Big Makeover for Small Living Room

Wide range of electronic options fit nicely into a narrow room.

Dec. 16, 2008 — by .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

This room was in complete electronics disrepair before the Techorator took over the design. As part of a relationship with LG Electronics, Doug Wilson, TLC’s famous interior designer, was able to transform the cramped, unruly space (see image below) into a sensational living space that the whole family could enjoy.

The first order of business was selecting the right type of gear. “We wanted to capitalize on bit of space that was available,” says Wilson. And with just 250 square feet to work with, a flat-screen TV was the obvious space-saving choice. Wilson replaced the small unit that was wedged into a bookcase with a sleek 40-inch model. He chose to hang the LG set over the fireplace mantle to preserve valuable floor space, and the old bookcase was removed from the space.

Rather than let the TV overtake the wall, Wilson flanked the screen with simple black-and-white artwork. “The art balances out the room and provides a focal point when the TV is off,” he explains. The cream colored wall behind the set was painted a warm taupe to help the frame blend in better with its surroundings.

For the spot where the bookshelf once stood, Wilson designed a sleek stainless steel-topped table for the family’s computing needs. The family was concerned about keeping their kids safe on the Internet so keeping computers in the main living area was important. Even though the computers are out in the open, the clean, modern lines of the desk make them look like a natural part of the room design.

The desk also provides a hiding spot for two speakers and the audio and video component. To make the gear easy to get to, Wilson stowed it in a console that can be pulled out from underneath the desk.

Hiding the wiring was a little more difficult. “It’s an older house which made it difficult to fish wire,” says Wilson. The brick wall above the fireplace only complicated matters. “We did our best to hide all the wire,” says Wilson. Even if the owners do catch a peek of the cabling occasionally, they’re not complaining. “Before, nobody wanted to even stay in the room,” says Wilson. “Now it’s the family’s favorite place to hang out.”

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