BLOG

The television has become a natural focal point in many British living rooms, but the furniture surrounding it can have just as much impact on how the room looks and functions. Traditional TV stands certainly have their place, but homeowners increasingly want cleaner lines, better use of floor space and a more contemporary finish. This is where floating TV units have become such a popular choice.

Floating TV units are wall-mounted storage units designed to sit above the floor rather than resting on legs or a conventional base. The result is a streamlined entertainment area that can provide practical storage while creating the impression of a larger, less cluttered room.

From compact flats and modern apartments to family homes and large open-plan living spaces, floating TV units can work in an impressive variety of interiors. They can provide somewhere to organise media equipment, games consoles, accessories, cables and everyday living room essentials without introducing a bulky piece of furniture at floor level.

However, choosing the right floating TV unit requires more thought than simply finding a design that looks attractive. Width, depth, storage capacity, wall construction, installation height, cable management, colour and room proportions can all affect the finished result.

This detailed UK guide explains what to consider before choosing floating TV units, how to select the correct size and style, where to position them and how to create a practical entertainment area that looks carefully planned rather than simply assembled around a television.

What Are Floating TV Units?

Floating TV units are storage cabinets or media units that are securely fixed to a wall, leaving visible floor space underneath.

Unlike conventional TV stands, which transfer their weight directly to the floor through a base or legs, floating TV units rely on suitable wall fixings and secure installation. When installed correctly, they create a distinctive suspended appearance.

Depending on the design, a floating TV unit may include cupboards, drawers, open shelving, drop-down compartments or a combination of different storage areas.

Some households position the television directly above the unit on a separate wall bracket. Others use the floating cabinet primarily as storage beneath a television positioned elsewhere.

One of the main attractions is visual simplicity. Removing furniture legs and keeping the floor underneath visible can make the television area appear cleaner and more spacious.

This is particularly useful in modern British homes where efficient use of living room space is increasingly important.

Why Are Floating TV Units So Popular in UK Homes?

The popularity of floating TV units is closely connected to changing interior design preferences.

Modern living rooms increasingly favour uncluttered layouts, integrated storage and furniture that makes rooms feel open rather than crowded. Large televisions have also become commonplace, meaning the entertainment wall itself often becomes one of the dominant visual features of the room.

A carefully selected floating TV unit helps balance the television while providing useful storage underneath it.

There are several practical reasons behind their popularity.

They Keep Valuable Floor Space Visible

Because floating TV units are mounted above floor level, the flooring continues underneath the furniture.

This uninterrupted floor area can create a stronger sense of space.

The effect can be particularly valuable in small living rooms, flats, apartments and narrow rooms where traditional furniture may make the available space feel more restricted.

They Create a Contemporary Appearance

The absence of visible legs gives floating TV units their characteristic minimalist appearance.

Clean horizontal lines work particularly well with wall-mounted televisions and modern interior schemes.

A floating unit can therefore help transform a television from something simply placed in the room into part of a deliberately designed feature wall.

They Can Provide Hidden Storage

Minimalist interiors still require storage.

Remote controls, controllers, cables, chargers, games, media devices and other accessories can quickly make an entertainment area look untidy.

Floating TV units with enclosed cupboards or drawers allow these items to be stored away while maintaining a clean exterior.

Cleaning Underneath Is Easier

Traditional television furniture can create awkward spaces underneath and around the legs where dust collects.

A floating unit leaves the floor more accessible, making routine vacuuming, sweeping and mopping easier.

It can also make the area more convenient for robot vacuum cleaners.

Floating TV Units for Small Living Rooms

Floating TV units can be especially effective when space is limited.

A traditional floor-standing television cabinet occupies both physical and visual floor space. Even when the cabinet itself is relatively shallow, its contact with the floor can make it feel substantial.

A wall-mounted alternative changes that perception.

By exposing more flooring, floating furniture can make a compact living room appear less crowded.

