As the traditional CRT (cathode ray tube) televisions leave the home for recycling depots across the country many homeowners are faced with the dilemma of how to place their new flat screen television. The wide screen format of flat screen televisions does not allow them to fit into the classic home entertainment centers so not only has their entrance into the market killed the tube-style television it has changed the way people physically watch their television sets.

Focal Point

In the 1950's television took the place of the cabinet radio in living rooms as the center of attraction. The sets were beautifully-crafted and were later combined with stereo and radio as entertainment-style furniture. Then in the late 1960's and into the 1970's the birth of specialized recreational rooms took the television to rumpus rooms and other specialized areas of the home. In the living room the fireplace became the focal point and the living room became secondary in family usage.

Now that the television set has evolved into a picture-sized entertainment package it can be hung on walls rather than perched on a special stand. So instead of hiding in another room this thin screen has become part of the aesthetics of the main living room. This has created a problem for designers who want to include both the television and fireplace in one area when they draw out plans for a new home or renovation.

To Hang or To Hide

Rather than being part of a collage of items in the entertainment center the modern flat-screen television is taking its place as a focal point or is being completely hidden. Placing the television in a hidden space it can be retrieved like a pocket door for viewing. In this way it will not clash with carefully-designed living rooms. Polls taken by manufacturers have shown that homeowners over the age of 45 like the TV hidden away in a cabinet or behind a retractable wall while younger ones want it front and center. Some designers have combined the screen with the aesthetics using pre-programmed, changing scenes to compliment the room. For example, a western-style, log home may have a television on the main wall or rock fireplace that presents a slide show of mountain scenery.

Going the Distance

Not only is the placement of flat screen televisions important for the beauty of the rook but also for viewing. Most flat screens look the best when they are viewed directly. In addition the size of the set should decide the distance from the viewers. For example, television manufacturer, Samsung, recommends that the size of the screen can be calculated by measuring the distance from the watcher at eye-level to the screen and then dividing it by three. So, if the distance is 120 inches then the viewer should buy a 40-inch screen.

No Wires

New home designs take into account that flat screen televisions, like their predecessors, require some wiring. This is why they make allowances for a utility area closeby for amplifiers, satellite receivers and other support systems. This area could be tied to a closet in the next room so that just by opening a door the works is easily available. Wireless systems also make it easier to access the DVD player housed in this unit so that the only thing visible n the room are the television and remote control.

Lighting

Just like in a real movie theater dark is better. Many designers look at automatic blackout shades and dimming systems for these rooms.

For more information on flat screen televisions and home entertainment centers consult our Contractor Directory for a home entertainment specialist or simply post your project and a contractor will contact you.

Kim Kinrade writes for renovation, travel and news sites. When he is not doing this, or renovating old houses, he finds the time to write novels.