How to Decorate Around a Wall Mounted TV: 10 Stunning Ideas (2026)

Last Updated on March 15, 2026

Why Decorating Around Your Wall Mounted TV Matters

A wall-mounted TV can be the focal point of your living room, but without proper styling, it often looks like a black rectangle floating on an otherwise beautiful wall. The good news? With some thoughtful decorating, you can integrate your TV seamlessly into your space while creating a visually stunning entertainment area. (Need broader inspiration? Start with our complete guide to decorating your living room.) Whether you’re dealing with a modern minimalist space, a cozy traditional room, or something in between, these ideas will help you create a balanced, stylish look that makes your TV feel intentional rather than intrusive.

Before You Start: Planning Your TV Wall Layout

Consider Your Viewing Distance

Before adding any decor, think about viewing comfort. The Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) recommends sitting at a distance where the screen fills about 30 degrees of your field of view. For a 55-inch TV, that’s roughly 7-11.5 feet away. This matters for decorating because you don’t want elements that distract from viewing or create glare. Plan your decor to enhance the space without interfering with your movie nights. Getting your recessed lighting placement right can also help reduce glare around the TV.

Map Out Your Power and Cable Situation

Nothing ruins a beautiful TV wall faster than visible cables. Before decorating, consider:

Installing an in-wall power kit to hide electrical cords
Using a cord cover that matches your wall color
Routing cables behind crown molding or baseboards
Adding a media console to hide cable boxes and streaming devices

10 Stunning Ways to Decorate Around a Wall Mounted TV

1. Create a Gallery Wall Around the TV

One of the most popular approaches is treating your TV as part of a gallery wall. The key is balance—you want the artwork to frame the TV without overwhelming it. How to do it right:

Choose frames in similar colors or styles for cohesion
Keep artwork relatively equal distances from the TV on all sides
Mix frame sizes, but keep larger pieces toward the bottom
Consider black frames on a dark wall so the TV blends in when off

Start by cutting paper templates of your artwork and taping them to the wall. Live with the arrangement for a day or two before committing.

2. Add Floating Shelves

Floating shelves around your TV create visual interest while providing practical storage. Position them asymmetrically for a modern look or symmetrically for a traditional feel.

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Styling tips:

Place one or two shelves to one side of the TV at varying heights empty space dream home
Add books, plants, candles, or decorative objects
Keep items at least 6-8 inches from the TV edge
Use similar color tones to create visual harmony

3. Install Built-In Cabinetry or Shelving

Built-ins transform your TV wall into an architectural feature. This approach works especially well in traditional or transitional homes. Custom built-ins can include:

Cabinets below for media equipment and storage
Open shelving above and beside the TV
A recessed niche for the TV to sit flush with shelves
Decorative trim and molding for added elegance

While custom built-ins require a larger investment, IKEA hack solutions using BESTA or BILLY bookcases can achieve a similar look at a fraction of the cost.

4. Create a Feature Wall with Wallpaper or Accent Paint

A bold accent wall behind your TV draws the eye and makes the screen feel like part of a cohesive design rather than an afterthought. Best wallpaper choices for TV walls:

Subtle textures (grasscloth, linen look) for understated elegance
Geometric patterns that don’t compete with on-screen action
Dark colors (navy, charcoal, forest green) that help the TV blend in
Murals that frame the TV as part of the scene

If paint is more your style, consider dark, matte colors that reduce glare and make the TV less prominent when turned off.

5. Add Architectural Elements

Wall treatments add texture and interest without cluttering the space around your TV. Popular options include:

Board and batten: Vertical boards create height and traditional charm
Shiplap: Horizontal planks for farmhouse or coastal vibes
Wood slat walls: Modern, warm, and visually striking
3D wall panels: Contemporary texture that catches light beautifully
Faux stone or brick: Adds character to modern spaces

6. Mount the TV Above a Media Console

A media console grounds your TV and provides essential storage. The console should be about 2/3 the width of your TV for proper proportions. Styling your console top:

Add a table lamp on one side for ambient lighting
Include a plant or vase with stems for organic texture
Stack books horizontally for visual weight
Keep it minimal—clutter makes the whole wall look busy

7. Frame Your TV with Sconces or Picture Lights

Lighting around your TV serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. Wall sconces on either side of the TV create symmetry and provide ambient lighting that reduces eye strain during viewing. Consider:

Swing-arm sconces for adjustable task lighting
Plug-in sconces if hardwiring isn’t possible
Picture lights above the TV for gallery-style drama
LED strip lights behind the TV (bias lighting) to reduce eye fatigue

8. Use a Frame TV

Samsung’s Frame TV displays artwork when not in use, automatically making it a design element. But even with a Frame TV, the surrounding wall matters. Decorating tips for Frame TVs:

Choose a frame color that complements your other artwork
Hang smaller prints or photos nearby to create a cohesive gallery
Add a shelf below with books and objects that echo your art style
Consider the art you’ll display and ensure surrounding decor doesn’t clash level outdoor aesthetic these

9. Create Symmetry with Matching Elements

Flanking your TV with matching elements creates a polished, intentional look. Symmetrical options:

Matching floor lamps on either side
Identical plants (fiddle leaf figs, snake plants) in matching pots
Matching artwork or mirrors
Built-in shelving units on each side

This approach works particularly well in formal living rooms and spaces where balance is key.

10. Go Minimalist

Sometimes the best decoration is restraint. A clean wall with just the TV can feel intentional and modern when done right. Making minimalism work:

Hide all cables completely (in-wall or cable management)
Use a sleek, wall-mounted TV stand or floating console
Choose a dark or neutral wall color
Add a single statement plant or sculpture for interest

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mounting the TV Too High

One of the most common errors is mounting the TV above a fireplace or too high on the wall. Your eyes should be level with the center of the screen or slightly below when seated. Mounting too high leads to neck strain and makes the TV feel disconnected from the rest of the room.

Overcrowding the Wall

More isn’t always better. Leave breathing room around your TV and don’t feel compelled to fill every inch of wall space. A cluttered TV wall is distracting and can make the room feel chaotic.

Ignoring Scale and Proportion

Tiny artwork next to a 75-inch TV looks awkward. Similarly, a massive console under a 43-inch TV throws off the visual balance. Keep proportions in mind—larger TVs need more substantial surrounding elements.

Forgetting About Glare

Reflective decor (mirrors, glossy prints) positioned to catch light sources can create annoying glare on your TV screen. Consider sight lines and lighting when placing reflective elements.

Budget-Friendly TV Wall Decorating Ideas

You don’t need a huge budget to style your TV wall beautifully:

DIY art: Frame fabric samples, wallpaper remnants, or your own photos
Thrift store finds: Vintage frames and objects add character
Plants: Propagate your existing plants for free greenery
Command strips: Hang lightweight decor without damaging walls
Paint samples: Test dark accent colors before committing to a full gallon

FAQ: Decorating Around a Wall Mounted TV

What is the best color wall for a TV to blend in?

Dark colors like charcoal, navy blue, or forest green help TVs blend in when turned off. Matte finishes reduce glare better than glossy paints. If you prefer light walls, consider a feature wall behind the TV in a darker shade.

How far should decor be from the TV?

Keep decor at least 4-6 inches from the TV edge to avoid a cluttered look. This also prevents accidental damage and allows for proper ventilation around the television.

Should I put anything above my wall mounted TV?

It depends on your ceiling height and TV placement. If there’s substantial space above, a floating shelf, piece of artwork, or decorative clock can fill the void. If the TV is already near the ceiling, skip above-TV decor to avoid making the wall feel top-heavy.

How do I hide the cords on a wall mounted TV?

Options include in-wall power kits (professional installation recommended), paintable cord covers that adhere to the wall, running cables through the wall into a lower outlet, or using a console with cable management to hide everything behind furniture.

Can I hang artwork next to my TV?

Absolutely! Artwork helps the TV feel like part of a cohesive gallery rather than a standalone black box. Choose pieces that complement your room’s color palette and keep them proportional to the TV size.

Final Thoughts

Decorating around a wall-mounted TV is all about balance. You want the space to feel intentional and styled without overwhelming the room or distracting from viewing. Start with proper cable management, consider your room’s overall style, and add elements gradually. Remember, there’s no single “right” way to style a TV wall. Whether you prefer a minimalist approach or a bold gallery wall, the best design is one that makes you happy and works for how you actually use the space. Take your time, experiment with layouts using paper templates, and don’t be afraid to adjust as you go.\n\n\n

If your TV sits on an angled or slanted wall, you may face extra challenges \xe2\x80\x94 read our guide on how to decorate an angled wall in the living room for tips that work alongside your TV display.