How to Choose the Perfect TV Unit for Your Home?
Choosing the perfect TV unit is more than just a functional decision – it is about creating a focal point that enhances your living space while reflecting your personal style. Well-designed TV units showcase your television, provide practical storage, and seamlessly integrate with the decor of your home.
Whether you are hosting guests for a movie night or relaxing with your family, the TV setup is one of the first things that gets noticed. It is not just about the screen size – it is about how the TV is displayed, the furniture that frames it, and how the entire area contributes to the room’s style and functionality.
A well-chosen TV unit does not just hold your television; it elevates the entire living space. If you are wondering how, then this blog will guide you in choosing the perfect TV unit that showcases your TV and also complements your decor.
1. Assess Your Space and Layout
The first step in choosing a TV unit is understanding the layout and dimensions of the space where it will be placed.
For Small Living Rooms
Wall-mounted television units can be a game-changer in small spaces. They save valuable floor space, while providing a sleek and modern look. To keep the unit unobtrusive, ensure the depth is no more than 12-15 inches. For the ideal viewing experience, mount the TV so that the centre of the screen is 42-48 inches from the floor. To maximise storage, select TV units with built-in drawers or compartments that hide clutter such as remotes and cables.
For Large Living Rooms
Ranging 70-90 inches in width, a spacious unit pairs perfectly with larger TVs (55 inches or more) while balancing the room’s proportions. The unit should ideally be installed at a height of 24-30 inches from the floor, ensuring that the centre of your TV screen aligns with the eye level when you are seated. Look for units with closed TV cabinets for storing items such as DVDs & cables, and open shelves for displaying decor, books, or plants.
For Corner Spaces
Triangular or curved television cabinets are specifically designed to fit snugly into corners, making the most of every inch of available space. A height of 24-28 inches works well for corner setups, as it keeps the TV at a comfortable viewing level. While choosing corner TV units, ensure they have adjustable shelves or compartments – to accommodate sound systems, gaming consoles, or decorative accents.
2. Match the TV Unit to Your TV Size
The width of the TV units should always be larger than the TV screens, to avoid visual imbalance. Ideally, the unit should extend 6-12 inches beyond the edges of the TV on either side.
If you have a larger TV, such as a 75-inch model, a TV cabinet that is 80-90 inches wide will maintain proportionality and fill the space appropriately, especially in larger rooms. Conversely, for smaller TVs (32-40 inches), a compact unit around 40-45 inches wide, works well without overwhelming the room.
For most living rooms, the TV unit height should be 20-25 inches, depending on the seating height of your sofa or chairs. For wall-mounted units, position the TV so that the middle of the screen is approximately 42-48 inches from the floor. This ensures a natural viewing angle, whether you are sitting on a sofa or reclining on a lounger. If your seating arrangement is higher or lower than average, adjust the unit’s height accordingly.
3. Choosing the Right Material and Colour for Your TV Unit
Selecting the perfect TV unit involves combining materials & colours to create a cohesive design that complements your room’s style & size.
Light Wood and Neutral Shades
For a warm and inviting feel in smaller rooms, light wooden materials like oak or birch paired with neutral or pastel shades work beautifully. These combinations reflect light, making the space feel more open and airy. Light oak TV cabinets with matte white accents against pastel blue walls add natural elegance and minimalistic charm. Adding floating shelves in matching tones enhances the decor while providing extra storage.
Dark Wood and Deep Colours
TV units made of dark wood materials like walnut or mahogany add a luxurious and dramatic effect in a larger living room. Pair these with deep colours like navy blue or emerald green, to create a bold and sophisticated look. A walnut-finished TV showcase with brass handles against an emerald green wall exudes elegance. Add a touch of luxury without overpowering the design, by incorporating metallic finishes in drawer handles or decor pieces.
Glass and Metal with Monochromatic Palettes
A black metal-framed TV unit with a tempered glass top looks sleek and contemporary, when placed against grey walls and white floors. The reflective nature of glass brightens the space, while metal frames ensure durability and a clean aesthetic. Keeping the colour palette simple – black, grey, and white – emphasises clean lines and maintains clutter-free appearance.
Laminate or MDF in Bold Colours
Make a bold statement with laminate or MDF materials in vibrant colours – such as bright yellow, navy blue, or red. High-gloss finishes amplify these colours, making TV units a striking focal point. A navy blue unit with white accents against beige walls creates a balanced yet eye-catching contrast. Keep your living area lively by pairing bold colours with subtle decor and soft lighting.
4. Aligning Your TV Unit with Your Interior Style
Choosing a TV unit is not just about functionality; it is about integrating it seamlessly into the existing interior style of your home.
Minimalist Homes
These interiors thrive on simplicity, clean lines, and a clutter-free environment. A sleek, wall-mounted TV unit is the natural choice for a minimalistic design style. Neutral tones such as white, grey, or beige work best – ensuring the unit does not overwhelm the simplicity of the room.
Paired with a light grey wall, white wall-mounted television units with hidden compartments create an airy and open feel. You can enhance the minimalist vibe by adding floating shelves that display a few curated items, like small plants or monochrome decor pieces.
Traditional Homes
These interiors are known for ornate details, rich colours, and classic designs. A carved wooden unit with intricate detailing fits beautifully into traditional homes. Often made from solid or engineered wood, these TV units exude warmth and elegance.
You can complement the unit by incorporating brass or copper hardware. Enhance the traditional aesthetic by adding decor items like antique vases, framed photographs, or decorative figurines to the shelves.
Industrial Style
These interiors are inspired by urban lofts and warehouse aesthetics, featuring raw and rugged materials. A TV unit that combines wood and metal works seamlessly in an industrial style. Look for designs with exposed metal frames, distressed wood finishes, or rivet details – to capture the industrial vibe.
To add functionality, choose television cabinets with open sections for media devices or storage baskets. Tie the space together with industrial-style lighting, such as pendant lamps or Edison bulbs.
Scandinavian Design
These interiors focus on simplicity, functionality, and natural elements. Light-toned wooden TV units with clean lines and soft, neutral colours are ideal for the Scandinavian aesthetic. Materials like birch, pine, or ash in matte finishes work well to achieve a Nordic vibe.
For a cohesive look, pair a light birch TV unit with drawers and open shelving against a white or light grey wall. Enhance the natural aesthetic by including the TV showcase, that displays decor elements such as woven baskets, ceramic planters, or soft textiles.
Conclusion
Now that you have understood how to choose the perfect TV unit with this blog, you can confidently transform your living room into a functional and stylish space. By considering the room layout, TV size, materials, and interior style, you are equipped to select a unit that fits seamlessly into your home and enhances its overall appeal.
FAQs
1. Which material is best for a TV unit?
The material that is best for a TV unit is solid wood for durability and timelessness, laminate and MDF for affordability and versatility, glass and metal for modern, minimalist designs.
2. How high should a TV unit be for optimal viewing?
The height of a TV unit for optimal viewing is 24-30 inches from the floor.
3. Can I use a TV unit in a small space?
Yes, you can use a TV unit in a small space, with integrated storage to save space and keep the area organised.
4. What is the difference between a TV unit and an entertainment centre?
The difference between a TV unit and an entertainment centre lies in size and functionality. A TV unit is designed to hold the TV and offers some storage, while an entertainment centre is larger and often includes shelves for speakers, decor, and additional equipment.
Read to know more: Top 10 Multifunctional TV Unit Designs for Small Living Areas