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The television has become one of the main focal points of the modern British living room, but the furniture surrounding it can have just as much impact on the overall appearance of the space. Traditional TV stands still have their place, but more homeowners are choosing wall mounted tv units to create a cleaner, more contemporary and better organised entertainment area.

By lifting storage away from the floor, wall mounted tv units can completely change the proportions of a room. They create an uncluttered appearance, provide practical storage for everyday entertainment equipment and make it easier to achieve the streamlined floating furniture style that has become increasingly popular across UK interiors.

They can work particularly well in smaller living rooms, apartments and modern open-plan spaces where every centimetre matters. However, their appeal is not limited to compact homes. A large floating TV unit can create an impressive feature wall in a spacious lounge, while a minimalist wall mounted design can provide discreet storage without competing with other furniture.

Choosing the right unit involves more than simply finding a design you like. Width, height, storage configuration, wall construction, cable management, television size and the proportions of the room all need consideration.

This guide explores everything you need to know about wall mounted tv units, from their practical advantages and sizing to installation, styling, storage and choosing the right design for your living room.

What Are Wall Mounted TV Units?

Wall mounted tv units are storage units designed to be fixed directly to a wall rather than supported by traditional furniture legs or sitting on the floor.

They are sometimes described as floating TV units because the mounting system is usually concealed, creating the appearance that the cabinet is floating against the wall.

Depending on the design, a wall mounted TV unit may include:

• Cupboards for concealed storage
• Open compartments for media equipment
• Drawers for accessories
• Shelving for decorative items
• Cable access points
• Drop-down doors
• Push-to-open compartments

Some designs are extremely minimalist, consisting of a long horizontal cabinet underneath a wall mounted television. Others are more substantial and can form part of a complete TV feature wall.

The main difference between wall mounted tv units and conventional TV stands is that the furniture itself is attached to the wall. This leaves the floor beneath the cabinet visible and creates a distinctive floating effect.

Why Are Wall Mounted TV Units So Popular in UK Homes?

Interior design has increasingly moved towards cleaner layouts, concealed storage and furniture that makes rooms feel more spacious.

Wall mounted tv units fit naturally into this approach.

Modern televisions have also become considerably thinner. Once a television is mounted close to the wall, placing a bulky floor-standing cabinet underneath it can sometimes make the entertainment area appear visually unbalanced.

A floating unit complements the slim profile of a modern television.

The popularity of open-plan living has also influenced furniture choices. In spaces where the kitchen, dining area and living room are visible simultaneously, homeowners often want entertainment furniture that feels integrated into the wider interior rather than dominating it.

Wall mounted furniture can provide that balance.

The Main Benefits of Wall Mounted TV Units

There are several practical and aesthetic reasons why wall mounted tv units have become a popular alternative to conventional television furniture.

They Create More Visible Floor Space

One of the biggest advantages is the additional visible floor area.

The amount of physical space gained may not be enormous, but being able to see the flooring underneath the furniture can make a room appear significantly larger.

This is particularly useful in:

• Small UK living rooms
• Apartments
• Flats
• Bedrooms
• Narrow lounges
• Open-plan living areas

Creating uninterrupted sightlines across the floor reduces visual clutter and can make the entire room feel more open.

They Provide Useful Hidden Storage

A minimalist living room still needs somewhere to store everyday items.

Remote controls, controllers, cables, streaming equipment, instruction manuals and other accessories can quickly make a TV area look untidy.

Wall mounted tv units with cupboards or drawers allow these items to be stored out of sight.

The result is a cleaner entertainment area without sacrificing practical storage.

Cleaning Underneath Is Easier

Furniture legs and floor-level cabinets can create awkward spaces where dust collects.

With a floating TV unit, the floor underneath remains accessible.

Vacuum cleaners, mops and many robotic vacuum cleaners can move underneath the cabinet without furniture needing to be shifted.

For busy households, this simple practical advantage can make a noticeable difference.

They Create a Modern Appearance

The floating effect immediately gives the TV area a contemporary appearance.

Clean horizontal lines can complement modern televisions particularly well, helping the television and furniture appear like a deliberately designed feature rather than two unrelated objects.

Installation Height Can Be Customised

Unlike conventional furniture, which has a predetermined height, wall mounted tv units provide greater flexibility.

Within the limitations of the wall and mounting system, the cabinet can be positioned at a height that works with your television and seating arrangement.

This makes it possible to create more balanced proportions.

