The space beside your television often gets overlooked when it comes to decorating your living room. But this area holds a unique opportunity to inject personality and style into your space. Whether your living room is minimalist and modern or cozy and traditional, there are countless ways to decorate the side of your TV to create a cohesive and visually appealing design. This article explores 21 design ideas that incorporate the latest trends in interior design from both the US and EU, helping you transform this often-underutilized area into a stunning focal point of your living room.
Gallery Wall of Family Photos
A gallery wall is a timeless classic, and it’s an excellent way to personalize the space beside your television. In both the US and EU, incorporating family photos or cherished memories is a prevalent trend. Consider using a mix of black and white and color photos to create visual interest. You can frame them in a cohesive style, like minimalist black frames for a modern look, or opt for vintage-inspired frames for a more traditional vibe.
For a modern twist, incorporate different sizes and orientations of the frames. You can create a symmetrical or asymmetrical design based on your preference and the size of the wall. Color palettes are flexible here. Neutral tones like beige, cream, or grey work well as a backdrop, allowing the photos to pop. For a bolder look, you can use colors that complement the photos or the overall room’s color scheme. In the US, earthy tones like terracotta and olive green are increasingly popular, while in the EU, soft blues and muted greens are favored.
Ensure that the gallery wall doesn’t overwhelm the space, keeping the scale proportionate to the wall size and the furniture around it. A well-executed gallery wall adds warmth and personal touches to the room, effectively transforming the side of the TV into a captivating storytelling element.
Earthy Tones and Natural Textures
The trend of incorporating natural elements into interior design continues to be popular in both the US and EU. For the side of your TV, consider a design with earthy tones and natural textures. Think warm beige, terracotta, or muted greens paired with materials like woven baskets, wood, or stone accents.
You can introduce these elements through a variety of decor pieces. A large woven basket can serve as a storage solution and a decorative element, while a wooden shelf can display plants or decorative objects. In the US, incorporating succulents and cacti in terracotta pots is a popular choice, while in the EU, lush greenery like ferns and monsteras in ceramic planters is preferred.
Using a large piece of artwork featuring earthy landscapes or botanical prints can enhance the natural feel. This design style creates a sense of tranquility and brings the outdoors in, fostering a relaxing and calming atmosphere in your living room. Opt for a light-colored wall as a backdrop to complement the warm tones of the decor. This design aesthetic is perfect for creating a sense of calm and grounding in your living room, making the space feel more inviting and connected to nature.
Minimalist Geometric Art
For those who prefer a clean and modern aesthetic, minimalist geometric art is an excellent choice. This style is highly popular in both the US and EU, particularly among younger generations. Geometric art features abstract patterns and shapes in a monochromatic or limited color palette.
When selecting artwork, consider the color scheme of your living room. If your living room uses neutral tones, you can introduce bolder geometric patterns in colors like deep blue, mustard yellow, or terracotta. However, if your living room already has a vibrant color scheme, opt for monochromatic geometric art in black, white, or shades of grey.
These prints can be framed in sleek, black, or white frames, which further emphasizes the minimalist aesthetic. You can even incorporate a set of three or five similarly styled prints to create a focal point.
This design approach enhances the sleekness of your TV unit and adds a touch of sophistication to the space. It provides a clean canvas for your decor, allowing the art to stand out while seamlessly integrating with the overall design of your living room.
Bold Statement Wallpaper
If you’re looking for a way to make a big impact, a statement wallpaper is the way to go. This trend is experiencing a resurgence, with both the US and EU embracing the power of wallpaper to transform a room. Bold patterns like geometric designs, tropical leaves, or abstract art are popular choices.
Choose a wallpaper that complements your existing decor and adds a pop of color or pattern to the space. If your living room has neutral furniture and a muted color palette, you can introduce a bolder wallpaper with vibrant colors and patterns. However, if your living room already has a strong color palette, opt for a wallpaper with a pattern that complements existing colors or uses a similar color palette with different tones or shades.
When choosing colors, consider the lighting in your living room. A dark-colored wallpaper can make a small room feel smaller, so it’s best to use lighter colors or patterns that reflect light. In the US, bright patterns with a retro or vintage vibe are popular, while in the EU, more muted patterns with a Scandinavian or Art Deco feel are trending.
