A big screen wall-mounted TV is a necessity if you’re a binge-watching Netflix user, but it can be a challenge when it comes to interior design. How do you incorporate that big black rectangle into the rest of your décor?
One solution is to hang a gallery wall around it. The rectangular shape of the TV allows it to seamlessly blend in with a wall of frames. Here are a few tips on how to do it.
1. Start with a Blank TV Wall
First, you’ll need the TV. The TV should be mounted at about eye level for a seated viewer, so the middle of the screen should be about 42 inches from the ground. Beneath the TV you can place a media cabinet, low dresser, or for a cleaner look, wall-mounted cabinets like these. Leave about 10 inches between the bottom of the TV and the top of your chosen furniture.
2. Hang the Larger Pieces First
Now it’s time to start hanging your frames. The easiest way to do it is to start with the larger pieces first. Hang them around the TV, leaving at least 3 inches between the frames. Space them out so there are large pieces distributed throughout the arrangement. It’s OK to leave large blank spaces; you’ll take care of those in the next step.
3. Fill in the Gaps with Smaller Pieces
Once you have the foundation of the arrangement done, you can fill in the gaps with smaller frames. It’s a good idea to stick to only one or two-frame colors for a consistent look. Again, continue to leave about 3 inches between each frame. This avoids it looking too crowded. Use a mix of landscape and portrait orientations for a more interesting display.
4. Finish it off with Accessories
Your gallery arrangement is done! Finish the look with accessories. Leave some blank space for a tall lamp, and then add smaller accessories like vases, plants, and figurines. Most media equipment should be hidden in your furniture cabinets, but a single gaming console or DVD player can be left out if needed. Hide any cords in the cabinets as well.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Change Things
Down the road, don’t be afraid to switch out the artwork in your frames. The great thing about a gallery wall is you can change it for a new style as often as you’d like. Use colorful artwork for a more eclectic look, or stick to a black and white motif for a more modern design. Or you can use family photographs in the place of artwork for a more personal approach.
Your TV doesn’t need to be hidden away to have a beautiful living room. Merge style and function by using the TV as part of your décor. Don’t be intimidated by hanging a gallery wall. It might take a little trial and error, but it’s nothing that a little wall spackle can’t fix!
