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The television has become a natural focal point in many UK living rooms, but the furniture surrounding it can have just as much influence on how the room looks, feels and functions. Traditional TV stands can take up valuable floor space, create awkward gaps and make an otherwise modern room feel unnecessarily cluttered. Wall mounted TV units offer a practical alternative, combining streamlined storage with a contemporary floating appearance.

Whether you are redesigning an entire lounge, updating a media wall or simply trying to make better use of a smaller living room, wall mounted TV units can transform the space without requiring a complete renovation.

Available in numerous sizes, finishes and storage configurations, wall mounted TV units can suit everything from compact flats to large open-plan homes. They can provide concealed storage for electronics and accessories while helping to create a cleaner, more organised entertainment area.

This detailed guide explains what wall mounted TV units are, how they work, what to consider before buying, how to choose the correct size and height, and how to incorporate them successfully into different UK living room layouts.

What Are Wall Mounted TV Units?

Wall mounted TV units are storage units designed to be fixed directly to a wall rather than standing on legs or resting on the floor.

They are sometimes described as floating TV units, wall hung TV cabinets, floating media units, wall mounted media cabinets or wall mounted entertainment units. Although terminology varies, the basic principle remains the same: the cabinet is securely attached to the wall, leaving visible floor space beneath it.

This floating arrangement produces a clean, contemporary appearance and can make a room feel more spacious.

Depending on the design, wall mounted TV units may feature:

• Cupboards with hinged or drop-down doors
• Open media compartments
• Drawers
• Cable access points
• Shelves
• Push-to-open doors
• Multiple connected cabinets
• Long, low-profile storage compartments

Some wall mounted TV units are designed primarily as storage beneath a separately wall-mounted television. Others form part of a larger entertainment wall incorporating shelves, cabinets and display areas.

The flexibility of these units is one of the reasons they work in such a wide variety of homes.

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

Modern British living spaces often need to perform several functions simultaneously. A living room may be used for relaxing, watching television, entertaining guests, working from home and storing everyday belongings.

Furniture therefore needs to provide practical storage without dominating the room.

Wall mounted TV units address this particularly well.

Because the cabinet is raised above floor level, more of the flooring remains visible. This can make the room appear larger and less crowded, particularly when compared with bulky freestanding entertainment furniture.

The clean horizontal lines of wall mounted TV furniture also complement contemporary interiors.

Another important advantage is flexibility. Instead of accepting the fixed height of a conventional TV stand, a wall hung TV unit can usually be positioned at a height that suits the room and the overall entertainment setup.

Wall Mounted TV Units Create a Cleaner Living Room

One of the biggest visual benefits of wall mounted TV units is their ability to reduce the appearance of clutter.

Television areas naturally accumulate equipment and accessories. Streaming devices, games consoles, controllers, cables, remote controls, routers and other electronics can quickly make the space look untidy.

A well-designed wall mounted TV cabinet provides somewhere to organise these items.

Closed cupboards are particularly useful when you want a minimalist appearance because equipment can be stored behind doors rather than permanently displayed.

Cable management is equally important.

A beautifully designed floating unit can lose much of its impact when multiple cables are hanging between the television, sockets and media equipment. Planning cable routes before installation can therefore make a significant difference to the finished result.

Wall Mounted TV Units for Small Living Rooms

Wall mounted TV units are particularly useful in smaller UK homes, apartments and flats where floor space is limited.

Although mounting furniture on the wall does not physically increase the dimensions of the room, it changes how the available space is perceived.

Seeing uninterrupted flooring beneath furniture can create a greater feeling of openness.

This makes wall mounted TV units especially suitable for:

• Small living rooms
• Apartments
• Studio flats
• Narrow lounges
• Open-plan kitchen and living spaces
• Bedrooms with televisions
• Compact media rooms

In smaller rooms, choosing the correct proportions becomes particularly important.

An excessively deep TV cabinet may project too far into the room, while an oversized unit can visually overwhelm a narrow wall.

A slimline wall mounted TV unit can provide useful storage while keeping the overall footprint relatively unobtrusive.

Wall Mounted TV Units for Large Living Rooms

Wall mounted TV units are not limited to compact spaces.

