Where should the TV go?

A TV should be placed central to the main seating area at eye level when seated. It should also be positioned to avoid glare from windows and allow comfortable viewing distance based on the screen size.

A TV should be mounted so that the centre of the screen is at eye level when seated, which is typically around 1000-1100mm from the floor depending on your sofa height.

As a general guide, you should sit around 1.5 to 2.5 times the screen size away from the TV. For example, a 65-inch TV works well at roughly 2.4-3 metres viewing distance.

Mounting a TV above a fireplace is usually not ideal because it places the screen too high, leading to uncomfortable viewing angles. Heat from the fireplace can also affect the TV over time.

A TV can be placed opposite a window, but it is not ideal because natural light can cause glare and reflections on the screen. If unavoidable, consider blinds, curtains or anti-glare screens.

Wall mounting a TV creates a cleaner look and saves space, but requires planning for cables and sockets. Placing a TV on a unit is easier to install and more flexible if you want to change the layout later.

Plug sockets should be positioned behind or just below the TV, depending on whether it is wall mounted or on a unit. Planning this early helps avoid visible cables and extension leads.

A good rule is to choose a TV size based on viewing distance. For example, 50-65 inch TVs suit rooms with 1.8-2.4m viewing distance, while 65-80 inch TVs suit 2.4-3m distances.

A TV does not have to be the focal point, but it should still be positioned carefully. Planning around seating, lighting and layout ensures it works within the room without dominating it.

To reduce glare, avoid placing the TV directly opposite windows, use blinds or curtains to control light, and consider the position of artificial lighting such as ceiling lights and lamps.