For smaller UK living rooms, consider choosing a floating TV unit with a relatively shallow depth. The unit should provide enough storage for the items you genuinely need without projecting unnecessarily far into the room.

It is also worth thinking vertically.

If floor space is limited, combining a floating TV unit with wall-mounted shelving or carefully positioned storage above the television can make better use of the available wall.

Avoid overfilling the wall, however. One of the biggest benefits of floating TV units is the visual breathing space they create.

How to Choose the Right Size Floating TV Unit

Size is one of the most important considerations when choosing floating TV units.

The unit needs to work with the dimensions of the television, the available wall and the proportions of the room.

Before ordering, measure the installation area carefully.

Record the available wall width, the position of electrical sockets, the location of radiators and any nearby doors, windows, alcoves or architectural features.

Matching the Unit Width to Your Television

In many interiors, a floating TV unit looks most balanced when it is wider than the television positioned above it.

For example, placing a very large television above a noticeably narrow cabinet can make the arrangement look top-heavy.

A wider unit creates a stronger horizontal foundation underneath the screen.

There is no universal ratio because the correct proportions depend on the room and design. However, considering the television and cabinet together rather than as separate purchases usually produces a more coherent result.

Consider the Overall Wall Width

The television is not the only measurement that matters.

A large floating TV unit may look excellent on a broad uninterrupted wall but overwhelming in a narrow room.

Likewise, an undersized cabinet can appear lost on a particularly large feature wall.

Try to leave deliberate negative space around the arrangement. Furniture does not need to fill every available centimetre.

Check the Depth

Depth is particularly important in smaller rooms.

A shallower floating TV unit can provide useful storage without projecting too far into the living area.

Before choosing, check whether the internal dimensions are suitable for any equipment you intend to store.

Remember that cables and plugs may require additional clearance behind electronic devices.

Choosing the Correct Height for Floating TV Units

One of the advantages of wall-mounted furniture is that you have greater control over installation height.

However, this also means the position needs to be planned carefully.

There is no single correct height for every floating TV unit because sofas, televisions, viewing distances and room layouts vary.

The relationship between the television and your natural seated eye level should generally take priority.

Once you have established a comfortable television position, the floating TV unit can be positioned underneath with sufficient space between the two.

The gap should look intentional rather than cramped.

Before drilling into the wall, temporarily mark the proposed television and cabinet positions using removable tape. Sit in your normal viewing position and assess the proportions from across the room.

This simple step can prevent expensive positioning mistakes.

Wall-Mounted TV and Floating TV Unit Combinations

One of the most popular ways to use floating TV units is underneath a wall-mounted television.

The combination works because both elements share the same visual language: neither requires traditional floor-standing furniture.

A wall-mounted TV positioned above a floating cabinet can create an exceptionally clean entertainment area.

The success of the arrangement depends heavily on alignment.

You might centre the television directly over the cabinet, particularly in symmetrical rooms. Alternatively, an intentionally offset layout can work in contemporary interiors when combined with shelving, lighting or decorative accessories.

The important distinction is between deliberate asymmetry and accidental misalignment.

Floating TV Units and Cable Management

Few things undermine a carefully designed entertainment wall faster than a collection of visible cables.

Cable management should therefore be considered before installing floating TV units rather than afterwards.

Think about every device that may require power or connectivity, including:

• television
• games console
• streaming device
• sound system
• router or networking equipment
• lighting
• chargers
• media players

Some cables may be concealed behind the television, inside suitable trunking or within professionally installed cable routes.

If cables are being routed inside a wall, appropriate electrical and building safety requirements should always be followed.

Also check whether the floating TV unit itself includes cable openings or accessible rear sections.

Planning cable routes before installation can make an enormous difference to the finished appearance.

Storage Options in Floating TV Units

Not all floating TV units provide the same type of storage.

Your ideal configuration depends on what needs to be stored.

