5 Simple TV Unit Design Ideas for Hall (2020-inspired): Small spaces spark big creativity—my 5 proven TV unit ideas with real pros, cons, costs, and expert-backed tips

As a senior interior designer, I’ve redesigned dozens of living rooms where the TV wall sets the tone. The current interior design trend is clean-lined storage, flexible wall systems, and warm textures—perfect for small halls. Small space truly sparks big creativity, so I’m sharing 5 simple TV unit design ideas, blending my own project lessons with expert data and 2020-inspired minimalist aesthetics. You’ll see what works, what doesn’t, and how to get a polished look without overspending. And if you love L 型布局释放更多台面空间, these ideas will map beautifully into your hall.

1) Minimal floating shelf TV wall

My Take: I first tried a floating shelf TV wall in a 2020 micro-apartment where the hall was barely 2.8 meters wide. The slim shelves visually lightened the wall, and a concealed cable channel kept it crisp. Clients loved how it felt airier than bulky cabinets.

Pros: Minimal floating units reduce visual clutter and emphasize negative space—ideal for small hall TV units. Long-tail win: “simple tv unit design for hall” often benefits from wall-mounted shelves that free floor space. According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s storage guidelines, keeping frequently used media items within arm’s reach height improves daily ergonomics.

Cons: Limited closed storage means you’ll need disciplined cable management. If you own retro consoles or a soundbar with deep dimensions, slim shelves can be tight. Dust finds its way on open surfaces—weekly swipes are inevitable.

Tips / Cost: Choose shelves 25–30 cm deep to fit streaming boxes and remotes. Use a paintable cord cover for clean lines. Budget-wise, a basic setup can be done under $250; premium oak veneer pushes to $500–$800.

save pin

save pin

2) Low, long media bench with wall grid

My Take: In a rental-friendly 2020 refresh, I paired a low, long bench (drawers) with a simple wall grid of frames above the TV. It kept sightlines open while adding character. The bench provided discreet storage for games and a small subwoofer.

Pros: A long bench stabilizes the composition and doubles as storage—great for “simple hall tv unit designs”. The wall grid adds personality through symmetry, and you can swap art over time. Research from the American Society of Interior Designers notes that balanced compositions improve perceived order, reducing visual stress.

Cons: If your hall is narrow, a deep bench (over 45 cm) can eat into circulation. The grid requires careful spacing; misaligned frames can look busy. Heavy TVs may need a central support to prevent sagging over time.

Tips / Cost: Target 180–240 cm length for small-to-medium halls. Keep frame spacing consistent (e.g., 6–8 cm). Use soft-close drawers to minimize noise. With a DIY plywood core and laminate, expect $400–$900; solid wood will be higher.

At this point, if you want to plan dimensions precisely, try mapping your wall with glass backsplash makes kitchen more airy; a precise 3D layout helps you avoid depth mistakes and power outlet overlaps.

save pin

save pin

3) Slim built-in with vertical slat accents

My Take: I love adding vertical slats beside the TV as a subtle texture—especially in 2020’s warm minimal trend. In a compact hall, a slim built-in (30–35 cm deep) with a slat screen hides a router and small speakers while adding a crafted feel.

Pros: Vertical lines draw the eye upward, making the wall feel taller—perfect for small halls. A slatted door provides ventilation for electronics, aligning with the long-tail need for “simple TV unit for hall with airflow”. Studies on human factors indicate ventilated enclosures reduce device heat buildup, prolonging lifespan (IEEE consumer electronics proceedings).

Cons: Custom slat work can be pricier than flat panels. Dust sneaks into gaps; keep a low-profile brush handy. If the slats are too dark, they can overpower a tiny room—choose medium oak or ash for balance.

Tips / Cost: Combine closed cabinets below with a slatted tower on one side. Use acoustic fabric behind slats to soften sound reflections. Expect $900–$1,800 depending on wood species and finish.

save pin

save pin

4) Wall-mounted console with cable chase and LED wash

My Take: In my own home, a wall-mounted console plus a rear cable chase made the TV wall feel seamless. I added a soft LED wall-wash above and below; in the evening it turns the hall into a cozy lounge without the glare of overhead lights.

