Mantel vs. TV- The Age Old Dilemma

December 15, 2014

It’s a common conundrum that occurs normally right around the holiday season. You find yourself browsing Pinterest late one night and come across “the perfect mantel decor.” The insatiable desire to have the most festive holiday wonderment extravaganza on your mantel is quickly overshadowed by the monstrosity sitting above it. You know the one I’m talking about. That huge eyesore that you allowed into the house to appease your hubby so you could take full range of the master closet. It’s there ladies and gents, and you know it’s not going anywhere.

So that got me thinking about this commonplace problem. I often get asked my opinion on a TV placed above the mantel. In fact, my team did a recent pole on our Ally Whalen Design Facebook page to see which side of the fence our followers were on in regards to this unfortunate enigma. Turns out many of you feel pretty strongly that a TV above the fireplace is a dire sin. My first inclination is to agree, however it truly does depend on your space and style of living.

In fact, a new client of mine recently requested me to start work on her mountain home in Boone, NC and here is a perfect example of a space issue making the decision for us.

Boone, NC AWD Before

I cannot wait to show you what we have in store for this project (stay tuned!). Now as you can see the living area opens up to this incredible space with nearly floor to ceiling windows and a panoramic view of this:

Can you just imagine what this looks like when all the Fall leaves are at their peak? Gorge. In this circumstance we have a space that is not convenient for any type of media console and therefore we will more than likely be placing the TV above a mantel. We will have to find a new home for the deer as I am sure he will probably not be making a starring appearance in the living area anymore. We’ve named him Bob.

Now if you are in a similar situation with no perfect spot to host your TV there are a few options out there that may give you back your mantel and still allow your husband to have his “beloved” in the living room.

After doing some scouting I loved these options:

Pottery Barn Holstead Console and Hutch

Restoration Hardware Media Console: French Panel

LizMarieblog.com

I even love the idea of making your own rustic DIY console table…especially if you are dealing with a long wall. It’s nice to be able to completely customize the size you need. Check out one of my faves at Liz Marie Blog to see how to do a DIY such as the one above.

If you are looking to keep you TV conveniently located above the mantel, but wanting something a bit more custom here are some great photos that are sure to inspire.

Leo Designs Chicago via Houzz

Digiacomo Homes and Renovations via Houzz

Muskoka Living Interiors

What’s your opinion- are you a mantel vs. TV person or do you believe everyone can live in perfect harmony sans a few holiday decorations and an impressive 50 incher?