The space behind your television can often feel like a design afterthought, a blank canvas begging for attention. But it’s a prime opportunity to infuse personality and style into your living room. Whether you’re embracing minimalist aesthetics or leaning into bold maximalism, the wall behind your TV can serve as a focal point, setting the tone for the entire room. This article explores 22 design ideas to help you transform that often-overlooked area into a captivating feature, showcasing the latest trends in both the US and EU in terms of color palettes, textures, and design styles.
Modern Art Gallery
The modern art gallery aesthetic is a popular choice, particularly in the US, for those who want a touch of sophistication and visual interest. This approach involves curating a collection of framed art prints or canvas paintings that reflect your personal style. The colors can range from muted neutrals like beige and grey, characteristic of minimalist design in the EU, to vibrant hues like turquoise and coral, popular in contemporary US interiors. For a cohesive look, consider sticking to a particular color palette or theme for the artwork. Think about the overall feel you want to create: calming and serene or energetic and bold. You can incorporate textures like canvas, wood frames, or even metallic accents for a touch of luxury. The key is to curate a collection that is both visually appealing and reflects your personal taste. In 2023, we’ve seen a resurgence of abstract art, bold geometric patterns, and nature-inspired prints, making these themes ideal for achieving this look. Remember to consider the size of your TV and the wall space when selecting artwork, ensuring it complements rather than competes with the screen.
Earthy Tones and Natural Textures
Embracing natural elements and earthy tones is a prominent trend in both the US and EU, reflecting a desire for a calming and inviting atmosphere. This style incorporates textures like woven tapestries, wood panels, or even a feature wall of natural stone. The color palette usually revolves around warm neutrals like beige, cream, and terracotta, often complemented by pops of deep green or rich brown. In US living rooms, incorporating accents of burnt orange or mustard yellow is also becoming popular. The EU has leaned towards more subtle variations of beige and grey, sometimes featuring soft, muted blues. You can further enhance the organic feel with natural materials like rattan or jute baskets placed strategically on shelves or within the TV unit. This design creates a sense of serenity and connection to nature, making it an ideal choice for those who want a relaxing and grounding environment in their living room. Consider incorporating large, potted plants to amplify the natural feel. This trend is especially popular in open-plan living spaces, where it can visually separate the living area from other zones without being overly imposing.
Geometric Wallpaper
Geometric wallpaper is a fantastic way to add a touch of modern flair and visual interest to the wall behind your TV. Both US and EU interior designers have embraced this trend, using it to create a statement wall that instantly elevates the room. The choice of pattern and color is vast, ranging from subtle, repeating patterns in soft pastels (popular in Scandinavian-inspired EU interiors) to bold, graphic designs in vibrant jewel tones (a staple of contemporary US design). The key is to choose a pattern that complements your existing decor and the overall style of the room. For instance, a chevron pattern can create a sense of movement and energy, while a subtle grid pattern offers a more minimalist and contemporary feel. Ensure the wallpaper chosen contrasts subtly or boldly with your TV unit’s finish and the color scheme of your furniture. This contrast can help create a visual focal point without overpowering the room. When choosing colors, consider the lighting in your living room: cool tones work well with natural light, while warmer tones are more flattering in rooms with less natural light.
Metallic Accents and Murals
Injecting a touch of luxury and glamour into your living room is easily achieved with metallic accents behind the TV. This trend is particularly popular in the US, where gold, copper, and silver finishes are frequently used in contemporary and transitional design styles. The EU is also embracing metallics, but often in a more subtle manner, incorporating brushed brass or pewter accents for a sophisticated yet understated look. Metallic wall paint, a wallpaper with metallic flecks, or even a decorative mural with metallic detailing can be a stunning backdrop for your television. When choosing metallic colors, consider the overall color scheme of your living room. Gold and copper work well with warm tones like beige, brown, and mustard yellow, while silver complements cool tones like grey, blue, and white. For a cohesive look, try incorporating other metallic elements throughout the room, such as lamps, picture frames, or decorative objects. A carefully chosen mural can be a fantastic way to create a focal point and tell a story. Think about themes that relate to your interests or the overall style of your living room – a cityscape, a botanical scene, or even a geometric design can add a unique touch.
Boho Chic with Macrame
Boho chic is a style that celebrates color, texture, and eclecticism. This approach to decorating behind the TV is popular in both the US and EU, particularly among younger generations. Macrame wall hangings are a key feature of this style, adding a sense of warmth and handcrafted charm. Earthy tones like terracotta, beige, and cream are frequently used in this style, complemented by vibrant accents of turquoise, mustard yellow, and burnt orange, especially in US interiors. EU-inspired Boho chic often features more muted variations of these colors, like dusty rose and sage green. The macrame itself can be incorporated in various ways – a large, statement piece behind the TV, a series of smaller hangings arranged in a pattern, or even integrated into a shelving unit. Combine the macrame with other elements of the Boho style, such as woven baskets, patterned cushions, and plants in terracotta pots. The key is to create a space that feels relaxed, inviting, and reflects your personal style. In addition to macrame, consider incorporating other handcrafted elements like dreamcatchers, woven textiles, or vintage rugs to enhance the bohemian vibe.
