TV Unit Buying Guide for UK Homes

Understanding Your Requirements

Purchasing a TV unit involves more considerations than simply finding something that fits your television. The right choice depends on your room size, storage needs, interior style, and how you use your living space. Taking time to assess these factors before shopping prevents regret and ensures you select a unit that serves you well for years.

Start by examining your current setup. What works about it, and what frustrates you? Perhaps cables are constantly visible, or you lack space for a games console. Maybe the existing stand is the wrong height, causing neck strain during long viewing sessions. Identifying these pain points guides your search.

Measuring Your Space Accurately

Precise measurements are essential. Note the width available for the unit, remembering to account for skirting boards, plug sockets, and any protruding features. Measure the height from floor to desired screen centre to ensure comfortable viewing from your sofa.

Consider depth too. TV units vary considerably, and a deep unit might project too far into walkways or make a narrow room feel cramped. For tight spaces, slimline designs or corner TV stands offer alternatives.

Note your television dimensions as well. The unit should be wider than your TV base, with the screen fitting comfortably without overhang. Also verify the weight rating matches or exceeds your television.

Storage Requirements

Modern living rooms often house numerous devices. Consider what you need to accommodate: streaming boxes, games consoles, soundbars, DVD or Blu ray players, and perhaps a digital recorder. Count your devices and check that your chosen unit provides adequate shelf space.

Closed storage suits those who prefer a tidy appearance. Drawers and cupboards hide equipment, cables, and accessories from view. However, ensure cupboard fronts do not block remote control signals unless you plan to use a remote extender.

Open shelving keeps equipment accessible and allows heat to dissipate from devices. This suits those who frequently switch between consoles or devices and prefer everything within easy reach.

The combination of both works well for many households. Keep frequently used items on open shelves and store DVDs, games, and accessories behind doors.

Material Choices

TV units come in various materials, each with distinct characteristics. Wooden TV stands bring warmth and suit traditional or rustic interiors. Oak, walnut, and pine each offer different tones and grain patterns.

Glass TV stands create an impression of space and suit modern, minimalist rooms. Their transparent surfaces allow light to pass through, preventing that solid, heavy look.

High gloss TV stands reflect light and add brightness. They work well in contemporary spaces and are available in white, black, grey, and various colours.

Metal framed units offer an industrial aesthetic. Combined with wood or glass, they suit eclectic or urban style interiors.

Style and Room Coordination

Your TV unit should complement existing furniture rather than clash with it. Consider the dominant materials and colours in your living room. If you have wooden flooring and a wooden coffee table, a wooden TV stand in similar tones creates harmony.

Contrasting materials can work too, provided the overall palette remains cohesive. A glass TV stand alongside a leather sofa and metal floor lamp creates a coherent modern scheme.

Think about longevity. Trendy designs may date quickly, while classic shapes in quality materials remain appealing for decades. Neutral colours offer flexibility should you redecorate in future.

Cable Management Features

Tangled cables undermine even the finest furniture. Look for units with built in cable management: rear openings, discreet channels, or removable back panels that allow neat routing of wires to wall sockets.

Some stands include cable clips or integrated power strips. These additions simplify setup and maintain tidiness over time as you add or change devices.

If your chosen unit lacks cable management, aftermarket solutions such as cable sleeves, clips, and concealer channels can achieve similar results with a little extra effort.

Budget Considerations

TV units span a wide price range. Budget TV stands suit those furnishing their first home or rental property, while investment pieces in solid wood or designer styles serve those seeking long term furniture.

Consider cost per year of use. A quality unit that lasts fifteen years may prove better value than a cheaper alternative replaced every three or four years. Build quality, material thickness, and hardware all affect longevity.

At Furniture in Fashion, we offer TV units across price points, all with free UK delivery. Our range includes options for every budget and interior style.

Frequently Asked Questions

What width TV unit do I need?

The unit should be at least as wide as your television, preferably 10 to 15 percent wider. This creates visual balance and provides space for decorative items either side of the screen.

Should I choose a TV unit or wall mount my television?

This depends on your property and preferences. Wall mounting saves floor space and creates a sleek look but requires drilling into walls and makes cable concealment more challenging. A TV unit offers storage and flexibility to rearrange your room.

How high should a TV unit be?

The centre of your television screen should align roughly with seated eye level. For most sofas, this means the TV centre sits approximately 100 to 120cm from the floor. Measure your seating height to determine the appropriate unit height.

Can a TV unit hold a soundbar?

Most can, though placement varies. Some soundbars sit in front of the television on the unit surface, while others mount on a shelf below. Measure your soundbar and check unit dimensions to confirm fit.

How do I prevent my TV unit from scratching my floor?

Furniture felt pads attached to the unit feet protect hard floors from scratches. These are inexpensive, easy to apply, and also make moving the unit easier when needed.