making your space feel intentional and welcoming.
Your TV area should reflect your personality while serving your daily needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different arrangements until you find what works best for your home and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I budget for decorating around my TV? Decorating costs can range from $50 for simple additions like plants and accessories to $5,000+ for custom built-ins. Start with affordable changes like paint, floating shelves, and styling accessories before investing in major furniture or construction projects.
What’s the ideal height for mounting a TV on the wall? Mount your TV so the center of the screen is at eye level when you’re seated in your main viewing position. This typically means the center should be 42-48 inches from the floor, depending on your furniture height and personal preference.
How do I hide TV cables without major construction? Use cord covers that attach to walls, decorative cable management boxes, or furniture with built-in cord management. For wall-mounted TVs, consider hiring an electrician to install an outlet behind your TV location to minimize visible cables.
Can I decorate around a TV in a small space? Absolutely! Focus on vertical storage solutions like floating shelves, choose furniture pieces that serve multiple functions, and use mirrors to create the illusion of more space. Light colors and minimal clutter help small spaces feel larger and more organized.