To Conceal or Reveal: Navigating the TV Dilemma in Contemporary Interiors

In the era of sleek, high-definition screens and minimalist design, the television remains a central fixture in our homes. Once an awkward presence, the modern TV is now a shiny black rectangle that demands attention, prompting homeowners and designers alike to grapple with the age-old question: Should you bother hiding the TV?

While some argue that televisions are a necessary eyesore in today’s tech-centric world, others seek innovative ways to integrate them seamlessly into interior spaces. This debate has given rise to a spectrum of design approaches, from concealing the TV behind elegant cabinets to proudly displaying it as a statement piece of furniture. In this exploration, we delve into the opinions of design experts and their strategies for striking the right balance between functionality and aesthetics.

Concealing the TV: A Sophisticated Solution

Los Angeles–based AD100 designer Jake Arnold is a proponent of hiding the TV when it occupies more formal living and entertaining spaces. His strategy involves integrating the television into a purpose-built cabinet, offering a discreet solution that can be concealed when not in use. Arnold’s approach not only maintains the room’s aesthetic integrity but also provides the flexibility to switch between casual and formal atmospheres.

Arnold’s work on Chrissy Teigen and John Legend’s living room in Beverly Hills showcases his adept skill in marrying functionality with style. The bespoke cabinet, adorned in chinoiserie-inspired fabric by Jim Thompson, serves as an elegant disguise for the TV. Theatrically revealing the screen when needed, this concealed approach allows the homeowners to enjoy the benefits of a television without compromising the visual harmony of their space.

The trend towards hiding TVs is not just about concealing an eyesore but also about elevating the overall design. Clients are increasingly open to investing in creative and beautiful solutions that seamlessly integrate technology into their homes, offering a testament to the evolving expectations of modern homeowners.

Embracing the TV as a Design Element

On the flip side of the debate are designers who view the TV as an opportunity for bold design statements. Rather than treating the television as an inconvenient necessity, some advocate for making it a focal point of the room, incorporating it into the overall aesthetic vision.

This approach often involves selecting statement furniture or unique design solutions that turn the TV into an artful element within the space. By embracing the TV as part of the decor, designers can transform the black mirror into a visually pleasing addition rather than a disruption.

Ultimately, the decision to conceal or reveal the TV comes down to personal preferences and the intended function of the space. While some may opt for the sleek and hidden approach, others find joy in showcasing their television as a piece of functional art.

In a world where screens are an integral part of our daily lives, the debate on whether to hide or highlight the TV continues. As technology advances and design trends evolve, the conversation around incorporating TVs into interiors will likely persist, challenging designers to find innovative solutions that balance form and function in the modern home.