This design choice is a great way to create a focal point in your living room and instantly elevate the aesthetic of the space. Make sure the wallpaper complements the style of your TV unit and the overall design of the room for a harmonious and visually appealing look.
Metallic Accents and Mirrors
Metallic accents are a classic design element that never goes out of style. Both the US and EU continue to see a rise in the use of metallic finishes in interior design. Gold, silver, and copper are popular choices for introducing a touch of glamour and sophistication.
Consider incorporating a metallic console table next to your TV or placing metallic decorative objects on existing shelves. Mirrors are another excellent way to incorporate metallic accents. A large, ornate mirror can add visual interest and make the room feel larger.
For a more modern aesthetic, you can opt for a minimalist mirror with a thin metallic frame. When selecting metallic accents, make sure they complement the color palette of your living room. Gold and copper work well with warm tones like beige and brown, while silver pairs well with cooler tones like grey and blue.
In the US, rose gold is a popular choice, especially for those looking to incorporate a softer metallic accent. In the EU, brass and bronze are trending, often used in a more vintage-inspired design context.
This design style creates a sense of elegance and sophistication, making the side of your TV a focal point of the room. The reflective quality of mirrors can also help to brighten the room and make it feel more spacious.
Modern Art with a Pop of Color
Modern art offers a dynamic way to add visual interest and personality to the side of your TV. This design choice is equally popular in both the US and EU, particularly amongst those who appreciate bold designs and expressive aesthetics. Modern art often features abstract shapes, bold colors, and dynamic compositions.
When selecting artwork, choose pieces that resonate with your personality and complement the existing color palette of your living room. If your living room is primarily neutral, you can introduce bold colors through a piece of modern art. However, if your living room has a vibrant color palette, opt for a modern art piece that features complementary colors or uses a similar color palette with different tones or shades.
Consider the size and scale of the artwork in relation to the TV and the surrounding furniture. A large, abstract piece can serve as a statement piece, while a smaller, more subtle piece can provide a gentle accent.
In the US, vibrant colors like bright blues, oranges, and yellows are popular, while in the EU, more muted tones like deep blues, olive greens, and terracotta are preferred.
This design choice adds a sense of dynamism and vibrancy to your living room, transforming the space into a gallery-like setting that showcases your unique style and taste.
Botanical Prints and Greenery
Botanical prints and greenery are another popular choice for decorating the side of your TV, reflecting the current trend of incorporating nature into interior design in both the US and EU. These prints often feature illustrations of plants, flowers, or leaves, adding a touch of tranquility and freshness to the space.
Choose prints that complement the color palette of your living room. If your living room uses neutral tones, you can introduce a pop of color through a botanical print featuring vibrant flowers or foliage. However, if your living room already has a strong color palette, opt for a botanical print with muted colors or a black and white print to maintain balance.
Pair the prints with real or artificial plants to enhance the natural feel of the space. In the US, succulents and cacti are popular, while in the EU, ferns, monsteras, and other lush greenery are favoured.
You can arrange the prints and plants on shelves, console tables, or even create a small vertical garden on the wall.
This design aesthetic creates a calm and refreshing atmosphere in your living room, making it feel more inviting and connected to nature.
Floating Shelves with Decorative Objects
Floating shelves are a practical and stylish way to add storage and visual interest to the side of your TV. This design solution is incredibly versatile and popular in both the US and EU, offering a modern and streamlined aesthetic. Floating shelves allow you to display decorative objects, books, plants, and other items, creating a personalized and visually engaging display.
Choose shelves that complement the color and style of your TV unit and the overall design of the living room. White or light wood shelves work well with a minimalist aesthetic, while dark wood or black shelves can create a more dramatic look.
Arrange decorative objects in a balanced and visually appealing way. Consider using a mix of textures, shapes, and sizes to create visual interest. In the US, a mix-and-match approach with eclectic finds is popular, while in the EU, a more curated and minimalist approach is favoured.
When it comes to color, you can either match the shelves with the existing color palette or use them as a way to introduce a new accent color.