In larger living rooms, they can be used to create a substantial entertainment feature without relying on bulky traditional furniture.

Long wall mounted TV units can visually anchor large televisions and help prevent them from appearing isolated on a wide wall.

Multiple cabinets can also sometimes be arranged together to create an extended floating media console.

For example, two or three coordinating units positioned side by side can produce a wide horizontal installation suitable for a larger living room or open-plan space.

The key is maintaining balance between the width of the television, the unit and the wall itself.

Choosing the Correct Width for Wall Mounted TV Units

Width is one of the most important considerations when selecting wall mounted TV units.

As a general design principle, the cabinet underneath a television usually looks best when it is wider than the television itself.

This creates visual balance.

A large television positioned above a noticeably narrower cabinet can appear top-heavy. A wider unit creates a stronger horizontal foundation underneath the screen.

However, there is no universal width that works in every room.

Before ordering, measure:

1. The total width of the available wall.
2. The width of your television.
3. Nearby doors, windows and radiators.
4. The position of electrical sockets.
5. Any existing shelving or furniture.

Marking the proposed width on the wall with low-tack masking tape can help you visualise the proportions before installation.

How High Should Wall Mounted TV Units Be?

The ideal height depends on your television position, seating arrangement, cabinet dimensions and personal preference.

A wall mounted TV unit should normally sit comfortably below the television while leaving enough visual separation between the cabinet and screen.

You should also consider how high the television itself is mounted.

For comfortable viewing, the centre area of the television should generally be positioned around seated eye level rather than excessively high on the wall.

Once the TV position has been established, the floating cabinet can be positioned underneath it.

Many homeowners deliberately leave a visible gap beneath wall mounted TV units. This reinforces the floating effect and keeps the floor easy to access for cleaning.

Rather than relying on a single standard measurement, consider the entire arrangement as one composition:

floor → floating cabinet → gap → television → remaining wall space.

The objective is to create comfortable viewing and balanced proportions.

Wall Mounted TV Units and Modern Media Walls

Media walls have become increasingly popular in UK interiors, and wall mounted TV units can provide a straightforward way to achieve a similar aesthetic without constructing a complete built-in installation.

A floating cabinet positioned beneath a wall-mounted television immediately establishes the central structure of an entertainment wall.

Additional features can then be added around it, such as:

• Floating shelves
• Decorative wall panels
• Slatted wall features
• Display shelving
• Wall lighting
• Decorative accessories
• Artwork
• Acoustic panels

The result can look highly customised while retaining flexibility.

A modular arrangement also makes future changes easier than permanently built-in furniture.

White Wall Mounted TV Units

White wall mounted TV units are an excellent option for light, modern interiors.

White furniture can blend naturally with pale walls, creating a subtle floating effect rather than making the storage unit the dominant feature.

This can be particularly effective in smaller rooms where maintaining a light visual palette helps the space feel open.

White wall mounted TV units pair well with:

• Neutral walls
• Light wood flooring
• Grey furnishings
• Minimalist interiors
• Scandinavian-inspired décor
• Contemporary living rooms

Adding natural textures such as timber, woven accessories and soft furnishings can prevent an all-white entertainment area from feeling too clinical.

Black Wall Mounted TV Units

Black wall mounted TV units create a stronger, more dramatic appearance.

Because televisions are typically dark when switched off, a black cabinet underneath can visually connect with the screen and create a cohesive entertainment zone.

Black TV furniture works particularly well with modern interiors featuring contrasting walls, dark accents or industrial influences.

It can also be highly effective against lighter walls because the strong contrast makes the floating furniture more noticeable.

For a sophisticated look, combine black wall mounted TV units with restrained decorative accessories rather than filling every available surface.

Grey Wall Mounted TV Units

Grey sits comfortably between the visual softness of white and the stronger appearance of black.

This makes grey wall mounted TV units extremely versatile.

Grey can complement numerous UK interior colour schemes, including white, charcoal, beige, cream, blue and natural timber tones.

Lighter greys can help maintain an airy appearance, while darker charcoal finishes provide greater visual impact.

Grey is particularly useful when you want the entertainment furniture to feel contemporary without creating the strong contrast associated with black.

