How To Style An Outdoor Tv So It Doesn't Cramp Your Space

Warmer weather is the perfect excuse for spending more time outdoors. As relaxing as your outdoor oasis is on its own, there's something about having a TV available for relaxing in the warm night air, watching your favorite television shows or movies under the night sky. Whether it's an intense drama or the newest reality TV show, being able to enjoy it all in the comfort of your outdoor space is a fantastic way to enhance your summer evenings. But what is the best way to style an outdoor TV so it doesn't cramp your space? While there are many options for this project, the top two ways to incorporate a screen are to feature it in your outdoor lounge and to have a portable option for more flexibility.

Of course, you'll want to create some privacy in your outdoor space with budget-friendly solutions so you can enjoy your favorite shows in total comfort and seclusion. This can include using curtains or planting tall shrubs to maintain your privacy (and noise control). You might also factor in existing features, like a hedge or fence, that provide built-in privacy when choosing a spot for your TV. Any way you include it, whether in front of a pool or tucked away on your deck, having an outdoor TV completely transforms your backyard hosting space.

Whether you already have an outdoor lounge or will be transforming your backyard into a party space, a backyard gathering area is an ideal spot for adding a TV outdoors to elevate the experience and extend your home's entertainment options. You already have the space for adequate seating, and if the lounge area is covered, you can easily keep the TV protected from the elements. Ideal spots include a dedicated enclosure, like a gazebo or covered deck. A covered patio or deck attached to your house often creates more protection between the roof and the exterior wall, allowing you to keep the TV set back from potential rain and sunlight. To be on the very safe side, choose a weather-proof outdoor TV that can withstand exposure to rain, extreme temperatures, and UV rays without damage.

Depending on the space you have available, you could go all-out with your outdoor lounge and have an outdoor fireplace installed. Hanging the TV over the fireplace creates a centralized focal point, much like an indoor living room. It could also extend the outdoor viewing season by adding warmth to your outdoor TV lounge area. Much like you do in your indoor space, you can consider a swivel wall mount anchored to your home's exterior wall so that everyone can have the best view of the TV. The arm also allows you to push the TV against the wall when it's not in use to save space. No matter how you anchor the TV, make sure the size is adequate to provide a clear picture without overwhelming the space.

Having a portable TV setup is perfect for smaller backyard areas and for those who want ultimate flexibility. These setups are typically quick to assemble and dismantle and require minimal tools to do so, which makes them incredibly convenient for spontaneous viewing parties or quiet evenings outdoors.

One option is to keep the screen easily accessible on a wheeled TV stand so you can move it around your patio or out onto the lawn for impromptu viewing parties with friends and neighbors. When not in use, the mobile TV stand (with the TV, of course) can roll indoors, either in your home or in a pool house or shed, preferably close to the patio. This makes it simple to roll out when the mood to watch your screen under the stars hits. Or, if you live in particularly nice weather, you can have a dedicated TV stand on your covered patio to hold your television, and move it indoors during a bad weather spell. What makes this option nice is that there are plenty of ways to decorate a TV stand to blend seamlessly with your outdoor decor by using plants or lanterns.

Another portable option is to use an outdoor screen and projector. This option works well if you only screen movies and shows outdoors occasionally. You can set up the screen and projector before the viewing, and take it down to store away in a shed or storage area when it's not in use to avoid cramping your outdoor entertaining space.