In the grand theater of home improvement, there exists no greater debate than the placement of a wall-mounted television. It’s a subject that can ignite passionate discourse, rivaling even the most heated debates on pineapple pizza.
And why not? After all, the television is the modern hearth, the digital campfire around which we gather to watch the latest binge-worthy series, heart-pounding sports events, and, of course, endless cat videos. So, where exactly should it go? Buckle up, dear reader, as we embark on this journey to find the perfect size and placement for your wall-mounted TV.
FINDING JUST THE RIGHT SIZE
Let’s start with size because, as everyone knows, size does matter—especially when it comes to televisions. Go too small, and you might as well be watching TV on a postage stamp. Go too big, and you’ll feel like you’re being sucked into a black hole every time you turn it on. You need the Goldilocks of TVs: not too big, not too small, but just right.
A good rule of thumb is to multiply the diagonal size of your screen by 1.5 to 2.5 to find the optimal viewing distance. This means if you have a 50-inch TV, you should sit between 6.25 and 10.5 feet away.
If you prefer a more hands-on approach, simply lean back in your chair and stretch out your legs. If your feet can kick the TV, it’s too close. If you need binoculars, it’s too far. And if you’re experiencing vertigo, consider a smaller size—or a visit to your doctor.
AVOIDING THE CRANED NECK
Now, onto the height of your mounted TV. Experts recommend the center of your TV be at eye level when you’re seated. This sounds easy enough until you realize that not everyone in your household is the same height. In fact, the average family has the height disparity of a professional basketball team. One method is to have everyone sit on the couch, and then measure eye level for an average height.
PLACEMENT STRATIGIES
When it comes to placement, some favor the over-the-fireplace spot, while others prefer a dedicated entertainment wall. Over the fireplace sounds grand until you consider the implications. Have you ever tried to relax while feeling like you’re in the front row of a 3D movie? That’s what watching an over-the-mantle TV can feel like. Plus, you risk becoming a giraffe with all that neck craning. A more pragmatic approach is to place your TV on a wall that doesn’t require you to rearrange your entire living room. Try the cardboard cutout trick: make a cardboard template of your TV size and move it around the room. This is an excellent chance to see how a TV looks hovering over your antique credenza or precariously perched above the dog’s bed.
THE TILT – BECAUSE LIFE ISN’T FLAT
Don’t forget the tilt! Flat screens are ironically named because they need a little tilt to be perfect. A slight downward tilt ensures everyone from the toddler to the tallest basketball player can enjoy a great view. Just don’t go overboard and create a home version of IMAX.
CABLES AND CORDS
After you’ve achieved television nirvana, don’t forget the final touches. Concealing cables is an art form in itself. You can hide them behind the wall, chase them along with a conduit, or, if you’re feeling extra lazy, cover them with a stylishly draped scarf and call it “techno-bohemian.”
Mounting your TV is an exercise in patience, precision, and a sense of humor. Remember, the perfect spot is a balance of comfort, aesthetics, and practicality. And if all else fails, you can always throw a blanket over it and pretend it’s modern art. Happy viewing!
