When it comes to setting up the perfect entertainment area, the question “what goes under a TV?” often arises. The space beneath a television can be a focal point of the room, elevating your aesthetic and improving organization. This article explores various stylish and functional options for what to place under your TV, ensuring your viewing experience is seamless and enjoyable.
Understanding the Importance of the Space Under the TV
The area under your television is more than just empty space; it plays a critical role in your room’s overall design and functionality. Here are several reasons why considering what goes under your TV is important:
Enhancing Aesthetics: A well-decorated space transforms your room, making it inviting. The right furniture or decor can tie together different elements, creating a cohesive look.
Improving Organization: This space can serve as a storage area for various items, from media equipment to decorative elements, keeping your living area tidy.
Maximizing Functionality: Whether you choose a TV stand, cabinet, or shelf, the right choice adds functionality to your space, ensuring you have everything you need within reach.
Popular Choices for What to Place Under Your TV
When deciding what to place under your TV, consider factors such as style, storage needs, and room layout. Below are some popular options that can help you achieve the desired look and functionality.
1. TV Stands
TV stands are perhaps the most common choice for what goes under a TV. They come in various styles, heights, and sizes, allowing you to customize your setup to match your room’s decor.
Types of TV Stands:
- Wooden TV Stands: Offer warmth and a classic appeal, available in many finishes.
- Metal TV Stands: These provide a modern, industrial look and are often lighter and more versatile.
Choosing the Right Size
Selecting the right size TV stand is crucial. Measure your TV’s width and ensure to choose a stand that is wider than your TV for stability. Additionally, consider the height of the stand; the middle of the screen should ideally be at eye level when you’re seated.
2. Media Consoles
Media consoles are larger and often come equipped with additional storage for devices like gaming consoles and DVD players, as well as a place to display decor.
Benefits of Media Consoles:
- Provide ample storage space for media components and accessories.
- Often include cable management features to keep cords organized.
Style Options for Media Consoles
Media consoles are available in various designs to meet your aesthetic needs:
- Sleek Modern Designs: Options with glass or metal finishes for contemporary settings.
- Vintage or Rustic Styles: Distressed wood for a charming, nostalgic look.
3. Floating Shelves
For a minimalist approach, floating shelves offer an excellent solution. They take up zero floor space and can hold your TV components or decorative items above the ground.
Advantages of Floating Shelves:
- Create a modern, uncluttered look.
- Easy to customize and rearrange as needed.
Installation Considerations
When choosing floating shelves, ensure they are properly anchored to wall studs to support weight effectively.
4. Built-in Cabinets
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, consider built-in cabinets. These can be custom-designed to fit your room perfectly, offering a seamless look.
Why Choose Built-in Cabinets?
- Tailored to your specific needs, meaning you can incorporate shelves, drawers, and compartments as per your requirement.
- Enhances the overall value of your home.
Planning Your Built-in Solutions
Work with a designer to plan and visualize what to include. Consider how you want to integrate technology, such as placing outlets within the cabinets for easy access to power.
Storage Considerations: What Else Can You Add Under Your TV?
Besides furniture, consider incorporating innovative storage solutions to maximize the area below your TV. Here are some items you might want to include:
1. Baskets and Boxes
Utilize decorative baskets or stylish storage boxes to keep remotes, games, and other small items organized and out of sight. This option blends functionality with aesthetic appeal.
2. Decorative Items
Consider enhancing the space under your TV with decorative items. This could include:
- Books: A small stack of beautiful coffee table books can add sophistication.
- Plants: Introduce greenery or floral arrangements for a touch of nature.
Designing with Style: Color and Texture
When selecting elements for what goes under your TV, consider the color and texture of your choices. Here’s how to approach the design aspect:
1. Matching Your Decor
Ensure the under-TV area complements the overall decor of your room. If your room features warm tones, choose finishes that resonate with those.
Contrasting Elements: Don’t be afraid to incorporate contrasting elements that draw attention to the TV area while also blending harmoniously with the rest of your decor.
2. Play with Textures
Combine different textures for a visually interesting space. For example, if you have a wooden TV stand, consider adding metal accents or fabric-through baskets to create depth.
Technological Aspects: Ensuring Connectivity and Convenience
As technology evolves, having the right options under your TV can enhance your setup. Consider these technological elements:
1. Cable Management
Keeping cables organized can drastically improve the look of the space under your TV. Use cable management solutions like clips, sleeves, or boxes to hide cords and create a clean appearance.
2. Smart Home Compatibility
If you have smart devices, think about how you will integrate them into your entertainment setup. Ensuring easy access to control devices or charging stations beneath the TV can enhance your experience.