Gallery Wall with Personal Photos
A gallery wall is a classic and versatile way to personalize the space behind your TV. Both US and EU homeowners love this option for showcasing memories, artwork, and personal style. Creating a gallery wall around your TV can transform a blank space into a captivating visual narrative. The key is to choose a mix of frames and sizes to create visual interest, and to ensure the overall composition is balanced and appealing. Consider incorporating a mix of black and white photos, colorful prints, and artwork that complements your living room’s color palette. In the US, a more eclectic and colorful approach is often seen, while EU-inspired gallery walls tend to be more curated and cohesive, possibly featuring a specific color scheme or a theme like travel or family portraits. You can create a focal point by framing a large, statement piece or incorporating a mirror into the gallery wall. The overall impression should feel curated and reflect the personality of the homeowners. This is a particularly flexible design, easily adaptable to changes in your style or new additions to your home.
Vintage or Antique Mirror
Adding a vintage or antique mirror behind the TV can instantly elevate the room’s aesthetic and create an illusion of space. This design choice is popular in both the US and EU, particularly among those who appreciate classic and timeless styles. A large, ornate mirror can serve as a striking focal point, reflecting light and making the living room feel brighter and more spacious. In US interiors, the focus is often on ornate, gilded frames, while EU-inspired styles may lean towards more minimalist frames in dark wood or polished silver. The style of the mirror should complement the overall design of the room. For example, a vintage mirror with a distressed frame fits well in a rustic or farmhouse-style living room, while a sleek, Art Deco-inspired mirror complements a modern or glamorous space. Be mindful of the size of the mirror in relation to the TV and the wall, ensuring it doesn’t overwhelm the space or compete with the TV for attention. This design choice adds a touch of elegance and history to your living room while creating a sense of depth and light.
Minimalist Decor with Subtle Accents
Minimalism is gaining popularity in both the US and EU, especially in urban settings where space is often at a premium. This approach favors simplicity and functionality, focusing on clean lines and a limited color palette. The wall behind the TV becomes a canvas for understated elegance, with a focus on subtle accents rather than bold statements. The color palette typically includes neutral shades like white, beige, grey, and black, with occasional pops of color for accent. The US sees a growing trend towards incorporating muted blues and greens as accent colors, while the EU continues to favor a more monochrome palette with accents of natural wood or stone. The design emphasizes texture, often with materials like natural wood, stone, or linen. A simple piece of artwork in black and white or a muted color can provide a subtle focal point. This style emphasizes clean lines, so consider a sleek, minimalist TV unit and avoid clutter. The goal is to create a calming and serene atmosphere that is both visually appealing and easy to maintain.
Warm Wood Paneling
Wood paneling is experiencing a resurgence, particularly in the US and EU as a way to add warmth and texture to a space. When used behind the TV, wood paneling can create a stunning focal point that elevates the room’s aesthetic. The choice of wood and finish can drastically affect the overall feel. Darker wood tones like walnut and mahogany create a rich and sophisticated atmosphere, popular in traditional US design and contemporary EU aesthetics. Lighter woods like oak and maple offer a more airy and brighter feel, well-suited to Scandinavian-inspired EU designs and contemporary US living rooms. The style of the paneling itself can also vary from traditional vertical planks to more modern horizontal or herringbone patterns. Consider how the wood tone complements your existing furniture and decor. For instance, warm wood tones pair well with cream, beige, and brown accents, while cool wood tones work well with grey, blue, and white. This design choice brings a touch of nature and sophistication to your living room, creating a warm and inviting environment.
Brick Accent Wall
A brick accent wall is a popular choice for those who want to inject a touch of industrial chic or rustic charm into their living room. This design trend is popular in both the US and EU, offering a versatile backdrop for a TV and a unique visual appeal. The color of the brick can vary depending on the desired aesthetic. A classic red brick wall offers a traditional and rustic feel, common in US farmhouse styles. Whitewashed or painted brick in various shades of grey or beige are popular in contemporary EU interiors, offering a more minimalist aesthetic. Ensure the brick complements the other elements in the room. For example, a whitewashed brick wall works well with a minimalist or Scandinavian-inspired living room, while a dark, red brick wall pairs beautifully with industrial or rustic elements. Consider the size and shape of the brick as well, as these elements influence the overall visual impact. This design choice brings a sense of character and authenticity to your living room, making it a conversation starter and a focal point.
