BLOG

Floating tv units have become one of the most sought-after furniture solutions in modern UK homes, and it is easy to see why. As living spaces evolve, homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to create clean lines, free up floor space, and achieve a contemporary look without sacrificing practicality. Floating tv units answer all of these needs, offering a sleek, wall-mounted alternative to traditional media furniture that fits perfectly with today’s lifestyles.

This in-depth guide is designed to help you fully understand floating tv units, how they work, why they are so popular in the UK, and how to choose the right one for your home. Whether you live in a compact city flat or a spacious family house, this article will walk you through everything you need to know, from design and sizing to installation, storage, cable management, and long-term maintenance.

Understanding what floating tv units are and why they matter

Floating tv units are wall-mounted furniture pieces designed to hold televisions, media equipment, and accessories without resting on the floor. By being fixed directly to the wall, they create a floating effect that instantly modernises a room. Unlike traditional tv stands, floating tv units give the illusion of more space, making rooms feel larger, lighter, and more organised.

In UK homes where space is often at a premium, particularly in new-build properties and city apartments, floating tv units provide a practical solution. They allow you to maximise floor area, making cleaning easier and giving you greater flexibility in how you arrange the rest of your furniture.

Why floating tv units are so popular in the UK

The popularity of floating tv units in the UK has grown steadily over the past decade. Several factors have contributed to this rise.

First, modern interior design trends favour minimalism and clean aesthetics. Floating tv units support this style by eliminating bulky legs, frames, and unnecessary visual clutter.

Second, UK homes increasingly feature wall-mounted televisions. Pairing a wall-mounted tv with a floating tv unit creates a cohesive look that feels intentional rather than improvised.

Third, practicality plays a major role. Floating tv units often include clever storage solutions and integrated cable management, helping homeowners keep living spaces tidy and organised.

Finally, energy-efficient homes with underfloor heating and open-plan layouts benefit from furniture that does not interrupt floor flow. Floating tv units work seamlessly in these environments.

The key benefits of floating tv units

Floating tv units offer a wide range of benefits that go beyond aesthetics.

One of the most obvious advantages is space-saving. By lifting the unit off the floor, you visually and physically free up room, which is especially beneficial in smaller living rooms.

Another benefit is ease of cleaning. With no legs or base touching the floor, vacuuming and mopping become much simpler, helping maintain a cleaner home with less effort.

Floating tv units also allow for customisable height placement. You can mount the unit at a height that suits your seating position, ensuring optimal viewing comfort while maintaining a balanced visual layout.

From a design perspective, floating tv units create a modern, streamlined appearance that complements contemporary interiors, from minimalist to Scandinavian and even industrial-inspired spaces.

Choosing the right size floating tv unit

Selecting the correct size floating tv unit is essential for both visual balance and functionality.

The width of the unit should typically be equal to or slightly wider than your television. This creates a grounded look that frames the screen rather than making it feel top-heavy. For example, a 55-inch tv often pairs well with a floating tv unit between 140cm and 180cm wide.

Depth is another important consideration. Most floating tv units are shallower than traditional stands, usually between 30cm and 45cm deep. This helps maintain a sleek profile while still offering enough space for media devices.

Height is largely determined by personal preference and wall space. Many homeowners choose a low-profile floating tv unit that sits beneath the tv, but taller configurations can work well when additional storage is required.

Matching floating tv units to your living room layout

Your living room layout plays a significant role in determining the best floating tv unit for your space.

In open-plan homes, floating tv units can help define the entertainment area without adding visual bulk. A long, low unit can anchor the tv wall while keeping the space open and airy.

For smaller or narrow living rooms, compact floating tv units with streamlined designs prevent the room from feeling overcrowded. Opting for lighter colours can further enhance the sense of space.

In larger living rooms, wider floating tv units with multiple storage compartments can balance expansive walls and create a focal point that feels intentional and proportionate.

Materials commonly used in floating tv units

The materials used in floating tv units influence both their appearance and durability.

Engineered wood is a popular choice due to its stability and smooth finish. It offers a modern look and is well-suited to contemporary interiors.

Solid wood options provide warmth and character, making them ideal for homes that blend modern and traditional styles. Wood finishes can range from light tones to darker, richer hues depending on your décor.

High-gloss finishes are often chosen for ultra-modern spaces. They reflect light and create a striking visual impact, although they may require more frequent cleaning to maintain their appearance.

Matt finishes, on the other hand, offer a subtle, sophisticated look and are excellent for reducing glare and fingerprints.

Storage options within floating tv units

One of the most practical aspects of floating tv units is their built-in storage.

Many designs include cupboards, drawers, or open shelving to accommodate media players, game consoles, routers, and accessories. Choosing the right combination depends on your needs.