Final Thoughts: Customize Your Choice
Ultimately, the choice of what goes under your TV should reflect your personal style and practical needs. Whether you opt for a traditional TV stand, a minimalist floating shelf, or a customized built-in solution, ensure it complements your room while providing functionality.
As you design your under-TV setup, remember to think about aesthetics, storage options, and how technology can streamline your entertainment experience. This balance will lead to a well-organized, visually pleasing setup that enhances your home while accommodating your lifestyle.
Use these tips as a guide, and allow your creativity to shine in crafting the perfect space under your TV. Transform this area into a showcase that supports your viewing habits while also reflecting your unique personal style.
What are some stylish storage options for under a TV?
When looking for stylish storage options for under a TV, consider using a media console or cabinet. These pieces not only provide ample storage space for electronic components, games, and DVDs but also enhance the room’s aesthetic. Choose a design that complements your overall decor, such as rustic wood or sleek modern finishes, to ensure it integrates well with your space.
Another great option is floating shelves, which can be setup either above or below the TV. These shelves offer a minimalist look while providing the benefit of display space for decorative items, books, or plants. Incorporating decorative baskets on these shelves can also help maintain a tidy appearance by hiding away smaller electronics or accessories.
How can I conceal cables and wires under a TV?
Concealing cables and wires is essential for maintaining a clean and organized look in your entertainment area. One effective solution is to use cable management systems that can be attached to the wall or back of your media console. These systems often include cable clips or raceways that keep wires neatly organized and out of sight.
Another option is to invest in a cord concealer box, which can store excess cables and power strips. These decorative boxes come in various styles and colors, allowing them to blend with your furniture while keeping cords hidden. By implementing these methods, you can achieve an uncluttered and visually appealing setup.
What types of furniture work best for small spaces under a TV?
In small spaces, it’s crucial to choose furniture that maximizes functionality without overwhelming the area. Compact TV stands or media consoles with built-in storage can be perfect for this purpose. Look for designs that have both open and closed storage to accommodate different items while maintaining a streamlined appearance.
Multifunctional furniture, such as ottomans with hidden storage or side tables with shelving, can also serve well in small spaces. These pieces provide additional storage for items like blankets, board games, or books, while also offering a surface for placing drinks or snacks, enhancing both practicality and style in your setting.
Can I use plants to enhance the space under my TV?
Absolutely! Incorporating plants into the space under your TV can add a touch of nature and freshness to your room. You might consider using small potted plants or hanging planters that can create visual interest without taking up much floor space. Ferns, snake plants, and succulents are low-maintenance options that thrive in indoor conditions.
In addition to aesthetics, plants improve air quality and create a relaxing atmosphere, making them a smart choice for any entertainment area. Using decorative planters can also help tie the plants into your overall decor theme, ensuring a cohesive look that enhances the entire area.
What design styles complement a TV setup best?
When it comes to design styles, several can effectively complement a TV setup. Minimalist designs, which focus on clean lines and a clutter-free aesthetic, work well for modern spaces, allowing the TV to remain a focal point without overwhelming the room. Consider using a simple media console and monochromatic decor to achieve this look.
Alternatively, industrial or rustic styles can provide a warm and inviting atmosphere. By incorporating raw materials, such as reclaimed wood or metal accents, you can contrast the sleekness of modern televisions while creating a more textured, cozy environment. Whichever style you choose, ensure it reflects your personal taste and enhances your living space.
How can I personalize the space under my TV?
Personalizing the space under your TV can be achieved through decorative elements that reflect your interests and personality. Start by selecting accessories such as picture frames, unique sculptures, or themed decor that resonates with your hobbies or family memories. Displaying travel souvenirs or artistic pieces can also add character and tell a story.
Additionally, consider rearranging your books or DVDs by color or topic to create an eye-catching display. Using decorative boxes or baskets to organize media supplies can also keep the area tidy while offering a stylish touch. Personalization helps create a shared family space and invites guests to engage with the decor, making it both functional and expressive.
What is the best way to light the area under my TV?
Lighting plays a pivotal role in enhancing the area under your TV, providing both functionality and ambiance. For effective lighting, consider adding LED strip lights behind the TV or along the edges of your media console. This not only creates a soft glow that reduces eye strain but also adds a contemporary touch to your entertainment setup.
In addition to ambient lighting, task lighting can be introduced through lamps or wall sconces. Choose fixtures that align with your design style and complement the overall theme of your room. A well-lit space makes the area more inviting and creates a cozy atmosphere for movie nights or family gatherings.