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Common TV Decor Mistakes and Simple Fixes

If you’ve ever looked at a living room and felt something was off, the TV area is often the culprit. Most people focus on the screen size but ignore how the TV fits into the room’s overall design. Below are the everyday errors that make a TV space look cheap or cramped, and quick ways to fix them without a full remodel.

Mistake #1: Bad TV Height and Placement

Putting the TV too high or too low forces you to crane your neck, which hurts and ruins the viewing experience. A good rule of thumb is to have the screen’s centre roughly at eye level when you’re seated – usually about 42‑48 inches from the floor for a standard sofa. Measure the height of your couch, sit down, and mark the spot on the wall. If the TV doesn’t line up, use a low‑profile TV stand or a wall‑mount bracket that lets you tilt the screen down.

Another placement slip is mounting the TV directly above a fireplace. The heat can damage electronics, and the angle often ends up too high. If you must use that spot, opt for a full‑motion mount that lets you pull the TV out and angle it forward. This keeps the screen at a comfortable height and protects it from heat.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Lighting and Cable Management

Glare from windows or lamps is a classic mistake that makes the picture hard to see. Position the TV away from direct sunlight and use curtains or blinds to control natural light. Add a dimmable floor lamp or wall sconces behind the TV for soft back‑lighting – this reduces eye strain and adds a modern touch.

Messy cables are the visual equivalent of a cluttered mind. Hide wires inside a cable raceway, a decorative cord cover, or run them behind the wall if you’re up for a bit of DIY. A clean look instantly upgrades the room’s aesthetic and makes it feel more organized.

Finally, avoid over‑decorating the TV wall. A large, bold piece of art or a gallery of small frames can compete with the screen and distract viewers. Keep the wall simple – a single statement piece or a subtle shelving unit works best. If you need extra storage, choose floating shelves that sit below the TV, not on top of it.

By fixing height, controlling light, and tidying cables, you can turn a sloppy TV area into a stylish focal point. These changes are inexpensive, easy to do, and make a huge difference in how the room feels. Next time you watch a show, notice how much more comfortable and enjoyable it is when the TV blends in instead of standing out for the wrong reasons.