Cupboard Storage

Enclosed cupboards are useful when maintaining a minimalist appearance is the priority.

They can conceal items that do not need to remain visible, such as spare cables, manuals, controllers and accessories.

Drawer Storage

Drawers provide easy access to smaller items.

They can be particularly useful for remote controls, charging cables, batteries and gaming accessories.

Open Compartments

Open shelving can provide convenient access to electronic equipment.

However, open compartments require more regular organisation because their contents remain visible.

Ventilation should also be considered when placing electronic devices inside or around enclosed furniture.

Combination Storage

For many households, a combination of open and enclosed storage provides the most practical arrangement.

Frequently used equipment can remain accessible while visual clutter is hidden behind doors or inside drawers.

White Floating TV Units

White floating TV units are particularly versatile.

Their light finish can work effectively in smaller living rooms because white furniture tends to feel visually lighter than darker alternatives.

White can also blend naturally with pale walls, creating a subtle integrated appearance.

Alternatively, a white floating TV unit against a darker feature wall can create strong contrast.

White works well with Scandinavian-inspired interiors, minimalist spaces and contemporary neutral colour schemes.

Black Floating TV Units

Black floating TV units can create a more dramatic entertainment area.

They work particularly well with black televisions because the screen and furniture can appear visually connected.

Against a light wall, a black unit creates a strong architectural contrast. Against a dark feature wall, it can contribute to a sophisticated, integrated media-wall appearance.

Consider the amount of natural light available. In very small or dark rooms, large quantities of black furniture can make the space feel heavier, so balancing darker finishes with lighter surrounding elements may be beneficial.

Grey Floating TV Units

Grey floating TV units provide a useful middle ground between white and black.

Grey can work with a wide variety of wall colours, flooring styles and interior schemes.

Lighter greys can contribute to an airy contemporary appearance, while darker charcoal finishes create greater contrast and visual weight.

Grey is particularly useful for homeowners who want neutral furniture without choosing either bright white or deep black.

Wood-Effect Floating TV Units

Wood-effect floating TV units can introduce warmth into an otherwise minimalist entertainment area.

Oak-inspired and other natural-looking finishes can complement wooden flooring, neutral walls and soft furnishings.

They can also prevent a contemporary room from feeling overly clinical.

Wood effects can be combined successfully with white, grey or black elements, allowing the entertainment area to connect with other furniture throughout the room.

Gloss or Matt Floating TV Units?

Finish can significantly influence the character of floating TV units.

Gloss surfaces reflect light and can create a crisp, contemporary appearance. They can be particularly effective in modern rooms where polished finishes are already present.

However, reflective surfaces may show fingerprints and marks more readily.

Matt finishes tend to produce a softer, more understated appearance. They can work particularly well in minimalist, Scandinavian and modern industrial interiors.

Neither finish is universally better. The right option depends on the surrounding décor and how much maintenance you are prepared to undertake.

Floating TV Units for Media Walls

Media walls have become an increasingly prominent feature in UK interiors.

A media wall typically brings the television and surrounding design elements together into a single coordinated area.

Floating TV units can form the lower section of this arrangement.

Depending on the room, they may be combined with shelving, decorative wall panels, lighting or additional storage.

The key to an effective media wall is restraint.

It can be tempting to add numerous features around the television, but too many competing elements can make the wall appear busy.

A well-proportioned floating TV unit gives the design a strong horizontal anchor while allowing the television to remain the focal point.

Can Floating TV Units Be Installed on Plasterboard Walls?

This is an important question because many modern UK properties use plasterboard construction internally.

The answer depends on the wall construction, the weight of the unit, the intended load and the fixing method.

Floating furniture transfers significant forces into the wall. Simply using inappropriate fixings in plasterboard may not provide sufficient support.

Ideally, mounting points should correspond with suitable structural support such as studs or appropriately reinforced areas.

Different walls require different fixings, and load ratings must be respected.

