TV Wall Units: Style Meets Storage

By Devon Parks · September 29, 2026

Beyond the Floating Shelf

The TV is the living room's unavoidable focal point. A well-designed wall unit embraces the screen and builds storage and visual interest around it.

Built-In vs Modular

Built-in units are custom-fitted, painted to match, and look architectural. Cost: $2,000-$8,000. Modular systems (IKEA Besta, USM Haller) offer flexibility at lower cost and move with you.

Sizing the TV Opening

The opening should be 3-4 inches wider on each side and 4-6 inches taller than the screen for ventilation and breathing room. For a 65-inch TV (~57x33 inches), plan at least 63x39 inches.

Cable Management

In-wall conduit: Run a 2-inch PVC pipe inside the wall from TV to media cabinet.
Recessed outlets: Install behind the TV so plugs don't push the screen out.
Cabinet cutouts: Media cabinets need rear cutouts for cables and ventilation.

Styling Around the Screen

Mix open and closed storage. Closed cabinets hide electronics. Open shelves display books and objects. Asymmetry works: shelves on one side only prevent the showroom look.

Lighting

LED strips behind the TV reduce eye strain. Warm white (2700K) in a recessed channel creates a floating effect. Avoid spotlights directly above — reflections are distracting.