TV and Tidings: 10 Clever Ways to Decorate a Mantel With TV (Without Making It Look Like a Tech Graveyard)

TV and Tidings: 10 Clever Ways to Decorate a Mantel With TV

Introduction: The Great Mantel vs. TV Debate

Let’s face it—placing a TV above your fireplace mantel is like putting a casserole on the dinner table in a fancy restaurant: functional, but maybe not the most elegant choice.

But for many modern families, it's just plain practical. So if you’ve got a flat-screen looming over your mantel like a stern parent at a teen party, don’t despair! This guide will help you strike the perfect balance between style and screen-time without sacrificing your design integrity—or your kids’ obsession with cartoons.

Why You Should Care About a Well-Styled Mantel With TV

• It defines the room’s focal point
• It creates a sense of cohesion between media and decor
• It keeps your space looking curated, not cluttered

Tip #1: Use a Floating TV Console or Wall-Mounted Cabinet

If you're starting from scratch, consider installing a wall-mounted console that houses your TV and media equipment. These can be custom-built or purchased as modular units. They give the illusion that the TV isn’t part of the mantel at all, while still being fully functional.

Product Spotlight: West Elm Mid-Century Media Console

Feature	Detail
Material	Solid walnut with a natural finish
Style	Mid-century modern with clean lines
Size	72” W x 24” D x 30” H
Features	Cable management cutouts, soft-close drawers, open shelving
Best For	Families with older kids who value both style and storage
Recommended Holiday	Perfect for cozy Christmas movie nights or New Year's Eve game marathons

Tip #2: Frame the TV Without Framing the Eyesore

If removing the TV isn’t an option, embrace it by giving it a frame. Floating shelves on either side or even a picture molding can make your TV feel intentional rather than intrusive.

• Add art or mirrors above and beside the TV
• Use matching sconces or lighting to highlight the area
• Choose frames that echo the trim around your fireplace

Tip #3: Hide It When You’re Not Watching

Enter the magic of smart concealment! Some people go so far as to install a motorized drop-down TV cabinet or use barn doors to hide the screen when it’s off.

Product Spotlight: Savant Smart Lift TV Cabinet

Feature	Detail
Functionality	Motorized lift conceals and reveals the TV at the touch of a button
Compatibility	Works with most 55”–75” TVs
Finish Options	Stained wood, white lacquer, or custom paint match
Best For	High-end spaces where tech needs to stay out of sight
Recommended Holiday	Great for Thanksgiving dinners where the football game should only appear on cue

Tip #4: Keep the Mantel Above Simple But Impactful

If your TV lives right above the mantel, avoid going overboard with decorations up there. Less is more! Stick to one or two statement pieces, like a large mirror, oversized artwork, or a seasonal garland.

• Stick to vertical height – avoid horizontal sprawl
• Choose items that reflect the shape of the TV (rectangular = classic symmetry)
• Don’t block soundbars or vents

Tip #5: Go Big with Symmetry

Create a symmetrical layout with tall candle holders, vases, or sculptures on each end of the mantel. If your TV is centered above, this gives your eye a balanced resting place.

• Tall tapered candles add drama
• Pretty baskets or urns keep things cozy
• Try using mirrored accents to bounce light and make the space feel bigger

Tip #6: Use Lighting to Distract Strategically

A few well-placed lights can draw attention away from the screen and toward the decor. Consider:

• LED strips under cabinets or shelves
• Wall sconces flanking the mantel
• Table lamps on nearby consoles

Tip #7: Add Texture Below the TV

Since the TV itself is sleek and smooth, contrast it with textures below—think woven baskets, stacked books wrapped in leather, or ceramic bowls with interesting patterns.

• Rugs or floor pillows below create a layered look
• Natural elements like driftwood or potted plants add warmth

Tip #8: Color Match Your Components

If your TV doesn't blend into the wall color, try to match other elements like speakers, remotes, or soundbars to the surrounding trim. Black devices? Paint your console black. Beige wall? Choose tan cords or covers.

Tip #9: Rotate Seasonal Decor

One major perk of having a mantel with a TV is that you can easily swap out decor without affecting the TV’s placement. Make it a tradition!

• Spring: Pastel vases + fresh flowers
• Summer: Tropical prints + beach-themed accessories
• Fall: Pumpkins + textured leaves
• Winter: Fairy lights + festive garlands

Tip #10: Think Outside the Frame

Who says the TV has to be directly above the mantel? Consider angling it slightly or building a niche around it. If you’re working with new construction or a remodel, get creative with angles and placements.

Family-Friendly Bonus Tips

• Use shatterproof glass or acrylic for any mirrors or frames near kids
• Anchor heavy decor to the wall
• Keep breakables higher up or behind the TV
• Opt for easy-to-clean materials like ceramic or metal

The Ultimate Mantel with TV Style Comparison Chart

Style	Description	Pros	Cons	Best For
Minimalist	Very clean lines, limited decor	Elegant, timeless	May feel cold or too formal	Modern families who love simplicity
Cozy Farmhouse	Wooden crates, lanterns, rustic touches	Warm and inviting	Can get cluttered easily	Families with young kids and pets
Scandinavian	Neutral tones, greenery, pops of texture	Soft and serene	May need more maintenance	Minimalist parents with active kids
Industrial	Metal, exposed bulbs, geometric shapes	Dramatic and bold	Not ideal for overly playful spaces	Young couples or urban families
Vintage Glam	Mirrors, gold accents, velvet textures	Classy and photogenic	Harder to keep kid-safe	Design-loving parents who host often

Conclusion: Style Meets Screen Time

Decorating a mantel with a TV might seem like an uphill battle, but with a little creativity and a lot of intention, it can become the heart of your living room—not just a reminder of Netflix binges past.

Whether you decide to cleverly conceal your screen or stylishly embrace it, remember: the goal is to make your home feel lived-in, loved, and uniquely yours. So grab those candles, plug in the LED strips, and let your mantel do the talking—even with a TV watching over it.