If you are uncertain about the construction of the wall or its ability to support the furniture, seek advice from a competent installer before proceeding.

A floating cabinet is not an item where mounting security should be treated casually.

Installing Floating TV Units on Solid Walls

Solid masonry walls can provide a strong mounting surface when suitable fixings are used correctly.

However, wall materials still vary.

Brick, block and other masonry construction can require different drilling and fixing techniques.

The condition of the wall also matters.

Before installation, check for hidden electrical cables, water pipes and other services.

Accurate levelling is equally important. Because floating TV units create long horizontal lines, even a relatively small installation error can become visually obvious.

Floating TV Units for Gaming Setups

Floating TV units can be highly effective for gaming areas.

Modern consoles, controllers, charging accessories and related equipment can generate considerable clutter around a television.

A suitable floating unit provides dedicated storage while maintaining a streamlined appearance.

When storing consoles, ventilation is essential.

Electronic devices generate heat and should not be placed in unsuitable enclosed spaces without adequate airflow.

Check compartment dimensions carefully before purchasing. Games consoles and other devices vary considerably in size, and additional space may be required for plugs and cables.

Floating TV Units for Large TVs

Large televisions require particularly careful furniture selection.

The larger the screen, the more dominant it becomes within the room.

Choosing a floating TV unit with sufficient width can help visually balance the television.

Very narrow furniture underneath a large screen may make the arrangement feel disproportionately top-heavy.

Long floating TV units can be particularly effective beneath larger televisions because their horizontal proportions create a deliberate visual base.

The television should still be installed independently according to its own mounting requirements where wall mounting is intended.

Long Floating TV Units for Wide Living Rooms

Large rooms and open-plan spaces can accommodate longer floating TV units particularly well.

A long cabinet can emphasise the width of a feature wall while providing significantly more storage.

In a broad room, a short television cabinet may appear visually disconnected from the surrounding architecture.

A longer unit can help establish the entertainment area as a defined zone.

Before choosing an extra-wide unit, make sure its scale complements other furniture rather than overpowering it.

Floating TV Units in Open-Plan Living Spaces

Open-plan interiors present different design challenges because the television area may be visible from several parts of the room.

Floating TV units can help define the entertainment zone without adding the visual bulk of large floor-standing furniture.

For a cohesive appearance, consider repeating materials or colours already present elsewhere.

A wood-effect unit might connect visually with dining furniture, while black or grey finishes could echo kitchen fittings, lighting or architectural details.

This repetition helps the TV area feel integrated into the wider space.

How to Style Floating TV Units Without Creating Clutter

Floating TV units usually look best when styling is relatively restrained.

The purpose of floating furniture is often to create a clean appearance, so covering every available surface with accessories can undermine the effect.

A few carefully chosen items may be sufficient.

Small plants, books, decorative objects or subtle lighting can soften the appearance of electronic equipment.

Consider differences in height and shape when arranging accessories rather than placing numerous similarly sized objects in a straight row.

Most importantly, leave empty space.

Negative space is an important part of contemporary interior design.

Lighting Around Floating TV Units

Lighting can significantly change the appearance of an entertainment wall.

Soft ambient lighting behind a television or beneath a floating cabinet can create depth and make the furniture appear even more suspended.

However, lighting should remain comfortable when watching television.

Very bright or poorly positioned lights can create distracting reflections.

Warm, subtle lighting is often more suitable for relaxing living spaces, although the ideal choice depends on the room's existing lighting scheme.

Any electrical installation should be planned safely and appropriately.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Floating TV Units

Several avoidable mistakes can reduce the effectiveness of an otherwise attractive installation.

Choosing a unit that is too small for the television is one of the most common. Always consider the proportions of the complete entertainment wall.

Ignoring internal storage dimensions is another. A cabinet may look spacious externally but still be unsuitable for particular devices.

Failing to plan cables can leave wires hanging between the television, cabinet and sockets.

