TV Over the Fireplace? How To Do It Without Ruining Your Setup

A cozy fireplace makes for a beautiful focal point in your living room, but how does it affect the TV location? Incorporating both elements into your layout can be a design challenge— because essentially, they are two large rectangles fighting for attention. Many people choose to mount the TV over the fireplace, but is that really the best choice? We spoke to interior designer and architect Matthew Coates to walk you through how to create a balanced space with a TV and a fireplace.

Pros and Cons of Putting a TV Over a Fireplace

The advantages of hanging the TV over the fireplace are:

• Saves wall space
• Consolidates both elements for a tidy look
• Works well with non-functioning fireplaces

“Putting a TV over the fireplace seems clever on paper, but in practice, it’s rarely the best setup,” says Coates. The drawbacks include:

• Places the TV too high
• Awkward viewing angle
• Potential heat damage to TV
• Tricky cord management
• Competing focal points

Reasons Why People Put TVs Over Fireplaces

LIUDMILA CHERNETSKA/GETTY IMAGES

Because the fireplace is already an attention grabber, some people reason that placing the TV over the fireplace just makes sense. It’s an easy way to enjoy a crackling fire while you watch your favorite Netflix series, but you might end up looking unbalanced. “Both the fireplace and TV are both built-in features, and if you stack them, they compete with each other to be the focal point in the room,” says Coates. “Instead of letting one or the other be the centerpiece, you end up with visual tension that can ruin the whole experience.”

Another reason you might land on placing the TV over the fireplace is that you’re short on wall space. If the other walls include windows or doorways, options for the TV are limited, and above the fireplace is the best choice. We’ll go over how to make it work up ahead.

Alternatives to Putting a TV Over the Fireplace

Instead of over the fireplace, consider placing the TV next to the fireplace. “Placing it next to the fireplace gives each piece its own room without taking away from either,” says Coates. If there isn’t a lot of available wall space, skip the wall mount and use a small media cabinet or even a corner cabinet and stand the TV on top.

“Another consideration is a built-in setup with the fireplace centrally located and the TV concealed behind a sliding door, a cabinet or shelving unit on one side,” says Coates. “It has a deliberate look and keeps all things visually grounded.” A built-in TV wall has a big impact that can incorporate both the TV and the fireplace into one intentional focal point.

Tips for Putting a TV Over a Fireplace

If putting the TV over your fireplace is the only option, follow these tips for the best possible outcome.

A Low Fireplace is Ideal

Hanging a TV over the fireplace works best with a fireplace that is low to the ground, so the TV isn’t placed too high. “The fireplace should be as low as possible to the floor,” says Coates. “A linear or modern fireplace installed closer to the floor offers more options to install the TV at a decent height. If possible, recess the TV into the wall or get a frame-style TV to help it blend in better.”

Prioritize Viewing Comfort

Again, with a TV, it’s all about the viewing height—which is why the fireplace can complicate things. “Ideally, the screen should be at center eye level from your seating position, typically at around 42 inches off the ground,” says Coates, “However, with a fireplace thrown into the equation, there usually tends to be some give and take.”

According to Coates, hang the TV about 10 to 12 inches above the mantel. Any lower will risk overcrowding and heat damage; any higher will most likely cause an uncomfortable viewing angle.

Skip the Mantel

“Bypass the clunky mantel,” says Coates. “That will force everything upwards, which exacerbates the height issue.” Not only will a decorative mantel cause the TV to be even higher, it can also clutter up the space. A simple display of only the fireplace and the TV will look more appealing and streamlined.

About the Expert

• Matthew Coates is a Seattle architect and president of Coates Design. Coates creates pleasing interior spaces and furniture layout designs that complement and seamlessly merge with the built environment. With more than 20 years of experience, he is recognized for his innovative and forward-thinking approach to high-performance architecture and sustainable design.