Designer's Eye: Buying furniture with an eye on TV

LIVING ROOM | Watching shows is a family affair for six-member clan

Dear Designer's Eye,

I am having the hardest time with my living room arrangement. We are a family of six and love to watch TV together. The problem is we all cannot view our 47-inch plasma TV that is mounted on our wall.

I am planning on purchasing new living room furniture, but the problem is what type to buy and arrange so we all can enjoy our new TV. When we bought our TV, we were advised not to place the TV opposite the windows due to glare, and not to place it on the wall where the main entrance door is located due to the closing and opening of door.

What do you think?

Best regards,

Maria

Michelle's Interiors Ltd.

518 Barron Blvd.

Grayslake, IL 60030

(847) 223-2660

www.michellesinteriors.com

Dear Maria,

With a family of six, it can be cozy watching TV and enjoying some family time. The family room being 16x18 is a great size to work with. I hope these recommendations will help your family enjoy TV together!

Enjoy,

Michelle

1. DON'T MOVE TV

I recommend you keep the TV in its current location and take advantage of a sectional for seating. The sectional can easily accommodate different ages and family members. Also, by keeping a clean line, you won't break up the conversation or traffic pattern.

2. GO OTTOMAN

For a coffee table, I think an ottoman is the perfect fit. It would serve two purposes: Anyone who would like to stretch out their legs will have a comfortable place to lounge. You'll also have a place to serve snacks.

3. COZY CORNER

There is also room to create a second seating area, which can act as a private space or quiet reading corner when not watching TV.

4. DIM THE LIGHTS

Lastly, I recommend you add a solar shade on the windows to dim the room on a very sunny day or to make the room completely dark for movie nights.