Floating shelves are a great way to add character and personality to your living room without cluttering the space. They offer flexibility and functionality while enhancing the visual appeal of the TV area.
Vintage-Inspired Decor
Vintage-inspired decor is a popular choice for those who appreciate a touch of nostalgia and character. Both the US and EU are embracing vintage styles, with a particular focus on mid-century modern and antique pieces. When it comes to decorating the side of your TV, you can introduce vintage-inspired decor in a variety of ways.
Consider using a vintage console table or side table next to your TV. You can also incorporate vintage-inspired decorative objects like ceramic vases, antique books, or framed vintage prints.
When selecting items, look for pieces that complement the existing color palette of your living room. Muted tones like cream, beige, and olive green work well with vintage-inspired decor. In the US, a brighter color palette with pops of mustard yellow and terracotta is often incorporated, while in the EU, more subdued tones with pastel blues and greys are favoured.
You can create a cohesive look by selecting items with a similar style or era. For example, a collection of mid-century modern ceramic vases or a selection of antique books with leather bindings.
This design style adds a layer of warmth and history to your living room, making the space feel more inviting and personalized.
Sculptural Objects and Art
Sculptural objects and art are a great way to introduce a sense of intrigue and sophistication to the side of your TV. This design approach is popular in both the US and EU amongst those who appreciate a more artistic and eclectic aesthetic. Sculptural objects can range from abstract sculptures made of metal or wood to more figurative pieces.
When selecting artwork, choose pieces that complement the existing color palette and style of your living room. If your living room uses a neutral color palette, you can introduce a sculptural piece with a bold color or texture. However, if your living room already has a vibrant color palette, opt for a sculpture with a more muted color or a texture that complements the existing tones.
Consider the size and scale of the sculpture in relation to the TV and the surrounding furniture. A large sculptural piece can serve as a statement piece, while a smaller, more subtle piece can provide a gentle accent.
In the US, modern and abstract sculptures are popular, while in the EU, more traditional and figurative sculptures are favoured.
This design approach elevates the aesthetic of your living room, adding a sense of artistry and personality to the space. It transforms the side of your TV into a gallery-like display, showcasing your unique taste and artistic inclinations.
Textured Fabrics and Throw Pillows
Textured fabrics and throw pillows are a great way to introduce warmth and visual interest to the side of your TV. This design strategy is universally popular in both the US and EU, allowing for a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Consider using a textured throw blanket draped over the back of a sofa or a chair near the TV.
You can also introduce textured fabrics through throw pillows placed on the sofa or in decorative baskets.
When selecting fabrics, consider the color palette of your living room. Neutral tones like beige, cream, and grey work well with a variety of textures. In the US, chunky knit textures and faux fur are popular, while in the EU, linen and velvet textures are more favoured.
You can create visual interest by incorporating different textures, patterns, and colors in your throw pillows and blankets. For example, you could pair a chunky knit throw blanket with velvet pillows in complementary colours.
This design approach creates a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere in your living room, making the space feel more inviting and luxurious. It adds a layer of warmth and visual interest to the area surrounding the TV, creating a more balanced and appealing design.
Accent Lighting to Highlight Decor
Accent lighting is a clever way to enhance the visual appeal of the side of your TV and the decorative elements around it. This design technique is gaining popularity in both the US and EU, allowing you to emphasize specific areas and create a more inviting ambiance.
You can use a variety of lighting solutions, including table lamps, floor lamps, or wall sconces. Select lighting fixtures that complement the style of your living room and the existing decor. If your living room has a modern aesthetic, consider sleek, minimalist lamps. However, if your living room has a more traditional aesthetic, opt for lamps with ornate details or a vintage-inspired design.
When selecting light bulbs, choose warm-toned bulbs to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Consider using dimmer switches to adjust the brightness based on the mood and time of day.
In the US, LED strip lights are popular for highlighting shelves and artwork, while in the EU, more traditional lighting fixtures like table lamps and wall sconces are favored.
This design solution adds a layer of depth and sophistication to your living room, making the space feel more inviting and luxurious. It allows you to highlight specific decor elements and create a dynamic and visually appealing focal point beside your TV.