Wood Effect Wall Mounted TV Units

Wood effect wall mounted TV units introduce warmth and texture into the entertainment area.

Natural-looking timber finishes can soften the technological appearance of a large television and help integrate it with the rest of the room.

Oak-effect and similar wood finishes work particularly well alongside neutral décor, wooden flooring and natural materials.

Wood effect floating TV furniture can suit several interior styles, including:

• Contemporary
• Scandinavian-inspired
• Industrial
• Rustic-modern
• Minimalist
• Mid-century influenced interiors

Combining wood tones with black or dark grey details can create an especially contemporary media wall.

Gloss Wall Mounted TV Units

Gloss wall mounted TV units provide a sleek finish that suits highly contemporary interiors.

Reflective surfaces can bounce light around the room and create a polished appearance, particularly when combined with modern lighting.

Gloss finishes can be effective in smaller rooms because reflected light may help the entertainment area feel brighter.

However, glossy surfaces can show fingerprints and dust more readily than some matt finishes, so regular cleaning may be required.

For homeowners prioritising a sharp, contemporary aesthetic, this may be a worthwhile trade-off.

Matt Wall Mounted TV Units

Matt wall mounted TV units offer a more understated alternative.

Rather than reflecting significant amounts of light, matt surfaces create a softer appearance.

They can work particularly well in modern minimalist interiors where the objective is to achieve clean lines without excessive shine.

Matt black, charcoal, white and neutral finishes are particularly adaptable and can integrate easily with other furniture.

Storage Options in Wall Mounted TV Units

Storage should be considered just as carefully as appearance.

Before choosing a unit, think about what you actually need to store.

Possible items include:

• Games consoles
• Streaming devices
• Remote controls
• Controllers
• DVDs or games
• Routers
• Cables and chargers
• Small speakers
• Manuals
• Living room accessories

If most of these items can remain hidden, closed cabinets may be preferable.

If electronic equipment requires remote control access or significant ventilation, open compartments may be more practical.

A combination of open and closed storage can provide the best of both approaches.

Cable Management for Wall Mounted TV Units

Cable management is essential if you want to achieve the clean floating appearance associated with wall mounted TV units.

Start by identifying every device that will connect to the television.

Consider power cables, HDMI cables, internet connections, aerial cables, sound equipment and gaming systems.

You can then determine where these cables need to travel.

Where appropriate, cable channels can provide a relatively straightforward solution. More integrated installations may conceal suitable cabling within the wall, although electrical and installation work should always be completed appropriately and safely.

Planning before installation is significantly easier than trying to hide cables afterwards.

Ventilation and Electronic Equipment

Do not overlook ventilation when placing electronic devices inside wall mounted TV units.

Games consoles, media players and other powered equipment can generate heat.

If these devices are placed inside enclosed cabinets, adequate airflow may be necessary.

Check the requirements of individual electronic devices and avoid tightly packing equipment together.

Open-backed sections, ventilation openings or open shelving may be preferable for equipment that produces substantial heat.

Can Wall Mounted TV Units Hold the Television?

This depends entirely on the specific product.

The term wall mounted TV unit does not automatically mean that the television itself should sit on top of the cabinet.

Many floating TV cabinets are primarily designed as storage units and are intended to sit beneath a television that has been independently secured to the wall.

Never assume that a wall hung cabinet can support the weight of a television unless the product specifications explicitly confirm this.

Check the stated maximum load and installation instructions before placing heavy objects on the unit.

Wall Type and Safe Installation

Correct installation is essential.

Wall mounted TV units place their load directly onto the wall, so the wall construction and fixings must be suitable.

UK homes can contain various wall types, including masonry, plasterboard, stud walls and combinations of different materials.

The appropriate fixing method depends on both the wall and the weight of the furniture.

If you are uncertain about the wall structure, suitable fixings or load-bearing capacity, professional installation is sensible.

A floating cabinet should feel completely secure once installed.

Never rely on unsuitable generic fixings simply because they were convenient or readily available.

Measuring Before Buying Wall Mounted TV Units

Accurate measurement can prevent many common problems.

Measure the available wall width and height, but also pay attention to depth.

A deep cabinet can interfere with walkways in narrow living rooms even when it fits perfectly across the wall.

