How to Hide a TV: A Quick Guide

February 2025

In today’s homes, blending style with technology is a top priority. Hiding your TV is one way to achieve this feat, and doing so offers the opportunity to elevate a room’s aesthetics and functionality.

With innovations like Auton’s TV lift mechanisms, you can easily conceal your screen while keeping it accessible for entertainment.

And if you need ideas on how to hide your TV, you can find 15 clever ways to try it in various rooms, from living rooms to bedrooms and other spaces.

Let's create a space that reflects your style, not just your entertainment choices.

1. Install a TV Lift Mechanism

Installing a TV lift mechanism is a sleek way to enhance your living area while keeping it functional.

You can install this system correctly by following these key steps:

Start by selecting a lift that supports your TV's dimensions and weight.
Find a spot in your cabinetry or behind furniture where the lift can be installed discreetly.
Securely mount the lift following the manufacturer's instructions, checking that it's stable and strong enough for regular use.
Connect the lift to a power source and its control system, like a remote control.
Finally, mount your TV onto the lift, test the setup to ensure it operates smoothly, and enjoy a clean, uncluttered living space that keeps your TV hidden until needed.

This approach is perfect for maintaining minimalist decor and making sure that technology does not disturb a room’s interior design.

2. Use Sliding Panels

Sliding panels are a stylish and practical way to conceal your TV. These elegant panels, often mounted on tracks, glide effortlessly to reveal your TV for your entertainment and then seamlessly hide it away when you're done.

With sliding panels, you can keep your living space clean and uncluttered while adding a touch of sophistication to the decor.

In addition, these panel mechanisms are highly customizable, meaning you can perfectly match them with your room’s aesthetic by selecting materials like sleek metal, warm wood, or vibrant fabric.

Do note that this method may require some modification to your existing cabinetry. However, the end result is a truly integrated and aesthetically pleasing solution.

3. Employ a Two-Way Mirror

A two-way mirror can be an unexpected yet stylish way to hide your TV.

For this method, you start by choosing a two-way mirror that matches the dimensions of your TV. Mount the mirror directly in front of your TV on a wall or within a custom frame.

When off, it reflects light and makes your room feel more spacious. When turned on, the screen becomes visible.

This unique solution adds a touch of intrigue to your living space. However, the two-way mirror effect can be sensitive to lighting conditions, so do consider that before opting for this method.

4. Create a Gallery Wall

To create a gallery wall around your TV, start by selecting a few of your favorite framed artworks and photographs that resonate with your personal style.

Arrange them around your TV to create a cohesive display that draws attention away from the screen.

This not only camouflages the TV but also adds a personal touch to your decor. Plus, a gallery wall can serve as a conversation starter when you have guests over.

So, instead of just a blank wall with a TV, you can showcase your creativity and make your home feel more like you.

5. Hide Behind Cabinet Doors

This one is a classic and versatile option for hiding your TV in plain sight.

By installing custom cabinetry and utilizing TV cabinet lifts, you can simply open and close the doors to conceal the TV when not in use.

It’s a great way to showcase personal items like books or family decor on the shelves, making your space feel more inviting.

When you are ready for movie night, just swing open the doors—it’s that easy! Plus, this method helps keep dust off your TV, which can extend its lifespan.

6. Use a Pull-Down Map or Artwork

You can mount a retractable piece above your TV, so when you want to watch your favorite show, just pull it down with ease.

This method not only conceals the screen but also adds an interesting focal point to your decor when the TV is out of sight.

It's a fantastic way to incorporate your personality into the space, whether you choose a vintage map or a beautiful piece of art.

In addition, this mounting solution is budget-friendly and allows for more customization in your space.

7. Employ a Decorative Folding Screen

A decorative folding screen is a movable furniture piece made up of several connected panels. It comes in various materials like wood, fabric, or metal and often features beautiful designs.

With folding screens, you can do more than hide your TV. You can also increase the privacy in the space, enhance the decor, and quickly move and adjust the setup as needed.

Other than that, they can easily be positioned in front of your TV to conceal it when not in use, creating a clean and uncluttered look.

Lastly, folding screens are available in a variety of styles and materials, from traditional Japanese shoji screens to contemporary metal and fabric designs.

While this might not be the most automated solution, it's a simple and cost-effective way to hide your TV.

8. Install a Ceiling Lift

For those with high ceilings or limited floor space, a ceiling lift is a fantastic option.

This system seamlessly lowers your TV from the ceiling when you're ready to watch and then retracts it back up—entirely out of sight—when you're done.

This is a genuine space-saving solution that maintains a clean and uncluttered look. While it requires professional installation and may have a higher upfront cost, the wow factor of a TV descending from the ceiling is undeniable.

9. Conceal with Curtains or Drapes

Curtains or drapes offer a simple and cost-effective way to conceal your TV. This method is easy to implement and can add a touch of coziness and warmth to your living space.