Wall Mounted TV Units for Small Living Rooms

Wall mounted tv units for small living rooms can be especially effective because they provide storage without occupying as much visual space as conventional furniture.

In a compact lounge, heavy furniture can make the room feel crowded.

A floating design leaves more flooring visible and reduces the amount of furniture touching the floor.

Choosing the right dimensions is important.

For smaller rooms, consider units with:

• A relatively shallow depth
• Clean horizontal lines
• Concealed storage
• Minimal handles
• Simple fronts
• Neutral or natural finishes

A shallow wall mounted TV cabinet can provide enough room for everyday entertainment accessories while keeping the walkway through the room comfortable.

Choosing the Correct Width for a Wall Mounted TV Unit

Width is one of the most important considerations when choosing wall mounted tv units.

A cabinet that is too narrow can look undersized beneath a large television, while an excessively wide cabinet may overwhelm a small wall.

As a general design principle, many people prefer the TV unit to be wider than the television itself.

For example, if your television measures approximately 120cm across, a cabinet around 150cm to 180cm wide may create more balanced proportions, depending on the available wall space.

However, there is no universal rule.

Consider the entire wall rather than only the television.

Measure:

1. The total available wall width.
2. The width of the television.
3. The proposed width of the TV unit.
4. Nearby doors, radiators and furniture.
5. The clearance required around the cabinet.

Marking the proposed dimensions onto the wall with low-tack masking tape can help you visualise the final proportions before purchasing.

What Height Should a Wall Mounted TV Unit Be?

The correct height depends on the position of the television, seating height and overall design.

The television should usually remain the priority because comfortable viewing is more important than positioning the cabinet at a particular height.

Once the television position has been established, the floating cabinet can be positioned underneath it with sufficient visual and practical clearance.

Avoid placing the cabinet so close to the television that the arrangement appears cramped.

Equally, an excessive gap can make the two elements look disconnected.

There should be enough separation to create a clear distinction between the screen and furniture while maintaining a cohesive entertainment zone.

Wall Mounted TV Units With Storage

Storage requirements vary considerably between households.

Before choosing a unit, think about what actually needs to go inside it.

You may need space for:

• Remote controls
• Games controllers
• Streaming devices
• Media players
• Internet equipment
• Cables
• Batteries
• Instruction manuals
• Small electronic accessories
• DVDs or games

Wall mounted tv units with storage can hide these items while maintaining a clean exterior.

If you have several electronic devices, check the internal dimensions carefully. A cabinet may look large externally but have limited usable internal space because of shelves, hinges or structural panels.

Ventilation is another important consideration.

Electronic equipment can generate heat, so devices should not be tightly enclosed unless the cabinet provides appropriate airflow.

Wall Mounted TV Units With Doors or Open Shelves?

Both configurations have advantages.

Closed storage provides the cleanest appearance because equipment and accessories can be hidden completely.

Open shelves provide easier access and can offer improved ventilation for electronic devices.

Many households benefit from a combination of both.

For example, frequently used media equipment can occupy an open section while cables, controllers and accessories are stored behind doors.

Think about your daily routine rather than choosing solely on appearance.

A beautiful unit that makes frequently used equipment difficult to access may become frustrating over time.

Cable Management for Wall Mounted TV Units

Poor cable management can undermine an otherwise impressive TV installation.

A wall mounted television with visible wires hanging towards the cabinet rarely achieves the clean floating effect most homeowners want.

Planning cable routes before installation is therefore essential.

Possible solutions include:

• Internal wall cable routes where appropriate
• Surface-mounted cable covers
• Cable channels
• Rear cable openings
• Cable management boxes
• Strategically positioned sockets

The best approach depends on the wall construction and electrical layout.

Never run mains cables inside walls in an unsafe or non-compliant manner. Where electrical work or concealed wiring is required, professional advice may be appropriate.

The objective should be to make cables accessible enough for maintenance while keeping them visually discreet.

Wall Mounted TV Units for Feature Walls

A floating cabinet can become the foundation of an entire TV feature wall.

Instead of treating the television as an isolated object, the wall can be designed as one complete composition.

Popular approaches include combining wall mounted tv units with:

• Decorative wall panels
• Slatted wall features
• Textured finishes
• Accent lighting
• Shelving
• Display cabinets
• Neutral feature colours

The horizontal line created by a long floating cabinet can provide a visual anchor for the television.

The key is restraint.

Too many decorative features around a television can make the wall appear busy and distract from the clean aesthetic that makes floating furniture attractive in the first place.

