If you’re looking for ways to level up your outdoor entertaining… An outdoor TV may be exactly what your backyard is missing.
Just picture it…
You can kick back in your outdoor space on a beautiful summer night, breathe in the fresh air, and watch your favorite show under the stars.
Could it get any better?
We don’t think so.
But before you can transform your backyard into a true outdoor entertainment oasis… Some outdoor TV ideas are in order!
And this article is brimming with stunning TV setups and helpful ideas to spark your imagination.
So sit back, relax, and let the creative inspiration take hold.
QUICK LINKS:
How To Set Yourself Up For a Stunning Outdoor TV Space
Before we delve into the design ideas… Let’s first get the show started with some helpful tips and tricks for planning your perfect outdoor TV setup.
How Will Your TV Fit Into Your Space?
Before your outdoor TV area can start to take shape… You’ll need to know exactly how a TV will mesh with your outdoor patio design.
Think of your current backyard layout. Do you have a large retaining wall or feature wall that’s calling for attention?
If so, a wall mounted outdoor TV may be the perfect addition to that blank space!
This is a great way to get a TV outside, without cutting into precious patio real estate.
But… What if you don’t have ample wall area to work with?
Well, don’t worry! Wall-mounted TVs aren’t your only option.
Outdoor TV stands or cabinets are another great way to factor in a display al fresco… Without the need for a wall mount.
And if you’re striving for more of a discreet look… A TV lift cabinet may be a top contender!
These hide your TV from view when not in use… And can even double as outdoor storage.
If you do opt for a TV stand or cabinet… Just don’t forget to save sufficient patio space.
The last thing you’d want to do is crowd your outdoor entertainment center with a bulky TV cabinet.
Still struggling to visualize your outdoor living space with TV?
When in doubt, consider your current interior design setup. How does your indoor TV complement your living room?
Your preferences for your indoor space should translate to your back patio… So if you like your inside entertainment center, why not replicate it outdoors?
pair your outdoor tv with an outdoor kitchen
Your Screen Size Should Be Just Right
Next, don’t forget that size matters for your outdoor TV.
While it’s fun to toy with the idea of a huge projector screen… The truth is that bigger isn’t always better.
If you’re working with a small backyard… It’s safe to say that you don’t want to overwhelm your entertaining space with a larger-than-life TV.
And conversely, no one wants to squint to see a tiny TV across an expansive back patio.
Point is, your TV should be large enough to see the screen… But not so large that it obstructs your area.
And while we’re on the topic of seeing the screen…
Your Outdoor TV Should Be Easy To See (That’s The Whole Point!)
When it comes to seeing your TV screen… Size is only one factor to keep in mind.
The positioning and angle of your TV also significantly contribute to a comfortable viewing experience!
You and your guests should be able to sit back and relax to catch a show, without having to crane your necks… Which means you’ll want to confirm that your TV is at an optimal angle for viewing.
If you’re struggling to position your TV just right… A swivel outdoor TV mount will make achieving the perfect angle easier.
But when it comes to angles… There’s another element to contend with.
The sun.
While certain outdoor TVs are designed for full-sun-viewing… Others may cast a nasty glare as the sun traverses the horizon.
So, keep this in mind as you brainstorm outdoor patio TV ideas.
So your screen time isn’t cut short by the blazing mid-afternoon sun… Either position your TV out of direct sunlight, or opt for a model with a screen bright enough to rival those rays!
Ensure Your TV Is Shielded — Rain Or Shine
When you have an outdoor TV… The sun isn’t the only thing that may mess with movie time.
You’ll also want to ensure that your TV is shielded from the harsher outdoor elements!
There are a few ways to confirm that your TV has what it takes to hold up outdoors.
First, look for TVs that are rated for outdoor use.
These heavy duty displays will be able to withstand extreme temps… As well as hold up to water, wind, dust, and grime.
And if you want to go a step further with your weatherproof TV… An outdoor TV enclosure is a wise investment.
These will provide yet another layer of protection, for peace of mind that your TV will continue to function properly.
While this may not be the most creative outdoor TV idea… We have to say, it’s one that you certainly don’t want to overlook!
But now, with these considerations top of mind… Are you ready to look at some outdoor TV design ideas?
8 Outstanding Outdoor TV Ideas, For The Ideal Backyard Entertainment Center
An outdoor TV will be the star of your entertainment setup… So how can you give it the spotlight it deserves?
Let’s get straight to the point with these striking outdoor TV ideas for your new display!
1. Keep Your Outdoor TV Under Cover
In our eyes, the simplest way to take your outdoor TV setup to the next level is by placing it under cover.
While this homeowner went for a full coverage, gazebo-style roof…
You may prefer a pergola or awning for your backyard patio! (Or a different type of outdoor roof altogether.)
Truly, the covered outdoor TV setup ideas are endless.
And with a roof over your back patio… Your outdoor space will start to feel more like an extension of your indoor living room.
Not only will a covered patio create a cozy outdoor television nook…
It’ll also provide a sheltered spot from the outdoor elements!
And if you have a full roof keeping your space under cover… A rainy day will no longer keep you cooped up indoors.
Plus, your outdoor furniture will stay safe and sound, regardless of the weather…
Not to mention, those pesky UV rays will be a thing of the past as you bask in the cool shade cast by your outdoor roof.
2. Illuminate Movie Night By Adding Lights to Your Outdoor Living Space
If you’re planning to spend time in your outdoor TV room well after the sun’s gone down… Why not light up the area?
For an outdoor TV seating area under cover… String lighting, recessed lighting, or other outdoor lighting fixtures are an undeniably tasteful touch for enhancing your space.
Not only will illuminating your outdoor living room with TV add some ambience…
It’ll also make it easier to maneuver around your deck or patio in the dark of night.
