Goodbye, TV — Hello, Fireplace
Hide the television above the fireplace with clever camouflage, so the focus will be right where you want it
Many great rooms, living rooms, family rooms and bedrooms can actually become better when their design doesn't focus on the television. If you've decided to put your TV above the fireplace, consider keeping it hidden so your room revolves around your fireplace instead. Whether you use art, mirrors or pocket doors to camouflage your TV, these expert examples can help you say goodbye to the constant sight of your television set in your room.
Painted doors. These artistic Spanish colonial–style doors are in the same style as the rest of this home while hiding the television.
Design tip: Have a contractor make doors to fit and then have them expertly painted by a local artist. This is great way to support your local community.
Design tip: Have a contractor make doors to fit and then have them expertly painted by a local artist. This is great way to support your local community.
Pocket doors. Pocket doors help this TV blend seamlessly behind built-in wooden panels. The custom remote-controlled pocket doors fold back onto themselves and then slip into the built-in to keep the view of the TV clear when necessary.
Design tip: Pocket doors like this often require a bigger budget, due to the mechanics. Make sure you're prepared for the cost before deciding on this design.
Design tip: Pocket doors like this often require a bigger budget, due to the mechanics. Make sure you're prepared for the cost before deciding on this design.
Decorative panels. Take your interior to a whole new level with decorative panels that conceal the television. These panels slide horizontally on a track to expose the TV screen.
Design tip: Design your own panels or choose from ready-made options from a local cabinet manufacturer. Obscured or etched glass inserts would also look fabulous.
Design tip: Design your own panels or choose from ready-made options from a local cabinet manufacturer. Obscured or etched glass inserts would also look fabulous.
Paneled doors. These paneled doors come together seamlessly when the television is off, creating a distinguished library feel. Sliding horizontally outward on a track, the doors cover the bookcases when the screen is revealed.
Design tip: Connect paneled doors to an electronic remote control, and you'll never have to get up again.
Design tip: Connect paneled doors to an electronic remote control, and you'll never have to get up again.
Picture frames. For those who love displaying pictures of their loved ones, here's a novel concept: Mat and frame some of your favorite photos, hinge them together and create a wall of art as your fireplace focal point. Fold the panels back when you need to watch some television — easy!
Design tip: This option involves some careful measuring and installation, but it could even be a DIY project.
Design tip: This option involves some careful measuring and installation, but it could even be a DIY project.
Mirror TV. My favorite way of camouflaging a television is with mirror technology. As seen here, when the TV isn't in use, you see a mirror above the fireplace. But when you turn the TV on, the mirror dissipates and the screen becomes visible.
Design tip: Mirror kits and frames in all sizes and finishes are available for all makes and models of televisions. Consult a home media professional to order one for your TV.
More: Where to Put Your Flat-Screen TV
Design tip: Mirror kits and frames in all sizes and finishes are available for all makes and models of televisions. Consult a home media professional to order one for your TV.
More: Where to Put Your Flat-Screen TV
Design tip: There are hundreds of glass styles and textures available. Take the time to find one that suits your home best.