Let’s admit that most of us love our TVs! Whether for a family movie night or viewing your favourite series, the TV is the focal point of most living rooms. Unfortunately though, TVs aren’t the most attractive piece of furniture. Here’s where entertainment centres can help! Before you think you don’t have the space or that you wouldn’t find one to match your décor, have a read about some common misconceptions and décor tips!

You think: “Entertainment units are all big.”
No! Even if your space is smaller, you can still fit an entertainment unit. Many have a small footprint, about the same width as a mid-sized TV. You’re actually creating real estate by adding shelves.

You think: “Entertainment units lack style—they’re all basic brown wood.”
Not anymore! Whether your home is contemporary, traditional or somewhere in between, there’s an entertainment centre that will accentuate your style. Check out the rustic, distressed and classic options available. There are also sleek, modern versions with minimal detailing – whatever works in your home.

You think: “Can I really fit everything neatly in an entertainment centre?”
Absolutely! Consider a larger model with doors, drawers and shelves. Keep in mind that if you want to hide your DVDs, movies, etc., choose a unit with solid doors. You can also choose an entertainment centre with doors covering the TV, for a really put together look.

You think: “I need a large-sized entertainment centre, but I don’t want it to overwhelm the room.”
Some units have full or partial backs, some are fully open. To minimize the impact, choose an open backed model, letting the wall behind show through – and keep your display items less obtrusive – also to show more wall.

Speaking of walls. The wall behind an entertainment centre is an ideal choice for an accent wall. It’s already the focal point, so perhaps choose to paint it a different colour or add bold striped wallpaper?

Now that you have extra display shelves, how do you decorate them?

• Storage. Store items you don’t want visible behind doors. Need more storage? Use baskets on the shelves. They add texture, look great and keep accessories, etc. out of sight but in easy reach.
• Theme. Display items of a particular genre – stone sculptures, wood carvings or pottery for example. Place throughout the unity to unify the display.
• Family items. Collections or mementos are perfect. A model airplane, a musical instrument, etc.
• Books. Always welcome, provided they are hard cover and aesthetically pleasing. HINT: Sometimes a book jacket hides a beautiful cover and binding underneath!
• Mirrors and art. Add height, depth and colour with small mirrors or framed photos/art.
• Mix it up. Even if you’re using a theme, keep it interesting – showcase items of various size, shape, colour and form.
• Don’t forget the top! Many units have a full shelf along the top. What a great place for a collection of vases and a beautiful plant.

Before you grab the TV remote, explore your entertainment centre options. Consider the beauty, functionality and organization they can add to your home.

Tags: design tips, Furniture, home entertainment