Textured Paint or Stucco
Adding texture to the wall behind your TV can add depth and visual interest without overwhelming the space. This trend is prevalent in both the US and EU, appealing to those who prefer a more understated approach to design. Textured paint or stucco can be used to create a variety of effects, from subtle and refined to bold and dramatic. In the US, textured paints with a subtle, sandy finish or a faux-finished Venetian plaster are gaining popularity. EU-inspired designs often incorporate a more subtle texture, perhaps with a stippled or combed effect, often using neutral colors. Consider how the texture will interact with the light in your living room. A rougher texture can absorb light, making the room appear cozier, while a smoother texture reflects light, making the space feel brighter. The color choice should complement the existing decor and the overall style of the living room. Neutral tones like beige, grey, and cream are popular choices, but you can also incorporate pops of color for a more vibrant look. This design choice creates visual interest and a sense of depth, making the wall behind your TV a compelling focal point without being overly distracting.
Bold Colored Feature Wall
A bold colored feature wall is a classic and effective way to make a statement behind your TV. This approach is embraced in both the US and EU, though the choice of color and intensity varies between the two regions. In the US, vibrant jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red are popular for creating a dramatic focal point. EU-inspired designs often lean towards softer, more muted shades like dusty rose, teal, or olive green. The color you choose should complement the rest of the decor and the overall style of your living room. Consider the size of the room and the amount of natural light it receives when choosing a bold color. Darker colors can make a small room feel smaller, while lighter colors can make a large room feel more spacious. It’s important to consider the impact of the chosen color on the mood of the room. For instance, warm colors like orange or red can create a sense of energy and excitement, while cool colors like blue or green can promote a sense of calm and tranquility. This design choice is a simple but powerful way to transform the feel of your living room.
Floating Shelves with Decorative Objects
Floating shelves offer a versatile and practical solution for displaying decorative objects and adding visual interest to the wall behind your TV. This design solution is popular in both US and EU interior design, especially in modern and minimalist aesthetics. The shelves themselves can be made of various materials, from wood and metal to glass, allowing for a wide range of aesthetic possibilities. In the US, a mix-and-match approach to materials and color is often used, creating a dynamic look. EU-inspired designs often lean towards a more cohesive look, with shelves in a single material and color. The objects displayed on the shelves can further enhance the overall design. Consider incorporating a mix of textures and colors to create visual interest. You can display books, plants, decorative bowls, candles, or framed photos to reflect your personal style. The key is to create a balanced and visually appealing arrangement. Ensure the shelves are securely mounted and don’t obstruct the TV screen or create a cluttered appearance. This design choice is a great way to personalize the space behind your TV and incorporate elements that reflect your individual taste.
Built-in Storage and Display Units
Built-in storage and display units offer a sophisticated and practical solution for managing clutter and showcasing decorative objects behind the TV. This design approach is popular in both the US and EU, particularly in living rooms where space optimization is a priority. Built-in units can be designed to seamlessly integrate with the wall, creating a sleek and cohesive look. The materials used for the units can be tailored to complement the existing decor, from natural wood and stone to sleek, modern materials like laminate or glass. In the US, built-in units with a more eclectic mix of materials and open shelving are popular. EU-inspired designs often feature a more minimalist aesthetic, with clean lines and a focus on functionality. The storage compartments can be used to house media equipment, books, or other items, while the display shelves provide space for decorative objects and artwork. The design of the unit should be considered in relation to the size and style of the living room, ensuring it complements the overall aesthetic and doesn’t overwhelm the space. This design choice creates a sense of order and elegance while providing a practical solution for storing and displaying items.
Art Deco Inspired Patterns
Art Deco is making a comeback in both the US and EU, injecting a sense of glamour and sophistication into living rooms. The design style is characterized by geometric patterns, rich colors, and luxurious materials. Incorporating Art Deco-inspired patterns behind the TV can create a focal point that elevates the room’s aesthetic. Think about incorporating patterns featuring sunbursts, chevrons, zigzags, or geometric grids in bold colors like gold, black, and emerald green, especially popular in US design. The EU is embracing softer variations of these colors, often using muted gold and navy blue. These patterns can be incorporated through wallpaper, decorative panels, or even artwork. The key is to choose a pattern that complements the overall style of your living room and doesn’t overwhelm the space. Consider the size of the room and the amount of natural light when choosing colors and patterns. This design choice adds a touch of vintage glamour and sophistication to the space, creating a visually striking focal point.
Scandinavian-inspired Minimalism
Scandinavian design has gained significant traction in both the US and EU, especially in homes seeking a sense of calm and simplicity. This aesthetic emphasizes natural materials, light color palettes, and functionality. When applying this to the TV wall, the focus is on clean lines and minimal clutter. The color palette typically includes muted shades of white, beige, and grey, often accented with natural wood tones, particularly popular in EU interiors. The US is embracing Scandinavian aesthetics with warmer neutrals like cream and beige, often incorporating pops of color like mustard yellow or teal. Artwork is often minimal, focusing on nature-inspired prints or abstract designs. The TV unit should be sleek and functional, with built-in storage to keep the area free of clutter. This design choice creates a calming and serene atmosphere, making the living room a relaxing and welcoming space for everyone. Consider adding natural elements like plants and sheepskin rugs to complete the Scandinavian look.