You should also check:

• Skirting boards
• Plug sockets
• Light switches
• Radiators
• Door openings
• Window positions
• Existing cable outlets
• Television dimensions
• Speaker locations

Create a simple sketch of the wall and add the measurements.

This makes comparing different wall mounted TV units much easier.

Wall Mounted TV Units for 55-Inch TVs

A 55-inch television is common in modern living rooms and works well with many floating cabinet arrangements.

Rather than choosing furniture solely according to the advertised television size, check the actual width of your TV.

Two televisions with the same diagonal screen measurement may have slightly different external dimensions.

A cabinet that extends beyond the television on both sides generally creates a balanced appearance.

For a more dramatic media-wall effect, choose a considerably wider unit and use the additional width for decoration or storage.

Wall Mounted TV Units for 65-Inch TVs

Larger televisions require more careful consideration of proportion.

With a 65-inch television, a narrow floating cabinet may appear undersized.

Longer wall mounted TV units can provide a stronger visual foundation and help integrate the larger screen into the room.

This becomes increasingly important in spacious living rooms where both the wall and television have substantial dimensions.

Always consider viewing distance and television mounting height alongside cabinet width.

Wall Mounted TV Units for 75-Inch TVs and Larger Screens

Very large televisions can dominate a wall.

A long floating TV cabinet can help create a deliberate entertainment feature rather than leaving the television looking like an oversized standalone object.

Modular wall mounted TV units may be particularly useful because several sections can sometimes be combined to achieve the required width.

Keep decorative accessories relatively restrained around very large screens. Too many objects can make the wall appear visually busy.

Styling Wall Mounted TV Units

One advantage of floating TV furniture is the clean surface it creates underneath the screen.

You do not need to fill this surface.

In fact, wall mounted TV units often look best when styling is intentionally minimal.

Consider using one or two carefully selected items, such as:

• A small plant
• Decorative books
• A sculptural ornament
• A simple vase
• A subtle lamp

Avoid placing tall objects directly in front of the television.

Leaving some empty surface space reinforces the streamlined appearance.

Lighting Around Wall Mounted TV Units

Lighting can dramatically change how a floating entertainment area looks in the evening.

Soft ambient lighting can emphasise the gap underneath wall mounted TV units and enhance their floating appearance.

Lighting behind the television can also create additional depth.

The key is subtlety.

Extremely bright decorative lighting can become distracting when watching television, while warm, restrained illumination can make the space feel comfortable and sophisticated.

If lighting is being incorporated into a new installation, plan the power supply and cable routing before mounting the cabinet.

Wall Mounted TV Units and Cleaning

Floating furniture can make floor cleaning easier because there are no legs or cabinet bases creating awkward corners.

Vacuum cleaners, mops and suitable robotic cleaning devices can potentially move underneath the cabinet more easily, depending on the installation height.

The cabinet itself will still require routine cleaning.

Use methods appropriate for its finish and avoid harsh products that could damage painted, gloss, laminated or wood-effect surfaces.

Wall Mounted TV Units Versus Freestanding TV Stands

Both options have advantages.

Freestanding TV stands are simple to position and can often be moved without significant effort. They may also be suitable for renters or anyone who does not want to drill into walls.

Wall mounted TV units provide a more integrated appearance.

They free the visible floor area underneath the cabinet and can make the entertainment space feel more architectural and intentional.

For modern interiors where appearance and efficient use of space are priorities, wall mounted units are particularly attractive.

The correct choice ultimately depends on your wall structure, storage requirements, room layout and whether permanent wall fixing is practical.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Wall Mounted TV Units

One of the most common mistakes is buying based purely on appearance.

A unit may look perfect online but be unsuitable for your room if the proportions, storage capacity or depth are wrong.

Another mistake is failing to consider wall construction until installation day.

Other common issues include:

• Mounting the unit too high
• Choosing a cabinet narrower than expected
• Ignoring cable routes
• Blocking plug sockets
• Overloading the cabinet
• Placing heat-generating electronics in unventilated compartments
• Choosing furniture that projects too far into a narrow room
• Installing the television too high above the seating position

Careful planning avoids most of these problems.

