Theaters solved this problem by having all three front speakers behind a perforated screen. We can’t be so lucky.
For home it is OK to put the side speakers at the TV level and have the center sit above or below it.
Things to consider: Ideally, tilt the center channel so it points towards the listeners. The other is that room correction is especially beneficial for the center channel since it is usually in a sub-optimal location, like in an entertainment center.
Best,
E