AT:HT Reader Jan writes to us: I recently downsized from a very large 1-bedroom in the outer boroughs to a small Jr. 1 in Manhattan. Coming with me: My obnoxiously big 42" tube TV, which was even too large for the previous space (thank my ex) but is too new (and was too expensive) for me to ditch just yet.
I was planning on hiding it and the components in a lovely armoir--like, say, the Room and Board Mondo Armoire. I don't otherwise have any large storage units in the room (except the built-in cabinets under the window). But now I am beginning to wonder whether that will just make the room even more crowded and cramped, and whether I shouldn't just leave the TV out, on a media unit.
What do you think? Furniture rearranging tips also welcome. I have tried the sofa where the orange chair is, to separate the living space from the dining space, but it felt too clunky there--like it bisected the room TOO much.
How new is that monster? The time to resell electronics on CL is before they're obsolete, so if you hate it, sell it sooner rather than later.
Also, compare the cost of your desired media unit to the cost of a TV that doesn't demand so much of you and whatever would hold it up... you may break even or come out ahead on a swap. Investing more in this TV just seems like investing more in a relationship that's already over...
view wende in phoenix's profile
Wende's got a good point. (If you haven't already) you should see if you can sell the monster for close to what you would pay for a TV that actually fits.
If you can't, I agree that a giant armoire would really overwhelm the room.
view jennifer in sf's profile
I too have a big beast like yours, and I'm not getting rid of it. I paid for it and it works. I think you can get a little low storage unit and keep it where it is. Hang something nice above the tv to open up the area and bring the focus away from the tv.
I would also move the brown couch to where the red chair is, pull it back a couple of feet, move the red chair into the corner and get a nice little coffee table and a couple of tall lamps. I'm sure once the blinds are open and the sun is coming it looks more spacious.
view Sisero's profile
Thanks everyone! I think I just needed to confirm what my gut was already telling me. I may get an inexpensive low unit as a stopgap until I can figure out the cost effectiveness of selling the thing.
And yes, it does look more spacious when the blinds are open--faces east and gets lots of light. I just got the photo bug at nearly midnight the other night and snapped away! (Also, there's no overhead lighting except for the chandelier--I need to buy floor lamps...)
view janbrady's profile