Pros: Cable chases keep “simple tv unit design for hall” looking clean—no spaghetti wires. LED wall-wash improves ambient lighting and helps reduce eye strain. The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) recommends layered lighting for visual comfort; a gentle backlight helps balance screen contrast.

Cons: Poorly placed LEDs can create hotspots or glare on glossy paint. If your console is too high, the floating effect feels awkward; stick to 30–45 cm high. Wall-mounting demands solid studs—hollow walls need anchors.

Tips / Cost: Choose high-CRI LED strips (90+) for natural color. Route a cable chase vertically, then horizontally behind the console. A quality setup costs $250–$600; add $150–$300 for electrician support.

For layout variations, it helps to preview options with minimalist kitchen storage design—yes, even kitchen planners visualize circulation and heights that translate to living rooms.

save pin

save pin

5) Modular cubes and open shelves (mix-and-match)

My Take: For renters or budget-conscious projects, modular cubes are the most flexible approach. In a 2020 student apartment, we built a TV setup using 30 cm cubes, staggered to frame the screen, and added two open shelves for plants and books.

Pros: Modular systems adapt as your needs change—ideal for “simple hall tv unit ideas for small spaces.” They are easy to assemble, swap, or expand. Keeping some open shelves ensures decor breathes, and it’s a friendly look for tiny halls.

Cons: Too many cubes can look busy; limit colors to 2–3. Budget units may sag under heavier amps. Cable routing is trickier with open modules—use adhesive cord clips along the rear edges.

Tips / Cost: Start with 6–8 cubes plus 2 shelves; style with repeated materials (oak, matte white) for cohesion. Add a slim soundbar shelf below the TV. Typical cost: $200–$600; higher for premium finishes and doors.

When you’re 80% done and want a final polish, preview the wall with wood accents for cozy atmosphere; AI visuals can help refine materials and lighting balance before you commit.

save pin

save pin

Summary

Small kitchens taught me this, and it’s equally true for halls: smaller footprints demand smarter design, not limitations. The core idea behind a simple tv unit design for hall is clarity—clean lines, controlled storage, and thoughtful lighting. From floating shelves to modular cubes, choose the system that supports your habits and media gear, then layer texture and warm tones. ASID’s guidance on balanced compositions and IES’s lighting recommendations are evergreen—combine them and your TV wall will feel calm, personal, and future-proof. Which of these five ideas are you most excited to try at home?

save pin

FAQ

1) What is the best height for a simple TV unit in a small hall?

For seated viewing, center of the screen at eye level—typically 100–110 cm from floor to screen center. Keep consoles at 30–45 cm high for a comfortable floating look.

2) How deep should shelves or consoles be?

For most streaming boxes and remotes, 25–35 cm depth works well. If you have large receivers, go 40–45 cm and add ventilation for safe heat dispersion.

3) What lighting works best behind a TV?

Soft LED bias lighting improves contrast and reduces eye strain. The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) recommends layered lighting; bias light is a low-glare option that balances the screen.

4) How do I hide cables in a simple TV unit design for hall?

Use a wall cable chase and adhesive cord clips behind shelves. Plan power and data outlets directly behind the TV to avoid exposed wires.

5) Can modular cubes support heavy audio equipment?

Yes, if the cubes have solid tops and are rated for load. Place heavier components on lower cubes and anchor the stack for stability.

6) Are floating shelves safe for larger TVs?

Mount the TV on a wall bracket fixed to studs; floating shelves support accessories, not the TV. For plasterboard walls, use appropriate anchors and avoid overloading.

7) What finishes look timeless in a small hall TV unit?

Matte white, light oak, and warm gray feel calm and modern. Combine wood accents with simple lines to keep the space airy.

8) Where can I visualize a simple tv unit design for hall before building?

A 3D planner helps you test lengths, depths, and lighting. If you need a quick mockup, try a free layout tool to preview scale and cable paths.

save pin