How to Make Wall Mounted TV Units Look Built In

You do not necessarily need bespoke joinery to achieve an integrated look.

Start by selecting a cabinet with proportions that complement the wall.

Position it precisely underneath the television and keep visible cables to an absolute minimum.

You can then visually connect the different elements using wall treatments, paint, panelling or shelving.

For example, a contrasting section of wall behind both the television and cabinet can make them appear like a single installation.

Alternatively, matching floating shelves positioned nearby can create a cohesive furniture arrangement.

Consistency is more important than complexity.

Are Wall Mounted TV Units Suitable for Bedrooms?

Yes.

Wall mounted TV units can be particularly useful in bedrooms because they minimise the amount of floor space occupied by entertainment furniture.

A shallow floating cabinet can provide storage for media accessories without requiring a large conventional TV stand.

This can be valuable in smaller bedrooms where wardrobes, beds and bedside furniture already consume much of the available floor area.

As with living room installations, pay close attention to mounting height and viewing position.

Wall Mounted TV Units for Open-Plan Living

Open-plan homes present a different design challenge because furniture can be viewed from several areas.

A bulky TV stand may interrupt the visual flow between living, kitchen and dining zones.

Wall mounted TV units can create a more defined entertainment area while maintaining an uncluttered floor plan.

Choose a finish that relates to other materials already present in the space.

For example, a wood effect unit might coordinate with a dining table, while a matt black unit could connect visually with dark kitchen fittings or lighting details.

This repetition helps the entire open-plan space feel intentional.

Creating a Minimalist Look With Wall Mounted TV Units

Minimalism is not simply about having fewer possessions. It is also about controlling visual noise.

Wall mounted TV units support this approach by providing concealed storage and keeping furniture away from the floor.

For a minimalist entertainment area:

Choose simple cabinet shapes.

Keep decorative items limited.

Conceal cables wherever practical.

Use coordinated colours.

Avoid overcrowding the surrounding wall.

Store accessories inside the cabinet rather than leaving them permanently visible.

The television area can then feel calm even when it contains substantial technology.

How to Choose the Best Wall Mounted TV Units for Your Home

There is no single best wall mounted TV unit for every home.

The right choice is the unit that successfully combines your practical requirements with the proportions and style of your room.

Before purchasing, consider five main factors.

First, size. Make sure the cabinet suits both your television and available wall space.

Second, storage. Decide exactly what needs to fit inside.

Third, wall suitability. Confirm that the unit can be safely installed on your wall type.

Fourth, style. Choose a colour and finish that complements your existing interior.

Fifth, functionality. Think about cable access, ventilation and how frequently you need to reach your electronic equipment.

When all five factors are considered together, you are far more likely to choose a unit that works successfully for years rather than simply looking attractive when first installed.

Why Wall Mounted TV Units Are a Practical Long-Term Choice

Interior trends change, but efficient use of space remains important.

Wall mounted TV units combine several characteristics that are likely to remain useful regardless of changing decorative trends: storage, flexibility, floor clearance and visual simplicity.

They can work as a straightforward floating cabinet beneath a television or become the foundation of a complete media wall.

They can also adapt to different room sizes and interior styles.

For UK homeowners trying to create a cleaner, more organised and contemporary entertainment area, wall mounted TV units provide an effective balance between practical furniture and modern interior design.

Final Thoughts on Wall Mounted TV Units

The best living rooms are not simply attractive; they are comfortable, organised and easy to use.

Wall mounted TV units can help achieve all three.

By moving storage away from the floor, they create a lighter visual appearance while still providing useful space for media equipment and everyday accessories. They can help conceal clutter, improve the organisation of an entertainment area and form a strong visual foundation beneath a wall-mounted television.

The key to getting the best result is planning.

Measure the room carefully, consider the width of the television, identify your storage requirements, plan cables and ventilation, and make sure the wall is suitable for secure installation.

Once those practical considerations have been addressed, you can focus on colour, finish and styling.

Whether you are furnishing a small UK flat, updating a family living room or creating a large contemporary media wall, wall mounted TV units offer a flexible way to turn an ordinary television wall into a cleaner, more functional and visually impressive feature.

FAQ SECTION

What are wall mounted TV units?

