TV stand or wall mount? Pros, cons and style tips from Roseland Furniture
When it comes to designing your living room, few decisions have more impact than where and how you place your TV.
It’s about more than viewing angles. In fact, the way you display your TV will influence the flow, function, and feel of your entire lounge.
Two of the most popular options are using a traditional TV stand or opting for a sleek wall mount. But based on how you’re going to use the space, and, of course, your design preferences, which is the right choice for you?
Ultimately, it comes down to finding the right balance between style and practicality. So, whether you're creating a modern minimalist lounge or a cosy cottage-style snug, here’s our guide to the pros and cons of each approach, and how to give your TV setup maximum impact.
The TV stand: a classic, functional favourite
A TV stand is timeless – and it works brilliantly across a range of interiors. From rustic oak finishes to streamlined painted options, the TV unit you go for can offer a style hit with excellent space for all your essentials.
What are the pros of using TV stands?
They are easy to move and install
There are no drills, and no drama involved! TV stands are simple to position, making them ideal for renters or anyone who likes to switch things up now and then.
You might like: Our Farrow 120cm TV Stand, which comes fully assembled for your convenience
You’ll get extra built-in storage
Coming complete with drawers, shelves, or cabinets, a stand will help you hide away remote controls, cables, and other items that would otherwise be littered around your living room.
You might like: Our London Oak Large Smart TV Stand, which boasts shelves with an impressive capacity
You can decorate them however you like
A TV stand provides a perfect platform for showing off a bit of your own stylish flair! Add plants, vases, or framed photos to soften the tech feel of your TV setup.
You might like: Our Oskar Wide 190cm Grooved TV Unit, which offers a distinctive grooved design with plenty of surface space for all your best-loved items
TV stands are a more sensible choice for period homes
If your home features original details like panelled walls or ornate fireplaces, a wall-mounted TV might feel too modern (and the fixture could cause unwanted damage to the wall). A stand allows you to introduce technology in a way that complements more characterful interiors.
You might like: Our Zelah Oak 180cm TV Stand, with its rustic hue and unfussy aesthetic
And what are the cons?
TV stands take up valuable floor space
TV units, especially larger ones, can eat into your room’s footprint, which is something to consider if you’re decorating a room with limited square footage.
They will typically give you a lower viewing position
Depending on the height of your sofa and the size of your screen, your TV may sit lower than you’d like when it’s placed on a TV unit, which could make longer viewing sessions a little less comfortable.
The wall mount: a more modern and practical alternative
Mounting your TV to the wall is a space-saving solution with an undeniably contemporary appeal. It’s a look that works particularly well in minimalist interiors where clean lines and a clutter-free views are key.
What are the pros of installing TV wall mounts?
They save a tonne of space
Mounting your TV clears valuable floor area, making rooms feel larger and less ‘busy ‘, which is especially handy in open-plan living areas or small apartments.
They give your room a sleeker look
Because they can hide away cables and keep your surfaces clear, wall-mounted TV setups will give your living room or bedroom a more streamlined, polished appearance.
You can choose your perfect viewing height
You can position your TV at the perfect eye level for your seating arrangement, which might be better for your ergonomics.
They are child and pet friendly
Got curious toddlers or overenthusiastic pets? Wall-mounting your TV will keep it out of reach and safe from knocks or spills.
And what are the cons?
You’ll need to drill into the wall
You’ll have to fix your TV to a wall stud or use specialist fixings, which may not be suitable for all wall types, especially in older homes with delicate plaster or stonework. And if you’re not that handy around the home, this might make you a little nervous!
There’s no added storage
Wall mounting removes the built-in storage that a stand provides, so you’ll need to find another solution for your DVD players, consoles, or decorative accessories.
There’s less flexibility
Once it’s up, it’s up. Wall-mounted TVs aren’t easy to reposition without leaving marks or holes behind.
Want the best of both worlds?
Can’t decide between a TV mount and a stand? You don’t always have to opt for one or the other. Consider combining both by mounting your TV above a stylish media unit. This setup keeps your TV in a higher position while retaining storage and styling space below.
Style tips to get you started
If you’re using a TV stand:
· Create a balanced display by flanking your screen with tall decorative pieces like candlesticks or lamps to soften the edges of the stand itself.
· Use storage wisely! Choose a unit with concealed compartments to reduce visual clutter.
· Coordinate the wood tone or painted finish of your stand with your coffee table or sideboard for a harmonious look.
· You might like: Our Zelah Oak Corner TV Stand with Baskets, which offers a unique (and more accessible) means of storing cables and other small items
If you’re wall mounting:
· Frame the space by adding floating shelves or a slim console table below the screen for storage and display purposes.
· Use cable management kits or in-wall solutions to keep the look clean and fuss-free.
· Add appealing textures to your mounted TV setup by placing artwork, woven baskets, or a statement rug nearby.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing between a TV stand or a wall mount. It really depends on your space, own sense of style, and your family’s lifestyle.
If you love flexibility, added storage, and want more styling opportunities, a TV stand could be your best bet, whereas if you prefer a cleaner, more contemporary aesthetic with maximised floor space, a wall mount might be the way to go.
At Roseland Furniture, our collection of TV units brings together quality craftsmanship and a range of practical features – and there are plenty of different sizes and finishes on offer, so you’re bound to find a piece from our collection that works beautifully in your home.
Browse our TV units online or contact us directly for tailored advice.