Modern Wall Mounted TV Units

Modern wall mounted tv units generally favour simple shapes and uncluttered surfaces.

Typical characteristics include:

• Handleless doors
• Push-to-open mechanisms
• Long horizontal proportions
• Minimal detailing
• Concealed hinges
• Integrated storage

A modern design does not necessarily mean choosing an ultra-glossy finish.

Matt surfaces, wood effects and textured finishes can all create contemporary results depending on the surrounding décor.

The best choice is one that complements the wider room rather than following a trend in isolation.

White Wall Mounted TV Units

White wall mounted tv units are particularly useful when you want furniture to appear light and unobtrusive.

Against a white or pale wall, the cabinet can visually blend into its surroundings, allowing the television or decorative features to become the primary focal point.

White can work particularly well in:

• Smaller living rooms
• Scandinavian-inspired interiors
• Minimalist spaces
• Contemporary apartments
• Bright open-plan rooms

Because lighter furniture reflects more light than very dark finishes, it can also contribute to a brighter overall appearance.

Black Wall Mounted TV Units

Black wall mounted tv units create a stronger and more dramatic look.

They can work particularly well with modern televisions because the dark cabinet visually connects with the screen when the television is switched off.

Black units can complement:

• Industrial interiors
• Monochrome colour schemes
• Dark feature walls
• Contemporary living rooms
• Modern media rooms

In smaller spaces, consider balancing a black cabinet with lighter walls or flooring to prevent the entertainment area from appearing too heavy.

Grey Wall Mounted TV Units

Grey offers a versatile middle ground between white and black.

It can provide definition against pale walls without creating the visual weight associated with very dark furniture.

Grey wall mounted tv units can work particularly well with neutral interiors, concrete-effect surfaces, metallic accessories and contemporary colour palettes.

Different shades create very different results. Pale grey can feel soft and understated, while charcoal grey produces a stronger architectural appearance.

Wood Effect Wall Mounted TV Units

Wood effect wall mounted tv units introduce warmth into contemporary interiors.

This can be particularly useful where a completely white, black or grey entertainment area would otherwise feel too clinical.

Oak-style finishes are commonly paired with neutral walls, soft furnishings and natural textures.

Wood effects can also help floating furniture work within homes that combine traditional and modern elements.

The floating structure provides the contemporary aspect while the wood appearance introduces a more familiar furniture aesthetic.

Gloss vs Matt Wall Mounted TV Units

The finish can significantly affect the character of the room.

Gloss surfaces reflect light and can create a sleek, polished appearance. They can be effective in modern interiors, particularly when combined with minimalist décor.

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

Matt finishes generally create a softer appearance and may be easier to integrate with a wider range of interiors.

When deciding between gloss and matt wall mounted tv units, consider:

• Natural light levels
• Existing furniture
• Wall colours
• Cleaning preferences
• The overall style of the room

There is no universally superior finish. The correct choice depends on the environment.

How to Measure Before Buying Wall Mounted TV Units

Accurate measurements are essential.

Begin by measuring the wall itself.

Record the width and height of the usable area and identify obstacles including:

• Electrical sockets
• Light switches
• Radiators
• Door openings
• Skirting boards
• Existing shelves
• Heating controls

Next, measure the television.

Do not rely solely on the advertised screen size because television sizes are measured diagonally. You need the actual external width and height.

Then determine the desired cabinet width and depth.

Depth is especially important in smaller rooms. Even a difference of several centimetres can affect walkways and how spacious the room feels.

Finally, check whether doors and drawers will have enough clearance to open fully.

Can Wall Mounted TV Units Be Installed on Any Wall?

Not necessarily.

Wall construction is extremely important because the unit must safely support its own weight plus anything stored inside it.

Common UK wall types include masonry walls and plasterboard walls.

The correct mounting method depends on the wall construction, cabinet weight, load requirements and fixing system.

Never assume that standard screws or basic wall plugs are sufficient.

A heavy cabinet incorrectly mounted to a wall could detach and cause serious damage or injury.

If you are uncertain about the wall structure or appropriate fixings, professional installation is the safest approach.

Wall Mounted TV Units on Plasterboard Walls

Installing wall mounted tv units on plasterboard requires particular care.

The plasterboard itself may not provide sufficient support for a heavy cabinet and its contents.

Depending on the construction, suitable structural support or specialist fixings may be required.

Wall studs can sometimes provide appropriate fixing points, but their location may not correspond conveniently with the cabinet mounting positions.

