5 TV Wall Unit Ideas for Small Living Rooms: Creative, space-saving TV wall units I actually used in real projects — practical tips and budget notesMika ChenFeb 09, 2026Table of Contents1. Floating media shelf with hidden storage2. Full-height built-in with vertical storage3. Low credenza with wall-mounted TV4. Multi-functional unit with desk or bar5. Open shelving grid for a modern lookTips 1FAQFree Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREEI once installed a TV wall unit upside down because the client insisted the soundbar looked better that way — true story, and yes, we fixed it. Small living rooms often force you into weird choices, but they also spark the most creative solutions. I’ve learned that a well-designed TV wall unit can be the room’s hero, saving space while adding personality.1. Floating media shelf with hidden storageI often specify a floating shelf beneath the TV that looks light but hides a drawer for remotes and cables. The advantage is visual openness and easy cleaning; the catch is limited depth, so plan cabinet sizes carefully. In one apartment I worked on, the floating shelf kept the floor clear and made the tiny living room feel wider.save pin2. Full-height built-in with vertical storageWhen height is your friend, a full-height unit that frames the TV gives plenty of storage and a cohesive look. It’s great for books, décor and an occasional plant; downside is cost and installation time. I like to break the facade with a contrasting panel or recessed lighting to avoid a monolithic feel.save pin3. Low credenza with wall-mounted TVClassic and reliable — a low credenza paired with a wall-mounted TV keeps sightlines clean and provides top surface for speakers or art. It’s budget-friendly and simple to style, though it doesn’t exploit vertical space. For a rental, this is my go-to: easy to change and light on the wallet.save pin4. Multi-functional unit with desk or barIn very compact homes, I combine the TV wall unit with a small desk or mini-bar on one side. It’s an efficient double-duty approach: work, storage and TV in one zone. The trade-off is complexity in planning and wiring, but the payoff is huge for functionality.save pin5. Open shelving grid for a modern lookAn open grid of shelves around the TV feels airy and modern, perfect for displaying objects and keeping the room dynamic. It can look cluttered if not styled well, so I advise editing your items and keeping a consistent color palette. I used a grid in a loft and it became the apartment’s focal point without feeling heavy.save pinTips 1:Budget tip: laminate or painted MDF can mimic wood at a fraction of the price, while solid wood is warmer but pricier. Practical tip: plan cable runs before ordering the unit — hiding wires makes any setup look professional. For layout experiments, I often start in a simple planner to test proportions.save pinFAQQ: What is the ideal height for mounting a TV on a living room wall?A: Mount the center of the TV at eye level when seated, typically around 42–48 inches from the floor to the center for most sofas.Q: How much storage do I need in a TV wall unit?A: It depends on your lifestyle; aim for a mix of concealed storage for electronics and open shelving for décor to balance function and aesthetics.Q: Can I install a TV wall unit in a rental?A: Yes — choose freestanding credenzas, adhesive cable channels, or removable shelving to avoid permanent changes.Q: What materials are best for small living room units?A: Lightweight materials like MDF with paint or laminate work well for budget projects, while plywood or veneered panels offer a nicer finish without extreme cost.Q: How do I hide cables neatly?A: Use in-wall power kits where allowed, cable raceways painted to match the wall, or route cables through the unit’s cavities.Q: Are custom units worth the investment?A: Custom units give exact fit and tailored storage, worth it if you have irregular walls or specific needs; consider semi-custom options to reduce cost.Q: What design trends are popular for TV walls?A: Minimal floating units, integrated lighting, and mixed-material façades are trending. For evidence on contemporary design practices, see guidance from the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) for current standards.Q: How do I choose a style that matches my living room?A: Start with one statement finish (wood, matte paint, or stone) and coordinate accessories. Keep proportions in mind so the unit complements rather than overwhelms the room.save pinStart for FREEPlease check with customer service before testing new feature.Free Room PlannerDesign your dream room online for free with the powerful room designer toolStart for FREE