The Upper East Side has more prewar co-ops than almost anywhere in the city. Along Park, Lexington and the side streets of Carnegie Hill, Lenox Hill and Yorkville, living rooms have tall windows, parquet floors and deep moldings. A media wall here should look as if the building's architect drew it.
01Paneled, painted and quiet
Most Upper East Side clients choose a painted media wall: raised or flat panels, a cornice that meets the existing crown, and bookcases either side of the screen. A darker panel directly behind the TV helps the screen disappear when it's off.
02Radiators and window walls
Many living rooms have radiators under the windows, and the TV wall is often between two windows. A long base cabinet with ventilated radiator covers ties the wall together and hides cables.
03Board approval
Co-op boards usually want drawings, an insurance certificate and set work hours, even for built-ins. Electrical changes for a recessed outlet behind the TV typically need a licensed electrician and may go into the alteration agreement.
04Finishes that suit prewar rooms
- Painted panels in soft whites or deep greens. - Walnut or rift oak for a library-like media room. - Unlacquered brass or polished nickel hardware.
05Sizing in a long, narrow living room
Upper East Side living rooms are often long rather than deep. Measure the sofa distance carefully; our guide to TV height covers the numbers.
See Manhattan media walls, try the Media Wall Worx designer, or book a free design visit anywhere on the Upper East Side.