35 Unique Ways to Decorate with a TV Above Your Fireplace

Tell all ya friends and neighbors!

“You don’t have a TV? What’s all your furniture pointed at?” – Joey Tribbiani

tall ceilings with large windows in living room with large TV mounted over the fireplace

I remember when we moved into our first house that we bought together when we got married and the ONLY place to put the TV was over the fireplace.

I. Was. Furious.

I wanted to enjoy them separately and be able to decorate accordingly. Duh.

Over time, though, it did grow on me. 

DIY black built in bookshelves around fireplace

Fast forward to quite lit’rlly today where we have our TV over our fireplace and it’s perfect. Especially once I finally convinced Jordan to let me do an Ikea hacked built in situation going on.

The cozy charm of a fireplace can be paired with your TV to create the ultimate living room that merges warmth with entertainment. Regardless of the layout of your room (yes, even with a corner fireplace!) you can make this a TV above it work for you.

Design and Decor Ideas

tv mounted above fireplace with shiplap behind it and built ins around fireplace

As a mom but also as someone who helps flip houses on occasion with the dude I married, it absolutely has to be both functional and pretty. 

Crafting a living area that is both stylish and practical can tricky, especially incorporating a TV above a fireplace. 

living room painted white and a tv hanging over the white minimal designed fireplace
coffered ceilings in living room with 2 couches, an ottoman in the middle and tv mounted above fireplace

When it comes to decor around your fireplace or on your mantel when there is a TV involved, remember that it’s all about creating a cohesive and visually appealing look that doesn’t feel cluttered or overwhelming.

Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect balance:

Keep it Simple 

white fireplace surround of a red brick fireplace and a tv mounted above it with a white vase of tulips on the mantel
white wall with wood accents and TV mounted over the fireplace in a living room
living room painted white with light colored furniture and TV mounted over fireplace

Sometimes less is more, especially when it comes to decorating around a TV above your fireplace. Opt for minimal decor pieces that complement the style of your space without competing for attention

Choose a Focal Point 

fireplace painted black and a tv mounted above it with a fiddle leaf fig to the left of the fireplace
tv mounted above fireplace with shiplap behind it and built ins around fireplace
tv mounted over the fireplace with a large piece of art to the right of the fireplace
tall ceilings with large windows in living room with large TV mounted over the fireplace

By placing your TV above the fireplace, you are essentially creating a focal point in the room. Embrace this further by choosing one or two statement pieces to draw attention to and keep everything else simple. You can always opt for a samsung Frame TV so that it can look like art when you’re not using it.

(Psst. And if a new TV isn’t in the budget, you can just DIY a Samsung Frame TV knockoff like we did in our playroom and it’s still a great option to be a statement piece as the focal point of the room)

Mix Textures 

rustic living room with white sectional and tv over firepalce

A mix of textures can add depth and visual interest to your decorating scheme. Consider incorporating different materials such as wood, metal, and fabric to create a visually dynamic look.

Think About Scale 

When choosing decor pieces for your fireplace mantel, this will of course be a personal preference, but consider the scale of the TV above it.

tv over the fireplace in a traditional living room with floral curtains and armchairs with blue cushions

Avoid using items that are too large or will obstruct the view of the TV, but also avoid using tiny items that will get lost in the space.

Incorporate Greenery 

living room painted white and tv mounted above fireplace with brown leather ottoman and sofa
tv mounted above fireplace in living room with wood coffee table
living room painted white and tv mounted above fireplace
white fireplace with shiplap behind the TV over the mantel

Adding some greenery to your fireplace mantel can bring life and freshness to the space. Try incorporating plants or flowers in varying heights and textures for a natural touch.

Layouts for Different Fireplace Types

As mentioned earlier, it is possible to decorate with a TV above your fireplace regardless of its location in the room. Here are some layout ideas for different types of fireplaces:

Corner Fireplace

corner fireplace with TV mounted over the mantel and a window to the left of the TV with rattan window shades
white living room with oriental rug and leather sectional and a TV mounted over the fireplace

For corner fireplaces, consider placing the TV above it on a nearby wall or in an adjacent built-in cabinet. This will create a cozy and functional entertainment nook while still allowing for ample space to decorate around the fireplace.

