by Lucy Honeychurch

Created on: October 13, 2008

The argument over whether or not a TV should be hidden is really a matter of personal preference. It's your life, your home, your room and your TV. It isn't a question of pretending you don't have a TV or don't watch TV, it totally has to do with personal style (or lack thereof). There is no right or wrong. It's just individual style.

If you don't have a particular style or it's sort of a hodgepodge, then it probably doesn't matter much either way. Also, very contemporary homes lend themselves more to the display of electronic doodads than more traditional abodes.When I was starting out, I couldn't have cared less. Some people, especially guys, like to show off their electronic equipment. If that's the case then why hide the TV? Others actually want the world to see how big the screen is. To some, it's actually become a status symbol. Putting a set over a fireplace mantle is the latest fad. I've actually seen people sit in a room with a large set and sit staring at the set even though it isn't on.

I've spent considerable time, effort and money making our family room just the way we envisioned it when we moved into our restored home. The fireplace is stone, the floors are wide plank pine, the rugs are orientals and all of the furniture is antique mostly from family but some purchased. The room finally has the cozy, welcoming feel that we love. No way do I want the focal point to be a 50" TV.

I totally understand, that if a room is designated as a media room or is loaded with sports memorabilia or game tables it only makes sense to have the TV visible. It would be ridiculous to hide the electronics if they are the whole purpose of the room.

It took ages but I finally found an old armoire at an estate sale and had it modified to fit the TV and all of the related equipment. The only downside was the price but I figure it's forever and when we replace the set we probably won't replace it with a smaller one. It fits neatly in a corner. All of the wires have been bundled behind and it just looks like the beautiful antique that it is. I have noticed , in the last year or so, that a number of companies make armoires for large sets. Hooker has a number of them. Believe it or not, Ballard designs has one that looks pretty good on the catalog page and it fits into a corner. I think it will hold a 46" set. The internet is loaded with ideas, too, although it is still kind of hard to fine one for a larger set.

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