There’s nothing quite like a spacious rec room, lounge or at-home bar to watch the big game or binge your favorite television show. They’re easy to set up, and designs run the gamut with everything from mirrors and brass to sports jersey and keepsake glassware to pool tables and arcade games filling the space.
Deep down, however, all you really need to enjoy the action or soak up the scripted drama is a well-placed TV and ample seating for the gang to sit, eat and watch. In some cases, a cozy spot for two might be all that’s needed.
Want ideas for your new setup? We at NJ HOME flipped through our archives and found some of our favorite rooms for a viewing party:
The great room in this Demarest home is both relaxed and chic thanks to Abby Gruman of Tenafly-based Abby Leigh Designs. The television is mounted on a fireplace decked out in a marble tile surround by Artistic Tile, in perfect view from the ottomans customized with fabric from Elitis. “We wanted a patterned, funky fabric that would pop,” Gruman says.
The game of the year might be on the wall-mounted TV in this Franklin Lakes great room, designed by Z+ Architects and Interiors, but the soaring floor-to-ceiling provide plenty of light and a can’t-miss view of the outdoor.
The owners of this Bay Head home often catch a show before they retire for the night, but they also appreciate seeing the sunrise from bed. A custom media cabinet, designed by Beth Insabella Walsh of Insabella Design, keeps the TV under wraps until its showtime.
Designer Yelena Gerts of House of Style & Design transformed a Holmdel family room wall into mini focal points of interest (the TV’s not the only star!) by using materials such as marble, granite, exotic woods and textured wallpaper.
To entice family members to use the seldom-used finished basement of their Westfield home, Judy Sturdevant of Freeman Hall Design encouraged the homeowners to lighten things up with brighter color choices, comfy pieces, whimsical art and, of course, a viewer-friendly television.
Comfort was key when designer Pam Cooper of Cooper Interiors did the first-floor family room of this Passaic County home. A custom-designed bookcase frames the TV, and a stone wall serves as the centerpiece of the space.
This Kinnelon home’s modern kitchen is designed for a family that loves to entertain. Designer Sharon Sherman of Thyme & Place Design says they wanted a place where they can host all of the family and friends—and never miss a second of what’s on TV!
Do you have a beautiful TV setup in your home? Share your photos and tag us on Instagram @njhomemag.