Bathroom Design
So You Want a Bathroom Television
Whether you want to wash with soap operas or primp with prime time, these guidelines for installing a TV in the bathroom can help
I’ll get this out of the way first: I’ve always had a hard time understanding the appeal of TVs in bathrooms. Unlike the kitchen, which is usually the hub of household life, or a den where family and guests gather, a bathroom seems to me as though it should be a private retreat and a haven from the outside world (temporarily, at least).
But let’s say you do want a television in your bath — perhaps you enjoy its background noise while you prepare for bed, or you like to get a jump on the day’s headlines as you primp in the mornings. It’s not quite as simple as mounting a flat screen on the living room wall; you’ll need to factor in a few special considerations. Here’s what to keep in mind.
But let’s say you do want a television in your bath — perhaps you enjoy its background noise while you prepare for bed, or you like to get a jump on the day’s headlines as you primp in the mornings. It’s not quite as simple as mounting a flat screen on the living room wall; you’ll need to factor in a few special considerations. Here’s what to keep in mind.
Disguise it as an architectural element. Your TV will look less obtrusive if you create a visual parallel with another feature in the room. In this case, the thick black frame around the TV matches that of the fireplace surround.
Choose a waterproof version. In a bath, especially one used every day, your TV will be subject to moisture buildup and damage over time. Select one that's rated for bathroom or outdoor use, meaning it can withstand wet environments. Also, some models have built-in fog resistance, which comes in handy if you like really long, steamy showers.
Decide where you want it. Are you hoping to catch the nightly news while you take your makeup off, or settle in for a movie marathon with a tub of suds and a glass of wine? Your lifestyle will dictate where you position the TV for optimum use. If you want to be able to see it from multiple points, choose a wall-mounted model that swings or place the TV on a swiveling shelf.
Take advantage of technology. A number of companies now offer TV screens embedded within bathroom mirrors that completely disappear as soon as you press the off button. This is a terrific option for small bathrooms or minimalist spaces in which a TV might look awkward.
Incorporate transparent materials. Glass shower walls and dividers allow you to view the screen even when you’re not right next to it.
Keep it portable. You may change your mind and find that having a TV in the bathroom is more of a nuisance than a boon, or you may wish to move it depending on how your bathroom habits change. Perch it on top of a freestanding shelf unit to give you maximum flexibility.
Do you have a TV in your bathroom? Dish on why you love it in the Comments!
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Do you have a TV in your bathroom? Dish on why you love it in the Comments!
More:
Magic Mirrors Emerge From Fairy Tales
TVs in the Bedroom: Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down?