This is one situation where professional assessment can be worthwhile.

The final installation should be based on load capacity and wall structure rather than appearance alone.

How Much Weight Can a Wall Mounted TV Unit Hold?

There is no single answer.

Weight capacity depends on:

• The unit construction
• Mounting brackets
• Wall material
• Fixings
• Number of fixing points
• Installation quality

Always follow the installation and maximum load guidance supplied with the specific unit.

Avoid treating a floating cabinet like a floor-standing cupboard. Children should never be allowed to climb, sit or stand on wall mounted furniture.

Heavy objects should also not be added without confirming that the installation can safely support them.

Styling Wall Mounted TV Units

Once installed, a floating TV cabinet can be styled in many different ways.

The most effective approach is often minimalist.

Consider using a small number of carefully selected decorative objects rather than filling every available surface.

Possible additions include:

• Small plants
• Books
• Decorative bowls
• Sculptural objects
• Candles
• Minimal ornaments

Keep the television area visually balanced.

If the cabinet already contains contrasting colours, decorative panels and lighting, additional accessories may not be necessary.

Creating a Minimalist TV Area

Wall mounted tv units are particularly well suited to minimalist interiors.

The goal is not simply to own fewer things. It is to reduce unnecessary visual distractions.

Start by concealing cables.

Store accessories inside the cabinet.

Keep the top surface mostly clear.

Choose a finish that coordinates with the wall and surrounding furniture.

When the television, cabinet and wall work together, the entertainment area can become visually calmer and more sophisticated.

Are Wall Mounted TV Units Suitable for Bedrooms?

Yes.

Floating TV units can be particularly useful in bedrooms where floor space is limited.

A shallow cabinet provides somewhere to store television accessories without requiring a large piece of furniture.

The visible floor underneath can also help smaller bedrooms feel less crowded.

However, the same installation principles apply. Wall structure, fixing strength and cabinet load must all be considered.

Wall Mounted TV Units for Large TVs

Large televisions require careful furniture proportions.

A small cabinet underneath an oversized television can make the arrangement appear top-heavy.

Long wall mounted tv units can help visually anchor larger screens.

Rather than matching the exact width of the television, consider a cabinet that extends beyond each side of the screen.

This creates a stronger horizontal foundation and can make the entire installation feel more intentional.

The dimensions should still suit the wall and room.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Wall Mounted TV Units

One common mistake is buying based purely on appearance.

A unit may look perfect in a photograph but be unsuitable for your room dimensions or wall construction.

Another mistake is ignoring cable management until after installation.

Other common problems include:

• Choosing a cabinet that is too narrow
• Installing it too high
• Failing to check internal storage dimensions
• Overloading the cabinet
• Using unsuitable wall fixings
• Forgetting ventilation requirements
• Blocking electrical sockets
• Failing to allow clearance for doors

Planning these details beforehand can prevent expensive or inconvenient changes later.

Wall Mounted TV Units vs Traditional TV Stands

Traditional TV stands remain a practical option, particularly for households that do not want to drill into walls or need furniture that can easily be moved.

Wall mounted tv units offer different advantages.

They generally create a more streamlined appearance, free visible floor space and can integrate more naturally with wall mounted televisions.

Traditional TV stands may be easier to reposition, while floating units become a more permanent part of the room.

Your choice should therefore depend on your priorities.

If flexibility is most important, floor-standing furniture may be preferable.

If you want a clean, contemporary entertainment area with concealed storage, a wall mounted design may be more suitable.

Are Wall Mounted TV Units Worth It?

For many UK homes, wall mounted tv units provide an excellent combination of storage, style and efficient use of space.

Their biggest advantage is their ability to make the entertainment area feel integrated into the room.

Instead of a television sitting above a bulky piece of furniture, the screen and cabinet can become one coordinated feature.

They are particularly worthwhile when you value:

• A modern appearance
• Easy floor cleaning
• Concealed storage
• Visible floor space
• Flexible installation height
• Clean cable management
• A minimalist interior

The main consideration is installation.

Unlike a conventional TV stand, a floating cabinet relies completely on the wall and fixing system for support. Correct installation is therefore essential.

Choosing Wall Mounted TV Units for Your UK Home

The ideal unit should balance appearance with everyday practicality.

Before making your final decision, consider the size of your television, the width of the wall, storage requirements, wall construction and the style of your existing furniture.

Do not automatically choose the largest unit that will physically fit.

