It's fine while the TV is off - but as soon as you connect the console, laptop, speaker and chargers, the living room becomes a mini server room. You don't need a perfect "Pinterest" apartment, but a few tricks so that the cables are not the first thing you see when you enter the space.

1. Start with one power “base”

Instead of five extension cords going in all directions, make one base:

• Get a quality extension cord with surge protection and enough outlets.
• Position it behind the TV stand or table - so that it is accessible, but not visible.
• You can hook up all your main devices to it: TV, console, speaker, lamp, laptop charger.

The fewer "random" sources of electricity, the less chaos.

2. Cables don't run "as they please", but through corridors

In order for the space to seem calm, the cables must have their own route:

• It uses cable channels (plastic that sticks to the wall or shelf).
• For shorter lengths – simple Velcro straps or rubber bands.
• Roll up the excess length of cables and secure them at the back – not under the table, where they will always get caught on the legs.

3. "Dock zone" for phones and small devices

The most visual noise is made by a bunch of chargers and cables sticking out of sockets. The solution is one small, clearly defined zone:

• Also make a small "dock": a shelf, tray or box where all the chargers are.
• Use a multi-USB adapter instead of five separate chargers.
• Place it in a place that feels natural to you (by the entrance, next to the sofa, on your desk) – but not in the middle of the table.

4. Lighting that calms, does not add chaos

Instead of an aggressive overhead light and one lamp, try layers of lighting:

• One main lamp or ceiling light with a warm light bulb (2700–3000K).
• At least one floor or standing lamp in the corner – for an evening mood.
• Discreet LED strip behind the TV or shelf, to soften the contrast of the screen.

Suddenly the space looks like a rest area, and not like an office with fluorescent lights.

5. The "one in, one out" rule

Whenever you add a new device or lamp, ask yourself: what can go wrong ?

• If you buy a new speaker – the old one goes into another room, you give it away or sell it.
• Old chargers and cables that you don't use - move to one "technique" box or go outside.

You don't have to have a perfect "smart home." It's enough that your cables and devices aren't screaming from every corner – and that the space looks peaceful even when everything is turned on.