Installing the unit before confirming the final television height can result in uncomfortable spacing.

Most importantly, never underestimate mounting requirements. The visual appeal of floating TV units depends on secure installation.

How to Measure for Floating TV Units

Accurate measurements can prevent many purchasing problems.

Start by measuring the full width of the available wall.

Next, record the television width rather than relying only on its advertised screen size.

Measure the proposed cabinet width and use removable tape to mark it on the wall.

Then check the cabinet depth against the available floor space.

Consider nearby doors, walkways, radiators and furniture.

Check socket locations and determine where cables will run.

Finally, consider the installation height and whether doors or drawers will have sufficient clearance to open comfortably.

Taking ten minutes to map the complete installation can save considerable inconvenience later.

Are Floating TV Units Suitable for Family Homes?

Yes, provided the unit is appropriately selected and securely installed.

The absence of furniture legs can make the floor underneath easier to clean, while enclosed storage can help keep accessories organised.

Families may benefit from choosing designs with generous cupboard or drawer space.

Installation security is particularly important in households with children. Furniture and televisions should always be mounted according to appropriate safety requirements and manufacturer instructions.

Avoid assuming that wall-mounted automatically means childproof.

Creating a Minimalist Living Room With Floating TV Units

Floating TV units naturally complement minimalist interiors because they reduce visual interruption at floor level.

To maximise the effect, focus on consistency.

Keep cables hidden where practical. Avoid excessive accessories. Choose a finish that works with the walls and flooring. Use storage compartments to keep smaller items out of sight.

A minimalist entertainment area does not necessarily mean an empty one.

The objective is to make every visible element appear intentional.

Choosing Floating TV Units for Modern UK Interiors

The best floating TV units combine three qualities: suitable proportions, useful storage and an appearance that complements the room.

Avoid choosing solely by colour or photographs.

Check dimensions carefully.

Think about what will actually be stored inside.

Consider the size of the television and the width of the wall.

Plan cable routes before installation.

Check that the wall is suitable for the required mounting method.

Consider how the unit will look from your normal seating position rather than only when standing directly in front of it.

These practical details can make the difference between a floating TV unit that simply fits and one that genuinely improves the room.

Why Floating TV Units Can Transform an Entertainment Area

One of the strongest qualities of floating TV units is their ability to combine storage with visual simplicity.

They provide a practical place for everyday entertainment equipment while preserving visible floor space and creating cleaner architectural lines.

For smaller rooms, this can make the space feel less crowded.

For larger rooms, long floating TV units can provide the visual scale required to balance a large television.

For contemporary interiors, they can become the foundation of a complete media wall.

The key is thoughtful planning.

When dimensions, wall construction, storage requirements, installation height and cable management are considered together, floating TV units can create an entertainment area that feels integrated into the room rather than added as an afterthought.

FAQ SECTION

What are floating TV units?

Floating TV units are wall-mounted media cabinets that are installed above floor level. They can provide storage for entertainment equipment and accessories while creating a clean, contemporary appearance.

Are floating TV units suitable for small living rooms?

Yes. Floating TV units can be particularly effective in small living rooms because they keep the floor underneath visible. This can help make a compact room feel more open and less cluttered.

Should a floating TV unit be wider than the TV?

In many room layouts, a floating TV unit that is wider than the television creates a balanced appearance. However, the ideal width depends on the size of the wall, television and surrounding furniture.

How high should floating TV units be mounted?

There is no universal installation height. The correct position depends on the television height, sofa height, viewing position and overall room layout. Plan the television viewing height first and position the unit appropriately underneath.

Can floating TV units be fitted to plasterboard?

Potentially, but the correct installation method depends on the wall construction, cabinet weight and intended load. Suitable structural support and appropriate fixings are essential. Professional installation may be advisable if you are unsure.

Can floating TV units hold games consoles?

Many can, provided the internal dimensions are suitable. Ensure that consoles and other electronics have adequate ventilation and sufficient space for cables and connectors.