Instead, consider proportion.

A well-proportioned cabinet can make even a relatively modest entertainment area look carefully designed.

Think about how you actually use your television area as well.

If you have multiple devices, prioritise ventilation and accessible storage.

If your priority is a minimalist appearance, look for concealed compartments and effective cable management.

If the room is small, prioritise shallow depth and simple horizontal lines.

Wall mounted tv units can transform an ordinary television wall into a practical, organised and contemporary focal point. With careful measuring, appropriate installation and the right design, a floating TV unit can provide useful storage while making the entire living space feel cleaner, lighter and more considered.

FAQ SECTION

What are wall mounted TV units?

Wall mounted tv units are cabinets or storage units fixed directly to a wall rather than standing on the floor. They are often called floating TV units because the concealed mounting system creates the appearance that the furniture is floating.

Are wall mounted TV units suitable for small living rooms?

Yes. Wall mounted tv units can be particularly effective in small living rooms because leaving the floor visible underneath the furniture can make the room feel more spacious. Shallow units can also reduce the amount of floor area visually occupied by the entertainment zone.

Should a wall mounted TV unit be wider than the TV?

It often looks more balanced when the cabinet is wider than the television, although this is a design preference rather than a strict rule. The available wall width and overall proportions of the room should also be considered.

How high should wall mounted TV units be installed?

There is no universal installation height. The correct position depends on television height, seating position, cabinet dimensions and personal preference. The television should be positioned for comfortable viewing first, with the cabinet arranged underneath it.

Can wall mounted TV units be fitted to plasterboard?

They can potentially be fitted to plasterboard walls, but appropriate structural support and fixings are essential. The correct method depends on the wall construction and the weight of the cabinet and its contents. Professional advice should be sought where there is any uncertainty.

Do wall mounted TV units hide cables?

Some wall mounted tv units include cable access openings or internal cable management features. Additional cable channels or concealed routes may be needed to completely hide wires between a wall mounted television and the cabinet.

Are wall mounted TV units strong?

A correctly manufactured and properly installed unit can support its specified load. Strength depends on the cabinet, brackets, wall construction, fixings and quality of installation. Manufacturer load limits should always be followed.

What colour wall mounted TV unit makes a room look bigger?

White, pale grey and lighter wood-effect finishes can help create a brighter, more open appearance, particularly when coordinated with pale walls. However, cabinet dimensions, depth and overall room layout can have an even greater effect on perceived space.

Are black wall mounted TV units suitable for small rooms?

Yes. Black wall mounted tv units can work in small rooms, particularly when contrasted with lighter walls and flooring. Choosing a streamlined, shallow design can prevent the furniture from visually dominating the space.

Are wall mounted TV units easy to clean around?

One of their main practical advantages is easy access to the floor underneath. Because there are usually no furniture legs touching the floor, vacuuming and mopping around the entertainment area can be simpler.

Can you put a large TV above a floating TV unit?

Yes, provided both the television and cabinet are independently and safely installed. For visual balance, a longer floating cabinet often works particularly well underneath a large television.

What depth should a wall mounted TV unit be?

The ideal depth depends on what you intend to store. Shallow cabinets are useful in compact rooms, but you should check that media equipment and other devices will fit comfortably and have sufficient ventilation.

What should I store inside wall mounted TV units?

Typical items include remote controls, games controllers, streaming devices, cables, batteries, instruction manuals and small entertainment accessories. Frequently used electronic equipment should have adequate ventilation.

Can wall mounted TV units be used without mounting the TV?

Yes. The cabinet itself can be wall mounted while the television remains on another suitable support arrangement, provided everything is used and installed according to its intended design. However, the strongest floating visual effect is usually created when both the television and cabinet are wall mounted.

Are wall mounted TV units fashionable in the UK?

Floating and wall mounted furniture continues to suit many contemporary UK interiors because it complements modern televisions, minimalist layouts and space-conscious living. More importantly, the design offers practical benefits that go beyond changing interior trends.

What is the difference between floating TV units and wall mounted TV units?

The terms are commonly used to describe the same type of furniture. "Floating" refers to the visual effect created when the cabinet is attached to the wall with no visible floor support, while "wall mounted" describes the installation method.

How do I choose the best wall mounted TV unit?

Start by measuring your wall and television. Then consider cabinet width, depth, storage capacity, cable management, wall construction, finish and installation requirements. The best wall mounted tv units combine suitable proportions with practical storage and safe installation.