Outdoor Fireplace in Denver
Why choose between the TV and the fireplace in a living room or when you can have both? A television and fireplace are both powerful elements that draw people’s eyes. But you can combine their attention-drawing abilities by mounting the screen above the mantel. It can even work for an outdoor fireplace in Denver.
With a TV above your fireplace, you can enjoy your favorite web series during the winter comfortably. It maintains the fireplace’s position as the room’s centerpiece even during summer. You can either place it on the mantel or mount it on the wall above.
Just check a few things before you try decorating the mantel with a flat screen. Once you’re sure that it’s viable, you can try a few creative ideas.
Test Temperature Above Mantel
Fireplace inserts in Denver are designed to disperse the heat throughout the room rather than above it. So placing your TV there shouldn’t be a problem. But you should still check the temperature to be on the safe side.
Place a thermometer on the area you plan on placing the screen, roughly where the bottom part will be. Once you get the reading, compare it with the max temperature recommended by the manufacturer. If the reading is below the recommended temperature, then you can go ahead with the installation. Else, find a better spot.
Check Outlet Positions
If your closest outlet is on the opposite wall, then placing a flat screen there might be impractical. You may need long wires and extension cords, which can be messy. If possible, install an outlet near the fireplace.
When installing the set, plan how you will place the connections so that they don’t look messy. You can use a covering of the same color as the wall to hide the wires.
Place TV Close To Eye Level
You shouldn’t have to strain your neck to view the screen. Place the screen on the mantel and sit from where you plan on viewing it. If your mantel is higher than eye level, then add a mounting bracket or stand that you can tilt.
Put Some Books On The Mantel
Books aren’t just for reading, they add colors and warmth to the area. Look for books with attractive spines that match the style you want. You can either stand them below the screen or stack them on either side.
Frame Wall-Mount Screen
If you are using a wall-mounted screen, you can make it look like an art piece by adding a frame. You might have seen pictures of fireplaces with paintings above them. Now think what if those paintings could move? This is the idea behind framing a flat screen.
You can find different types of frames from vintage to minimalist. Consider your tastes and the fireplace’s style when making your choice.
Hang Picture And Paintings On The Sides
You can turn the mantel area into a gallery with some pictures and photographs on the sides. This takes the focus away from the screen and brings it to the surrounding areas.
You can go for a symmetric or asymmetric layout. In a symmetric layout, you hang an equal number of frames of roughly the same sizes on either side. An asymmetric style gives you more freedom, letting you cover even the area above, but is tricky to get right.
Install Track-Mounted Art Or Mirrors
A track-mounted painting or mirror adds to the visual appeal. It can hide the screen when you aren’t watching anything and hang above while you watch your favorite show. Some people motorize the tracks for convenience.
Paint Wall Above Mantel
Make the area stand apart even more by painting it with a suitable color. This will make the placement of TV look purposeful rather than subtle. You can try patterns like zigzags, swirls, etc.
Place Talls Shelves On The Sides
Identical tall shelves on both sides give the area an enclosed and subtle look. You can decorate the shelves with books, pictures, trophies, etc.