Closed storage helps maintain a clean, uncluttered look, hiding cables and devices from view. This is ideal for minimalist interiors.

Open shelves provide easy access to frequently used equipment and allow for better airflow around electronic devices.

Some floating tv units combine both options, offering the best of practicality and aesthetics.

Cable management and floating tv units

Effective cable management is essential for achieving the clean look floating tv units are known for.

Most modern floating tv units include pre-drilled cable holes or hidden channels that allow wires to be routed discreetly behind the unit. This prevents cables from hanging visibly and reduces clutter.

When planning your installation, it is important to consider the placement of wall sockets and tv connections. Aligning these with the cable management features of your floating tv unit will result in a more polished finish.

Installation considerations for floating tv units

Installing floating tv units requires careful planning and attention to detail.

The wall type is one of the most important factors. Solid masonry walls provide excellent support, while plasterboard walls may require specialist fixings or additional reinforcement.

Weight capacity should always be checked. Floating tv units are designed to support a certain load, including the unit itself and any items placed inside.

Professional installation is often recommended, especially for larger units, to ensure safety and longevity. Correct installation ensures the unit remains level and securely fixed over time.

Floating tv units and wall-mounted televisions

Floating tv units pair naturally with wall-mounted televisions, creating a cohesive entertainment setup.

When positioning the tv above the unit, it is important to maintain comfortable viewing height. The centre of the screen should generally be at eye level when seated.

Leaving sufficient space between the tv and the floating tv unit allows for ventilation and visual balance. This gap also provides room for soundbars or decorative elements if desired.

Design styles and floating tv units

Floating tv units are available in a wide range of design styles to suit different tastes.

Minimalist designs focus on clean lines, neutral colours, and handle-less fronts. These units blend seamlessly into modern interiors.

Scandinavian-inspired floating tv units often feature light wood tones and simple forms, adding warmth without visual heaviness.

Industrial-style units may incorporate darker finishes and bold shapes, creating a striking focal point.

Classic-modern designs combine traditional materials with contemporary forms, making them versatile for a variety of UK homes.

Floating tv units in smaller UK homes

In smaller UK homes, floating tv units can be particularly transformative.

By removing the need for floor-standing furniture, they create a sense of openness that makes rooms feel larger. Choosing a slim profile and lighter colour enhances this effect.

Multi-functional floating tv units with integrated storage help reduce the need for additional furniture, keeping the space organised and efficient.

Floating tv units in family homes

For family homes, durability and storage are key considerations.

Floating tv units with sturdy construction and ample internal storage can accommodate toys, games, and media equipment while keeping them out of sight.

Soft-close drawers and cupboards add a layer of practicality, reducing noise and wear over time.

Maintenance and care for floating tv units

Proper maintenance ensures your floating tv unit remains in excellent condition.

Regular dusting and gentle cleaning help preserve the finish. Using appropriate cleaning products for the specific material is essential.

Avoid overloading the unit beyond its recommended capacity, as this can compromise its structural integrity.

Periodically checking fixings ensures the unit remains securely mounted over time.

Long-term value of floating tv units

Floating tv units are not just a design trend; they offer long-term value for homeowners.

Their timeless aesthetic means they adapt well to changing décor styles. Their practical benefits, such as space-saving and organisation, continue to be relevant as living needs evolve.

In many cases, floating tv units can enhance the overall appeal of a living space, contributing positively to the feel and functionality of the home.

Common mistakes to avoid when choosing floating tv units

One common mistake is selecting a unit that is too small for the television, resulting in an unbalanced appearance.

Another is overlooking wall compatibility and installation requirements, which can lead to safety issues.

Ignoring cable management options can also undermine the clean look floating tv units are designed to provide.

Planning carefully and considering both aesthetics and practicality helps avoid these pitfalls.

Future trends in floating tv units

As home design continues to evolve, floating tv units are expected to become even more refined.

Future designs are likely to incorporate smarter storage solutions, improved materials, and enhanced adaptability for changing technology.

Sustainability may also play a larger role, with an emphasis on durable construction and long-lasting design.

Conclusion: why floating tv units are a smart choice for UK homes

Floating tv units offer a perfect balance of style, practicality, and space efficiency, making them an ideal choice for modern UK homes. Their ability to transform a living room, enhance organisation, and support contemporary lifestyles has made them a lasting favourite rather than a passing trend.

By choosing the right size, material, and design, and ensuring proper installation, floating tv units can provide years of functional and visual enjoyment. Whether you are redesigning your living room or simply upgrading your entertainment setup, floating tv units represent a smart, modern solution that meets the needs of today’s homes while looking effortlessly stylish.