Are floating TV units good for cable management?

They can be. A well-planned floating TV setup can conceal much of the cabling associated with televisions and media equipment. Cable routes should ideally be planned before installation.

What colour floating TV unit is best?

The best colour depends on the room. White floating TV units can create a light, spacious appearance, black units offer stronger contrast, grey provides a versatile neutral option and wood-effect finishes can introduce warmth.

Are floating TV units suitable for large TVs?

Yes. For large televisions, choosing a sufficiently wide floating TV unit can help create better visual proportions. The television and cabinet should be considered together as part of the complete entertainment wall.

Are long floating TV units better for large rooms?

Long floating TV units can work particularly well in large or open-plan rooms because they create a strong horizontal feature and provide additional storage. The size should still remain proportional to the available wall.

Can floating TV units be used as part of a media wall?

Yes. Floating TV units are frequently used as the lower storage element of contemporary media walls and can be combined with wall-mounted televisions, shelving, panels and ambient lighting.

Do floating TV units make a room look bigger?

They can create the impression of additional space because more flooring remains visible underneath the furniture. This uninterrupted floor area can make the room feel less crowded.

Are floating TV units easy to clean around?

Generally, yes. Because the floor underneath remains accessible, vacuuming, sweeping or mopping can be easier than with some traditional floor-standing cabinets.

What should I check before buying floating TV units?

Check the external width, height and depth, internal storage dimensions, wall construction, mounting requirements, television dimensions, socket locations, cable routes and available installation space.

How deep should a floating TV unit be?

The ideal depth depends on the room and what you intend to store. Shallow floating TV units can be useful in smaller spaces, while deeper cabinets may provide more storage. Always check internal dimensions if electronic equipment will be placed inside.

Can you put a soundbar on a floating TV unit?

Potentially, provided there is sufficient surface space and the unit is designed to support the intended load. Alternatively, some soundbars can be mounted separately. Always follow the relevant installation guidance.

Do floating TV units need to be centred under the television?

No. Centred layouts create a symmetrical appearance, but deliberately offset designs can also work effectively. The important thing is that the overall composition looks intentional and balanced.

Are floating TV units suitable for modern apartments?

Yes. Their relatively streamlined appearance and efficient use of floor space make floating TV units particularly suitable for many modern flats and apartments.

What style of floating TV unit works with a minimalist living room?

Simple units with clean lines, discreet handles or handleless doors and restrained colours tend to complement minimalist interiors. Enclosed storage is particularly useful because it helps keep visible clutter to a minimum.

How can I make floating TV units look more expensive?

Careful installation, concealed cables, balanced proportions and restrained styling can significantly improve the finished appearance. Coordinating the unit with surrounding colours, lighting and materials can also create a more considered result.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Floating TV Units for Your Home

Floating TV units offer an effective combination of contemporary design, practical storage and efficient use of living room space.

By mounting storage above floor level, they create cleaner visual lines and leave more flooring visible. This can be particularly beneficial in smaller UK homes, although the same design principle works equally well across large living rooms and open-plan interiors.

The most successful installation begins with accurate planning.

Measure the wall carefully. Consider the width and position of the television. Check the depth and internal dimensions of the cabinet. Decide what needs to be stored. Plan cables and electrical connections before installation, and make sure the wall and fixing method are suitable for the required load.

Colour and finish can then be chosen according to the wider interior. White can create a lighter effect, black can establish strong contrast, grey offers versatility and wood-effect floating TV units can bring warmth to a contemporary room.

Ultimately, the right floating TV units should do more than provide somewhere to store television accessories. They should help organise the entertainment area, complement the proportions of the room and contribute to a cleaner, more cohesive living space.

Whether you are redesigning a compact lounge, planning a modern media wall or simply replacing bulky floor-standing furniture, carefully selected floating TV units can provide a practical foundation for a stylish and functional entertainment area.