House to Home with Debbie Travis

The television stands were even worse, as ugly as sin. Is it any wonder you never saw these in the beauty shots of decorating magazines?

Then came the flat screen TV, which at least looks modern in a contemporary setting. The narrow black frames and slender profile created new modes of stylish placement; the television could now be installed like a picture, with all the wires hidden discretely behind the wall. The advent of high definition and internet hookup offer viewers a world of entertainment. Apps such as Artkick transform internet connected TVs into interactive artframes, where you can display Claude Monet’s “Water Lily Pond” or “The Card Player” by Paul Cezanne in the comfort of your own home.

TVs are no longer ugly, unwieldy boxes, but one big challenge remained. Once the TV is wired up, then you are stuck. No moving the furniture around as it all still has to face the television. Until recently, that is. New on the market is something called Optik TV by Telus, which allows you to move your television to any place in any room that has a power outlet. The Optik comes with a small wireless digital box. Simply plug in the TV and connect it to the wireless box. I am quite technically challenged, but this new possibility solved all my furniture moving dilemmas. You can put the TV anywhere, over the mantelpiece, on a book case or even sitting on your dining room sideboard. When you donít want the TV to be the center of attention, it is easily moved and that spot can then be utilized for other functions or displays. And when you are setting up for a big crowd to watch the game, the seating plan can be configured with ease. I am so relieved that I can get back to moving my furniture around on a whim now without having to beg for assistance moving wires and boxes. It’s just like the old days, only better.