Built-in Bookshelves
Built-in bookshelves are a great way to add storage and visual interest to the side of your TV. This design choice is especially popular in the US and EU, providing a sleek and integrated look. Built-in bookshelves offer a seamless integration with the wall, allowing you to maximize storage space and create a visually appealing display.
Consider the style of your living room when designing the built-in bookshelves. If your living room has a modern aesthetic, consider minimalist shelves with clean lines. However, if your living room has a more traditional aesthetic, opt for shelves with ornate details or a vintage-inspired design.
You can use the bookshelves to display books, decorative objects, plants, and other items, creating a personalized and visually engaging display.
When it comes to color, you can either match the bookshelves with the existing color palette or use them as a way to introduce a new accent color.
In the US, white or light wood built-in bookshelves are popular, while in the EU, darker wood tones and painted finishes are favoured.
This design solution maximizes the functionality of the space while adding a sophisticated touch to your living room. It provides a seamless and visually appealing backdrop for your TV and decorative elements, creating a cohesive and stylish look.
Pops of Color with Throw Blankets and Cushions
Adding pops of color through throw blankets and cushions is a simple yet effective way to liven up the side of your TV. This approach is favored in both the US and EU, particularly among those seeking a quick and easy way to update their living room’s aesthetic. The key is to choose colors that complement your existing decor and add a touch of vibrancy to the space.
If your living room has a neutral color palette, you can introduce bold colors through throw blankets and cushions in shades like emerald green, mustard yellow, or deep blue. However, if your living room already has a vibrant color palette, consider using complementary colors or shades of existing colors to create a balanced and cohesive look.
You can also use patterns to add interest. Geometric patterns, floral prints, or abstract designs can add visual appeal and personality to the space. In the US, bolder patterns and bright colors are popular, while in the EU, softer patterns and more muted tones are often preferred.
These textile elements add a layer of warmth, comfort, and personality to your living room, making the space feel more inviting and stylish. They also serve as a quick and easy way to refresh the look of your space with minimal effort and expense.
Large-Scale Artwork with a Monochromatic Palette
A large-scale piece of artwork with a monochromatic palette can create a powerful and impactful focal point beside your TV. This approach is gaining traction in both the US and EU, as many designers and homeowners appreciate the way a large artwork can dominate a wall and create a sense of sophistication and visual interest.
Choosing a monochromatic palette helps to create a sense of calm and balance, while the large scale draws the eye and adds visual weight to the space. The artwork can feature abstract patterns, landscapes, or even simple geometric forms.
If your living room has a neutral color palette, you can introduce a bolder monochromatic artwork in shades of grey, black, or white. However, if your living room has a vibrant color palette, consider using a monochromatic artwork that incorporates one or two of the dominant colors in the room.
In the US, large-scale abstract pieces in black and white are trending, while in the EU, monochromatic landscapes or still lifes in shades of grey or blue are popular.
This design strategy adds a touch of artistry and sophistication to your living room, creating a strong visual statement that elevates the space and serves as a captivating conversation starter.
Indoor Plants and Macrame Wall Hangings
Blending the natural world with handcrafted elements creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. This trend is rising in popularity in both the US and EU, appealing to those seeking a balance of organic textures and bohemian aesthetics.
Indoor plants bring life and vibrancy to any space. Select plants that thrive in your living room’s light conditions, and consider their size and scale in relation to the wall and surrounding furniture. Popular choices in the US include succulents, ferns, and snake plants, while the EU often favors monsteras, ZZ plants, and fiddle-leaf figs.
Complement the greenery with macrame wall hangings. Macrame, a type of knotting technique, creates intricate patterns and textures, adding a handcrafted touch to the decor. The natural materials used in macrame, such as cotton or jute, blend seamlessly with the organic feel of the plants.
Use a neutral color palette for the macrame, like cream, beige, or natural brown, allowing the plants to pop against the textured background. You can also incorporate earthy tones in the plants’ pots to enhance the natural aesthetic.
This design concept creates a relaxed and bohemian ambiance, adding character and personality to the side of the TV. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to create a space that feels both stylish and welcoming.
