Have you ever wanted to watch your favorite cooking show in your kitchen instead of on the sofa? You could try out the techniques those super-chefs demonstrate with all the utensils, ingredients and appliances you need in arm’s reach. Or, maybe you like to hang out at the breakfast bar with your friends instead of watching sports in the living room with the guys. Install a TV in the kitchen and you can choose whatever entertainment you want.

TV Lifts Save Space in your Kitchen

With counter top space at a premium, you will want your TV monitor tucked out of sight when not in use. This will also protect it from the occasional cooking accident that ends up with oil spatters or mashed potatoes on the walls. You have several choices for hiding your flat panel plasma TV.

Drop Down TV Lift

A rising TV lift can be incorporated into your center island. This is the best location if you want to install a large screen. The surface of your island will still be flush so it can be used as a workspace. The hinged section of marble, granite, wood, or laminate concealing your TV will simply open up with the press of a button from your remote control. A scissor or telescoping lift brings the monitor into view.

Drop down “lifts” operate in the opposite direction. You can mount this kind in the ceiling or have it drop down to counter level from inside a kitchen cabinet. These are a great solution for smaller screens. Here are some extra tips for making the right choice:

• Always choose a lift that is designed for the size and weight of your plasma screen
• Measure the inside dimensions of your island or cabinet twice before purchasing your TV and lift
• Avoid buying a lift that has plastic parts – these will break easily
• Have your lift professionally installed to preserve your warranty

Related posts:

1. Choosing a Kitchen Island – Fixed or Mobile?
2. Quick Kitchen Upgrade: Faucet Options
3. Maximize Pantry Space in Your Kitchen
4. Adding a Wet Bar to Your Kitchen
5. Design your dream kitchen

Tags: Kitchens

This entry was posted on Monday, February 22nd, 2010 at 7:52 pm and is filed under Kitchens. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.