Image: Glicks Furniture

Choosing the right entertainment unit is about more than simply finding a stand for your TV; it’s about creating balance, flow, and style in your living room. A unit that’s too small can feel lost, while one that’s oversized may overwhelm the space.

If you are hoping to strike the perfect harmony between form and function, simple guidelines can make all the difference. In this guide, you’ll discover how to measure, proportion, and style with confidence, so your entertainment unit not only fits your TV but also elevates your entire living room.

Why Size Matters for Your Entertainment Unit

The size of your entertainment unit sets the tone for your entire living room. A unit that’s too small can make your TV look unanchored, while one that’s too large risks overpowering the space.

If you are hoping to achieve balance, think of the unit as the “frame” that highlights your TV. The right proportion enhances viewing comfort, improves room flow, and ensures every piece of furniture works together harmoniously. For those who love a stylish yet functional home, getting the size right is the first step to creating a space that feels polished and inviting.

Measure Your TV and Living Room First

Before browsing styles and finishes, start with your tape measure. Measure the width of your TV not the diagonal screen size as this determines how wide your unit should be. Then, assess your living room space: note the available wall length, the distance from seating, and any architectural features such as windows or doors.

If you are hoping for a layout that feels effortless, accurate measurements prevent costly mistakes. When you’re unsure, mark the dimensions on the floor with painter’s tape to visualise how the unit will sit. This step gives you a solid foundation before shopping.

Proportion Guidelines: Matching TV to Unit

When it comes to choosing the right proportion, simple rules make the decision easy. Ideally, your entertainment unit should be at least 5–10 centimetres wider on each side of your TV. For example, a 55-inch TV often looks best on a unit around 130–150 centimetres wide.

This extra width frames the screen, giving it a balanced, intentional look. If you are hoping to achieve a clean, stylish effect, remember that the unit should support the TV visually rather than compete with it. Think of it as setting the stage: your TV is the star, but the unit completes the scene.

Considering Room Layout and FlowConsidering Room Layout and Flow

An entertainment unit isn’t just about your TV it needs to work with your entire living room layout. If you are hoping for a space that feels open and welcoming, think about how people move around the room. Leave enough clearance for walkways, doorways, or nearby furniture. When you’re unsure, aim for at least 50–60 centimetres of open space in key pathways.

This helps prevent your unit from feeling cramped or blocking natural flow. A well-sized piece not only houses your TV but also complements the rhythm of your room, creating a seamless and comfortable environment.

Style, Storage, and Practicality

Size is only one part of the equation; your entertainment unit also needs to work hard for your lifestyle. For those who love a clean, clutter-free look, consider units with closed storage to hide cables and devices. If you enjoy styling décor, opt for open shelving to display books, plants, or decorative pieces.

Cable management and ventilation are also key for keeping electronics safe and tidy. When you’re unsure, lean into versatile designs that offer a mix of both. By balancing style with everyday needs, you’ll create a unit that feels both beautiful and practical.

Small vs Large Spaces: Finding the Right Fit

Your living room size plays a big role in determining the perfect entertainment unit. In smaller apartments, low-line designs can create the illusion of more space while still providing storage.

For those with larger living rooms, a longer or taller unit helps anchor the area and prevent the TV wall from looking bare. If you are hoping to achieve balance, think about scale: the unit should complement your room without overwhelming it. When in doubt, keep proportions simple and neutral, then add personality with décor accents. This ensures your unit feels right-sized for any setting.

The Right Unit Transforms Your Space

When you choose the right size entertainment unit, you do more than house your TV; you set the stage for a room that feels stylish, balanced, and inviting. If you are hoping to create harmony, think of it as both a practical anchor and a design statement. When in doubt, invest in quality and keep proportions simple. The right piece won’t just fit, it will transform your living room into a space you truly love.