Wall mounted TV units are cabinets or media storage units that attach directly to a wall rather than standing on the floor. They are commonly positioned underneath a television and provide storage while creating a floating appearance.

Are wall mounted TV units suitable for small living rooms?

Yes. Wall mounted TV units can work particularly well in small living rooms because keeping the floor visible underneath the furniture creates a less cluttered appearance. Slimline models are especially useful where room depth is limited.

How wide should a wall mounted TV unit be?

The ideal width depends on your television and wall. From a visual perspective, many installations look balanced when the TV unit is wider than the television, creating additional space on either side of the screen.

How high should wall mounted TV units be installed?

There is no universal installation height. The correct position depends on the height of your seating, television and cabinet. Consider the entire entertainment arrangement rather than positioning the cabinet independently.

Can wall mounted TV units be fitted to plasterboard?

Potentially, but installation depends on the construction of the wall, the weight of the cabinet, its intended load and the fixing method. Appropriate structural support and fixings are essential. Seek professional installation advice if you are uncertain.

Can I put my television directly on a wall mounted TV unit?

Only if the specific cabinet is designed to support the television's weight. Many wall mounted TV units are intended primarily for storage underneath an independently wall-mounted television. Always check the manufacturer's load specifications.

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

White and other lighter finishes can help create an open appearance, particularly against similarly light walls. However, cabinet dimensions, room layout and the amount of visible floor space can have an equally important effect.

Are wall mounted TV units good for media walls?

Yes. Wall mounted TV units can provide the base of a media wall and can be combined with wall-mounted televisions, shelving, decorative panels and lighting to create a coordinated entertainment feature.

How do you hide cables with wall mounted TV units?

Cable channels, carefully positioned sockets and appropriate concealed cable routes can all help reduce visible wiring. Cable management should ideally be planned before the television and cabinet are installed.

Do wall mounted TV units need ventilation?

The cabinet itself may not require ventilation, but electronic equipment stored inside can generate heat. Games consoles, media devices and similar equipment should have sufficient airflow according to their operating requirements.

Are wall mounted TV units better than TV stands?

Neither is universally better. Wall mounted TV units provide a streamlined appearance and leave more floor visible, while freestanding TV stands are generally easier to move and do not require permanent wall mounting. The best choice depends on your room and requirements.

What size wall mounted TV unit do I need for a 65-inch TV?

Measure the actual width of your television rather than relying solely on its diagonal screen measurement. Many people prefer a floating TV unit that extends beyond the television on both sides because it creates a more balanced appearance.

Can you combine multiple wall mounted TV units?

Some modular designs can be positioned side by side to create a longer floating entertainment cabinet. Always follow the relevant installation requirements for each individual unit.

Are wall mounted TV units suitable for large televisions?

Yes. Long wall mounted TV units can work particularly well underneath larger televisions because they provide a strong horizontal visual foundation. Ensure the wall, cabinet and television are all installed safely according to their respective requirements.

What should I store inside a wall mounted TV unit?

Common items include remote controls, gaming accessories, streaming devices, cables, chargers and other living room accessories. Consider ventilation before storing powered electronics inside enclosed compartments.

Do wall mounted TV units make a room look bigger?

They can make a room feel more spacious because the flooring remains visible beneath the cabinet. This reduces the visual weight of the furniture and can create a cleaner, more open appearance.

What style of wall mounted TV unit is best for a modern living room?

Simple, low-profile designs with clean lines are particularly effective in modern living rooms. White, black, grey, wood effect, gloss and matt finishes can all work depending on the surrounding décor.

Are floating TV units the same as wall mounted TV units?

The terms are frequently used to describe the same type of furniture. Both generally refer to TV storage cabinets that are secured to the wall and raised above floor level.

How deep should wall mounted TV units be?

The appropriate depth depends on what you need to store and the available room space. Shallower units can be useful in narrow rooms, while deeper cabinets may offer greater storage capacity. Always check that your electronic equipment will fit before purchasing.

What should I check before buying wall mounted TV units?

Measure your wall, television and available depth; check storage requirements; identify sockets and cable routes; consider ventilation; confirm wall suitability; and check the cabinet's dimensions and load requirements. Planning these details before ordering significantly reduces the risk of installation problems.