How to Decorate a Mantel With a TV, According to Designers

While we don’t often see televisions hanging in curated photos of living rooms, the reality is that most people enjoy watching TV while sitting on the sofa—and installing a television in the living room is by no means a faux pas.

In many living spaces, the area of the wall above the mantel is the most logistical place to hang a TV. So how do you then decorate your mantel accordingly? We’re sharing plenty of pro tips to assist you in doing so.

How to Decorate a Mantel With a TV

In my own New York City apartment, I opted to hang my Samsung Frame TV above my faux fireplace mantel and am pleased to share that, by no means, did this setup ruin my living room’s aesthetic thanks to some thoughtful decorating.

I made it a priority to invest in a TV that is designed to appear like a framed art piece when turned off, which ensured that my ornate mantel still appeared elegant (and didn’t become overtaken by a clunky TV). Glenna Stone, the founder of Glenna Stone Interior Design, is also partial to art-like TVs. because you get the best of both worlds.

When it came to styling, I kept the mantel largely free of accessories and chose to place a textured vase filled with floral branches on one side. When displaying plants or branches, make sure they do not block the screen—functionality is key here!

Below, designers share some additional tips on decorating a mantel with a TV.

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Be Mindful About TV Size

Stone notes that while there is no one specific television size one must stick to for the area above the mantel, it is essential that the TV does not exceed the width of the mantel.

“This can look disproportionate and a bit odd,” she says.

Clear Your Space

Take everything off of the mantel. Sallie Lord, a designer and founder of GreyHunt Interiorssays, recommends aiming to build it up and creating height. The first thing she suggests doing is addressing the walls on either side of the mantel.

“Hang wall sconces on either side of the TV or place a candle sconce, something long and narrow,” Lord says.

Keep It Simple

Most designers prefer to keep accent pieces on the mantel to a minimum. Stone believes the simpler, the better since it won’t clutter the area. She loves to use a set of candlesticks or a low shallow bowl.

Lord agrees. “It’s important to ensure that this area is not too busy, as it can distract from the TV,” she says. “Additionally, avoid blocking the TV to maintain a clear view.”

Note that a bowl or trinket box can also be a great place in which to store your remote.

Lord shares that you can add even more height to your mantel by displaying tall vases or sculptures, too, as long as their placement is not going to interfere with your ability to see all of the TV.

Tips for Decorating Your Mantel With a TV

• Aim to achieve balance. Ensure that each side of the mantel is equally decorated. Jessica Dorling, the founder of Dorling Design Studio, likes placing a potted plant that’s low enough so it doesn’t block the TV. This will help add natural texture and color. “On the other side of the mantel, I like to add smaller pieces of art and framed photos,” she says.
• Stack some books. Place frames or decorative items on top to create different heights and visual interest, Dorling says.
• Display some candles. “When lit, they add a wonderful glow without being overpowering or conflicting with what is playing on the TV,” Dorling says.
• Bring in some nature. Lord likes the idea of filling a low container with moss or succulents.
• Remember that less is more. As Dorling says, “Avoid over styling the mantel. I suggest removing one item after you’re done to help prevent overcrowding.”