since I posted my question I have been online getting ideas and the jist seems to be we should not consider placing a tv over a fireplace. The heat is not good for the electronics. Sounds like you do it all the time though??? Maybe I will send a picture since I really want to do this but we are re-thinking placing it over the fireplace.

Check with the fireplace manufacturer.

triciac73, an option you may want to consider is TVCoverUps. Framed Art(including your own) or Mirror adds to the room's decor, with the hidden TV and Entertainment Consoles beneath. See how EASY it really is: http://youtu.be/05bwMqaAS5Y

... I would consider the TV more important as my family spends more time watching it then it would a fireplace. So, I would insist that the TV is put in a place where it is the best position and height for viewing, aesthetics would be second consideration. And yes, I agree, the seating has to also be arranged with the same purpose in mind. Sure, a separate “home theatre and/or “family room” would be ideal, but we don’t all have the finances for that. Besides, I think the “good room” where only visitors are allowed, is rather old fashioned, don’t you think? I do have swivel chairs, so that I can turn towards the TV or the person I am conversing with (be it a family member or a visitor) and I do like a nice room, but AFAIC the first requirement is that the room be comfortable for the purpose I use it for most often, all other requirements come after that. I suppose if I had a fireplace and I couldn’t put the TV on the opposite wall, then I would attempt to hide it somehow, being fully aware that 90% of the time it would not be hidden. The one thing I am sure of is that it would not be put above the fire place and not because it would be considered gauche by some (I really wouldn’t care about that) but because I don’t want a sore neck, nor would I want to shorten the TVs life because of heat and smoke damage. Sorry @Ad-Notam Miami I hate your “solution”. Mirror or no mirror, the TV is still too high AND you have the couch side on, so not only do you have to look up but turn your head as well. Unless you get rid of the rest of the family and lay down on the couch. Then it may (just) work And @NEWLook Finishes by Crystal. You are right of course. A room, about to be photographed for some magazine, should NOT have the TV as a focal point. However a room that people USE every day mostly to watch TV… I just LOVE (not) your photo of the East Lake Shore Drive Residence, where the couch faces AWAY from the TV. Are you serious? Why even bother installing a TV? @ stryker I do have progressive bifocals, my TV is 45cm from the floor, and I am very comfortable thank you. I do have arthritis in my neck and would hate having to look up