All around, it’s a safe and stylish idea for your outdoor TV setup!
3. Add The Right Furniture & Accessories to Your Outdoor Living Room, For More Enjoyable TV-Time
Now, lighting isn’t the only way to amp up your outdoor entertainment space.
Far from it!
Adding the right furniture and accessories to your design will also work wonders for your outdoor living room.
At the very least… Armchairs, a sofa, and coffee or side tables are great ideas for outdoor TV setups. These components will certainly make your deck or patio feel more homey… And you’ll be able to sit comfortably as you watch TV in the fresh air.
But if you truly want to go all out with your patio or deck outdoor TV ideas… Why stop with the basics?
Add heating with a fire pit or outdoor fireplace nearby your TV…
Add a pop of personality with home decor or a splash of greenery…
And while you’re accessorizing… Why not consider factoring some speakers into your outdoor TV space?
This outdoor TV idea alone will take your back patio from a simple entertainment area to a full-on home theater!
4. Pair Your Outdoor TV With a Kitchen Design
Want another way to get the most from your outdoor TV design?
We’d suggest pairing it with an outdoor kitchen!
This outdoor TV alongside a stylish kitchen area is a great example of what’s possible.
Your guests can sit comfortably and enjoy a show or game as they graze on snacks (or even a full meal)!
And even if you’re cooking the day away at your grill island… You’ll never miss out on a must-see moment or showstopping sports game.
All in all… There’s no better way to make your outdoor TV design more interactive!
grill & chill while you watch TV
5. Watch Your Favorite TV Show from Your Outdoor Refreshment Center
For a true home bar experience… It doesn’t get much better than this!
An outdoor TV with a grill station is one thing… But when you pair a TV with both a grill and a bar island, it’s the best of both worlds.
The food can keep on coming… The drinks never have to stop flowing… And you’ll never have to pause your show to go inside. Doesn’t that sound great?
This modern outdoor TV area idea in particular really puts the possibilities on display.
Bar seating overlooks a modern outdoor TV wall… Suspended just above a full-fledged outdoor refreshment center.
With a refrigerator, sink, and even a kegerator with fresh brews on tap… There’s a lot to love about this outdoor patio with TV idea!
6. Place Your Outdoor TV Above Your Kitchen Bar
Here’s yet another example of how to factor an outdoor TV into a kitchen design. (Can you tell we’re a big fan of this particular outdoor TV idea?)
This outdoor TV deck idea is jam-packed with comfy conveniences.
Off to one corner, you can sneak a peek of an outdoor couch…
To the other side, a full dining set gives guests a place to gather…
But that’s not all! You can also enjoy drinks under the umbrella-covered bar seating area.
And the best part? The strategically placed TV will be clearly visible, no matter where you’re seated.
Though this is more of an open-air outdoor TV room idea, there’s still plenty of coverage for comfortable outside entertainment.
Color us impressed!
7. Small Dining Area and Outdoor TV Wall Idea
We’ve displayed a few grand-scale outdoor TV ideas… But what if you’re working with a smaller space?
For a simpler, smaller outdoor TV design… Conserve some room on your patio with an outdoor TV mount!
As this homeowner did… You may even have enough room left over to fit a dining table and chairs.
Or, you may even have the space for a small summer kitchen!
Functional, streamlined, and stylish… This small, modern outdoor TV mounting idea proves you don’t need to go big to make the most of your backyard.
The Best Idea For Your Outdoor TV Area
Alright. We’ve covered some key considerations, and scoped out a few stunning outdoor TV patio ideas.
And as you can see… The options for sprucing up your outdoor entertainment center are virtually endless!
When it’s time to fashion up your own TV design, you’ll have no shortage of ideas to work with.
But if we could be so bold… We’d say there’s one creative idea that you certainly don’t want to skip.
And that’s pairing your new outdoor TV with a kitchen or bar island!
Allow us to tell you why an outdoor TV and kitchen area is the absolute best idea.
First things first, a party isn’t a party without food… Plain and simple!
And there’s a good chance that you’ll be gathering with guests to watch a game or host a movie night with your new outdoor TV.
So, wouldn’t it just make sense to have an outdoor kitchen nearby your TV?
You won’t have to run inside time and time again to keep the snacks, meals, or drinks on deck… Because an outdoor kitchen will create an all-in-one entertainment center!
You saw some possibilities in the examples above, but allow us to refresh your memory…
As you whip up the menu for your parties, you won’t have to worry about missing out on the action…. Because your built-in grill will be within viewing distance of your outdoor TV!
And when the cooking’s said and done… A kegerator, sink, and fridge can create a functional outdoor bar, to keep cold beverages at the ready.
And last but not least… An outdoor kitchen bar is by far the best place to watch a game, with a drink in hand!
A BBQ station is truly the best way to add convenience and functionality to your backyard… For an all-around interactive outdoor TV area!
Curious about how a kitchen will fit in your backyard design?
Try out our free online design tool for a free 3D visual!
And if you decide an outdoor kitchen is right for you… We’ll be in touch!
Looking for More Guidance?
FAQ
With the right outdoor TV enclosure, a regular TV technically can be used outdoors. That said, it’s not something we’d recommend.
Your best bet will be opting for an outdoor rated TV. These are heavy duty displays, designed to hold up to the harsher outdoor elements and more extreme temperature changes.
The best place to put an outdoor TV depends on your unique backyard design.
Generally speaking, you’ll want your TV to be positioned at an angle that allows for comfortable viewing, without eye strain.
Popular TV placement options for patio designs include wall-mounted TVs, outdoor TV stands, or TV lift cabinets.
Outdoor TVs are a fantastic option for those who want to add a backyard entertainment center to their home.
They encourage more time spent outdoors, in the fresh air… And may allow you to spend more time in the company of friends or loved ones.
