10 Living Room TV Setup Ideas: Stylish & Functional Living Room TV Layouts for Small and Large Spaces

Over the past decade as an interior designer, I’ve noticed that living room TV setups have evolved far beyond the simple wall mount. Current design trends are leaning towards multi-functional spaces, statement wall designs, and integrated storage. And honestly, small living rooms often spark the most creativity. In this article, I’ll share 10 living room TV setup ideas—from my own projects and backed by industry insights—that balance style, comfort, and practicality.

1. Minimalist Floating TV Wall

My Take: I love how a floating TV unit keeps a living room feeling airy. I once designed one for a 25 m² apartment and it visually freed up so much space.

Pros: Creates a clean, uncluttered look; makes floor cleaning easier; can integrate hidden cables, which is perfect for small living room TV layout ideas.

Cons: Limited storage; requires precise positioning and strong wall support.

Tip: Choose a matte finish to reduce glare and fingerprints.

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2. Built-in Wall Niche

My Take: I once worked on a project where we carved out a niche for the TV during renovation—it became the natural centerpiece of the room.

Pros: Saves floor space; integrates seamlessly into the wall; can be paired with LED strip lighting for atmosphere.

Cons: Permanent structure; not easy to change TV position later.

In one case, combining it with minimalist living room storage solutions helped maximize the space even more.

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3. Gallery Wall with TV

My Take: Mixing art frames with the TV transforms it into part of the decor rather than a black rectangle.

Pros: Helps the TV blend in; adds personality; good for renters who want an easy update.

Cons: Can look busy if not carefully curated; requires balance between art sizes and screen size.

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4. Sliding Panel TV Cover

My Take: In one luxury apartment project, the TV was hidden behind wooden slat panels. Guests didn’t even realize there was a screen until it was revealed.

Pros: Keeps the living space looking polished; protects TV from dust; reduces visual clutter.

Cons: More costly; needs smooth sliding mechanism; might require custom carpentry.

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5. Corner TV Placement

My Take: This setup is often overlooked, but for awkward or narrow rooms, placing the TV in the corner can open up the layout.

Pros: Allows better furniture arrangement; perfect for smaller rooms; can reduce glare from windows.

Cons: May need a swivel mount; not great for large groups watching together.

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6. Media Wall with Fireplace

My Take: I designed a combined electric fireplace and TV wall for a client who wanted both warmth and entertainment in one focal point.

Pros: Maximizes focal impact; creates cozy atmosphere; efficient use of vertical space.

Cons: Heat management is crucial to protect electronics.

Adding wood accents for a warmer ambiance made the space feel even more inviting.

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7. Rotating TV Stand

My Take: I used this in an open-plan living and dining room—it allowed the TV to face either space.

Pros: Flexible viewing angles; practical for multi-use rooms; doesn’t require duplicate TVs.

Cons: Needs quality swivel hardware; limited choice of styles.

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8. Full-Length Storage with TV Space

My Take: Integrating the TV within a full-height wall unit adds massive storage while defining the room’s style.

Pros: Hides clutter; customizable design; blends open shelving with closed cabinets.

Cons: Can dominate the space if too bulky; installation cost varies.

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9. TV Above Sideboard Cabinet

My Take: I often recommend this to clients who want flexible decor below the TV.

Pros: Extra surface for decor or speakers; storage below; easy to change over time.

Cons: Works best in medium to large rooms; sideboard height must match eye level when seated.

In one project, pairing it with L-shaped seating for more conversation space completely changed the room feel.

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10. TV on Movable Cart

My Take: For renters or multi-use spaces, a TV cart is a surprisingly stylish and flexible choice.

Pros: Mobility; can wheel away for events; no wall drilling required.

Cons: Visible cables; less secure around kids or pets.

Tip: Choose a design with shelf space for players or consoles.

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Conclusion

Ultimately, a small living room doesn’t limit you—it challenges you to design smarter. As suggested by the American Society of Interior Designers, functionality should be balanced with aesthetics for the best results. Which of these living room TV setup ideas would you try in your space?

FAQ

1. What is the best living room TV setup for small spaces?

Floating TV walls or built-in niches are excellent for saving space while maintaining style.

2. How high should I mount my TV in the living room?

Generally, the center of the screen should be at eye level when seated—about 42 inches from the floor in most cases.

3. Can I put my TV above a fireplace?

Yes, but ensure proper ventilation and choose an electric or sealed gas fireplace to reduce heat impact on electronics.

4. How do I hide TV cables for a clean look?

Use cable channels, in-wall cable kits, or furniture that integrates cable management—like a media unit.

5. Is a corner TV setup a good idea?

Yes, especially for oddly shaped or small living rooms—it can make better use of space and viewing angles.

6. What’s the trend in living room TV setups now?

According to Houzz 2024 design trends, integrated media walls and multi-functional furniture are on the rise.

7. How much does a built-in TV wall cost?

Costs vary from $1,000 to $5,000+ depending on size, materials, and custom features.

8. Do movable TV carts look cheap?

Not necessarily—choosing a high-quality, minimalist design can make it look intentional, especially for flexible layouts.