Here is how you can use it in your space:

Choose curtains that complement your room's decor and are thick enough to hide the TV altogether.
Install a curtain rod above the TV, extending slightly beyond the screen's edges for full coverage.
Hang the curtains and simply draw them closed to conceal the TV when not in use.

While they might not provide total concealment, curtains and drapes are reliable options for those seeking a quick and affordable solution.

10. Use a TV Cover Cabinet

To install a TV cover cabinet, start by measuring your TV to make sure that it fits the cabinet.

Select a cabinet designed for TVs. It should be sturdy and have a smooth-closing front panel to conceal the television screen, protect it from dust, and improve the cleanliness of your room.

If you want to boost the functionality of your setup, you can opt for wall-mount cabinets that offer additional storage.

When it comes to installation, place the cabinet in a part of your living space that complements your existing decor, and secure the TV inside using the provided mounts or stands.

11. Incorporate into Built-In Shelving

Built-in shelving is a great way to integrate your TV into your living space while maximizing functionality.

Custom-designed shelves can be built around your TV, creating a dedicated entertainment center. This not only hides the TV when it is not in use but also provides valuable storage space for books, movies, or decorative items.

It might require some planning and potentially professional installation, but the end result is a practical, functional, and visually appealing solution.

12. Employ a Projector and Retractable Screen

A projector and retractable screen are ideal solutions if you would like to hide your TV but still enjoy a large-screen viewing experience.

For this method, begin by mounting the projector on the ceiling or wall in a spot that offers the best viewing angle.

After, install a retractable screen that can be tucked away when not in use. This will keep your living room open and free from the bulk of a traditional TV.

This method allows you to enjoy a bigger screen for movie nights or special occasions, all while keeping your space neat and uncluttered.

Additionally, projectors can be used to display digital art or create a unique ambiance in your home.

Even if you already have a TV, a projector gives you a bigger screen for an enhanced experience, similar to how you might hide a computer monitor when not in use to save space.

13. Use a TV Stand with Sliding Doors

A TV stand with sliding doors is another simple and affordable way to hide your TV when it’s not in use.

The sliding doors provide basic concealment, protecting the screen from dust and offering a clean look when the TV is off.

In addition to offering enhanced protection, this setup is easy to operate, with the doors sliding open and closed effortlessly.

However, it may not offer complete concealment, especially in well-lit rooms where the TV’s outline may still be visible. Still, it is a practical and stylish choice for maintaining a tidy, minimalistic space.

14. Hide Within a Pop-Up Cabinet

Pop-up cabinets are a space-saving solution for hiding your TV, especially in smaller spaces or areas where the TV isn't always in use.

Install the TV cabinet at the foot of your bed or behind other furniture. It has a motorized system that pops up the TV when you’re ready to watch it.

When you’re done, simply lower the TV back into the cabinet to keep the space neat and clutter-free.

This method offers a great way to keep your room looking tidy without sacrificing your entertainment needs. Plus, the motorized lift makes it super easy to use with just the push of a button.

15. Camouflage with Wall-Mounted Art Panels

To camouflage your TV with wall-mounted art panels, start by selecting artwork or a design that fits your room’s style.

Install a set of hinged art panels on the wall, providing they are large enough to cover the entire TV. The panels should be attached to a sturdy frame with hinges that allow them to open and close easily.

Behind the panels, mount your flatscreen on the wall, making sure it is securely fixed and has access to power.

When you want to watch TV, simply swing the panels open to reveal a large black screen, and when you’re done, close the panels to display art in plain sight.

To make the process even easier, consider using a painting lift that allows the panels to move with the push of a button.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In this section, we answer common questions about how to hide a TV.

Where Should You Avoid Placing a TV?

Interior designers generally advise to avoid placing TVs on or above mantels. They are often too high for comfortable viewing and can create a large black spot, which can detract from a formal living room's architectural focal point.

Which Is Preferable, a TV Stand or a Wall Mount?

Wall-mounted television is excellent for aesthetics, space-saving, and safety. However, TV stands can offer more flexibility and ease of setup.

Your choice should depend on your room’s layout and style preferences.

How Can I Hide a TV in a Living Room With an Open Floor Plan?

In open-floor plan living rooms, consider incorporating the TV into a feature wall, a painted alcove, or a painted panel set within a larger wall.

You can also set your smart TV against a dark-painted wall and arrange artwork, lighting, and furniture around it to make it appear more integrated into the interior design.

Key Takeaways on How to Hide a TV: A Quick Guide

Hiding your TV doesn’t mean sacrificing style or convenience.

Options like a motorized lift, a retractable screen, or wall-mounted art panels let you maintain a sleek, uncluttered space while keeping your TV out of sight when not in use.

These solutions allow you to integrate modern technology without disrupting your home’s design.