confirm there’s enoughpower supplyto handle extras like Blu-ray players and sound systems.

Also, consider where the windows are and how much glare you’ll get on the screen.

Spacing

Emily Henderson Design/ Photo by Sara Tramp

It’s always ideal to put the TV at eye level.

tv placement in a living room

The Spruce / Letícia Almeida

Usually, thebest height to mount the TVis about 4 feet off the ground.

Then multiply the diagonal width of the screen by three to determine the best viewing distance.

double-check there are holes in the back (or drill some yourself) forall the cordsto go through.

A built-in TV console near a power source

Mindy Gayer Design

Also, be sure the cabinet is easy to open and close if you have kids using it.

These can also work in dens or home offices.

The Mantel: Yea or Nay?

Tv mounted at an appropriate height over a console

Emily Henderson Design/ Photo by Sara Tramp

But if you want theTV above the mantel, there are ways to make it work better.

For example, you should mount it on the wall, rather than set it directly on the mantel.

Be sure to decorate around it to counteract the visual weight of the TV.

Flat screen tv tucked away in a cabinet with closing doors

Emily Henderson Design/ Photo by Tessa Neustadt

Call an electrician if you need a new outlet installed as well.

A corner mount might be the solution for placing a TV in a living room with no wall space.

Lastly, place the TVabove a fireplace but with precautions.

TV Console decor ideas

The Spruce / Jacob Fox

Two formulas make it very simple to decide how far your TV should be from your couch.

The first formula is to multiply the diagonal width of the screen by three for the distance.

The second formula is to double the screen size of your TV for the distance.

A built-in TV console that closes to conceal the TV entirely

Devon Grace Interiors

Tweak these distances if the TV feels too far away but these formulas are good starting places.

The couch does not have to face the TV if it’s used rarely for viewing.

A TV should be placed at eye level for a seated person on the couch.

Flat screen tv resting on white fireplace mantel surrounded by bookshelves

The Spruce / Ashley Poskin

Generally, the center of any size TV should be about 42 inches above the floor.

you might put your TV in front of a window if that’s the only place possible.

Hang good-quality blackout curtains to prevent glare and direct sunlight from damaging your TV.