It’s the great national debate! One popular design trend has stirred passionate discussions and strong opinions. Across the internet, homeowners weigh in… mount a TV above the fireplace?
Traditionally, the space above the fireplace was reserved for family portraits, treasured artwork, or (if you’re like me), a large trendy mirror. As slick and lightweight flat screen TVs gained popularity, mounting above the mantel seemed like a natural fit, and with good reason. Fireplaces and TVs both enjoy reining as the living room center of attention.
On the plus side, a TV above the fireplace can create the ultimate entertainment center and free up valuable living room real estate. In an article from Better Homes & Gardens, Ann Wilson explains:
Hanging a flat screen above a mantel or on a brick fireplace’s face results in a dual-purpose entertainment center that becomes a room’s visual centerpiece. The TV-hearth partnership frees up valuable floor space, allows you to focus furniture arrangements on a single wall, and generates pleasing views for channel-surfers and fire-watchers alike.
Disagree? You’re not alone. The arguments against a TV above the fireplace include: a strained neck, concern for mixing heat and electronics, and, well… it’s just not everyone’s style preference. Geoffrey Morrison from CNET states his case:
Mounting a TV up and out of the way above a fireplace seems logical, convenient, and undeniably cool. However, there are serious issues with such placement…. mounting a TV above a fireplace isn’t the best idea for the you or for the TV. Placement is a big issue, and location and TV height can be significant factors when it comes to picture quality.
When it comes to home design, we all have our own preferences inspired by culture, tastes and personal style. Ultimately, your home should be a place where you feel relaxed, happy and comfortable, no matter what’s above your fireplace. If you’re thinking about a wall-mounted TV in your home, it’s a good idea to check with a professional to ensure proper installation and wiring.
What do you think of a TV above a fireplace, yay or NAY? (See what other people have to SAY)