Linear Fireplace

For linear fireplaces, consider mounting the TV directly above it for a sleek and modern look. You can also opt for a more traditional mantel and place the TV above it, making sure to maintain proper spacing between the two.

Double-Sided Fireplace 

Double-sided fireplaces offer a unique opportunity for dual-purpose decor. Consider incorporating shelves or cabinets on both sides of the fireplace, one to hold the TV and one for decorative items.

Choosing the Right TV

Selecting a TV that complements your space is crucial. 

Consider the dimensions of your room, the viewing distance, and the overall style you wish to achieve. 

tv over fireplace that is blue in color with super tall ceilings in living room

Look for TVs with slim profiles and high-resolution displays, such as an OLED or QLED screen, for a sleek look and excellent viewing experience. If your room is on the larger side, opt for a 4K or even an 8K model for enhanced immersion, but always balance size with comfort. 

Factors to consider when choosing your TV:

tv mounted over the fireplace in living room
  • Size relative to the fireplace and the seating area
  • Display technology that fits your needs and (most importantly) budget
  • Look for models that offer anti-glare screens

Fireplace TV Mounts

living room painted white and tv mounted above fireplace
living room painted white and tv mounted above fireplace

A successful TV-over-fireplace installation hinges on the right mount. Various options exist, from fixed to motorized mounts, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks.

Different mounting options to explore:

Fixed Mounts 

tv above fireplace with builtins and rustic mantel
tv above a fireplace and gallery wall frames around it

Offer a secure and stationary display but lack the flexibility of adjustable mounts.

Tilt and Swivel Mounts 

Ideal for reducing glare and adjusting the viewing angle if you have high ceilings but may compromise stability, especially if the TV is on the heavier side.

Mantel-Mounts 

coffered ceilings in living room with 2 couches, an coffee table in the middle and tv mounted above fireplace

A solution that allows you to pull the TV down and forward to eye level when in use, offering both function and style.

Safety Considerations

Safety should be a top priority when installing a TV above a fireplace. Nobody wants  to see their expensive TV come crashing down due to improper installation. Yowza.

tv mounted above fireplace in living room with wood coffee table

Heat and smoke can damage electronics, and improper installation can be hazardous as well. Ensure your TV can withstand the fireplace’s heat—not all models are designed for this location—by consulting the manufacturer’s guidelines.

tv hanging over the fireplace with rustic mantel and a seagrass basket on the heart of the fireplace
living room with light furniture and a TV mounted above the fireplace with a fiddle leaf fig tree in the left corner

Additionally, maintain a safe viewing distance to protect your eyes and minimize neck strain.

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Use a sturdy and properly installed mount
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for weight limits
  • Ensure proper ventilation for both the fireplace and TV 
  • Keep all cords and cables neatly organized and away from anything considered a heat source 

Lighting and Viewing Comfort

The right lighting and seating arrangements can make all the difference in your TV watching experience too. 

tv mounted over fireplace in living room and windows on either side with woven shades and curtains on either side

After spending some months in the NICU with our newest lil’ fella, I fell in love with a recliner. And want one SO BADLY here but there is just no way with our layout without losing too many places to sit.

But we are now looking into potentially getting a reclining sofa instead! 

white brick fireplace with tv above it and plant to the left

As far as lights go, position lights strategically to reduce glare on your flat-screen TV without casting shadows. 

Tips for comfortable viewing and lighting:

  • Use dimmable lamps and overhead fixtures to adjust the intensity based on the time of day.
  • Place seating in an arc around the TV to provide a clear line of sight for all viewers.
  • Control the natural light with window coverings, especially during peak daylight hours
coffered ceilings in living room with 2 couches, an ottoman in the middle and tv mounted above fireplace
living room painted white and tv mounted above fireplace

The reality is TVs are very much a part of most American families and I’m not mad about it. If I’m not momming or reading, I’m usually binge watching my favorite shows I’ve seen a million times. Hello Friends and The Office.

Whether you opt for a traditional aesthetic or a contemporary twist,  incorporating a TV above your fireplace can elevate and enhance both the functionality and style of your space. 

TV mounted over a white fireplace with rattan shades in the window on the right side
living room with sheer curtains and a jute rug. There is a TV mounted over the fireplace mantel

With careful planning, proper installation, and a bit of creativity, you can create a cozy and inviting entertainment space that will be the perfect extra thing for your kids to fight over.

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