Let’s be honest—TVs are practical, but they’re not always pretty. A big black screen stuck on top of a plain cabinet isn’t exactly winning any interior design awards. But don’t worry—you can turn your TV cabinet into a stylish focal point without compromising function. Whether you’ve got a wall-mounted TV or a freestanding unit, these tips will help you style your TV cabinet like a pro.
Why Styling Your TV Cabinet Matters
It’s usually one of the first things people see in your living room. And with how often we binge-watch shows or host movie nights, the area around your TV deserves as much attention as your coffee table or sofa setup. A styled TV cabinet can tie your room together, soften the tech, and add balance to the space.
Start with the Cabinet Itself
If your TV cabinet’s outdated or cluttered, no amount of styling will fix it. Look for something that suits your room’s overall style—modern, coastal, Scandi, boho, or classic. Timber finishes add warmth, while white or matte black offers a minimalist edge. Bonus points for cabinets with hidden storage.
Keep It Clean and Low-Profile
Don’t overcrowd the top of your TV unit. The screen is already the focal point, so everything else should complement—not compete. Aim for a few key pieces placed intentionally, with empty space in between to let everything breathe.
Balance Both Sides
Symmetry is your friend, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. If you place a stack of books on one end, balance it out with a plant or vase on the other. The idea is to create visual weight on both sides, so it feels anchored and cohesive.
Add Greenery for Life and Texture
Plants bring instant softness to the hard lines of a TV. A trailing plant, like devil’s ivy or a string of pearls, works beautifully on one side of the cabinet. A small potted fiddle leaf or monstera adds height without overpowering the screen. Even dried florals or a faux plant can do the trick if you’re not great with watering.
Use Decorative Objects and Sculptural Pieces
Sculptures, ceramic vases, candles, or decorative bowls help bring personality to your cabinet. Choose a few items in varying heights and textures to create interest. Stick to a consistent colour palette to avoid visual chaos.
Stack and Layer Books
Books aren’t just for shelves—they’re perfect styling tools. Stack a couple of coffee table books or design mags and top them with a small ornament or candle. It creates levels and makes everything feel a bit more polished.
Think About Wall Styling Too
If your TV is wall-mounted, the styling doesn't stop at the cabinet. You can:
- Hang a gallery wall around the TV (just don’t overwhelm the screen)
- Add floating shelves above or beside the unit
- Use wall sconces or vertical frames to draw the eye outward
Add a Tray for Function and Style
Trays are great for grouping smaller items together—think remotes, candles, or coasters. It keeps things tidy and stylish at the same time. Choose a tray in timber, marble, rattan, or ceramic to match your vibe.
Hide the Tech Clutter
No one wants to see tangled cords, ugly modems, or too many remotes. Use cable covers, hide devices inside the cabinet, and consider a universal remote to clean up the look. A clutter-free surface makes a world of difference.
Use Lighting to Add Ambience
A small table lamp, LED strip lights behind the cabinet, or even a few pillar candles can help soften the space. Ambient lighting makes movie nights feel cosier and adds dimension to the overall setup.
Swap Decor Seasonally
Keep your styling fresh by rotating a few key pieces with the seasons. In summer, go for coastal tones and greenery. In winter, add candles, warm woods, and layered textures like wool or leather.
Leave Space for Negative Space
One of the biggest styling mistakes? Too much stuff. Negative space (aka empty space) is crucial to avoid visual clutter. Less is often more, especially when your TV is already a large visual element.
Don’t Forget the Floor Space
If your cabinet is raised off the ground, use the floor space below for a basket with throws or a low-profile ottoman. Just avoid turning it into a storage dump. Keep it tidy and intentional.
TV Cabinet Styling Recap:
- Start with a clean, quality cabinet
- Balance both ends with symmetry or visual weight
- Add greenery or florals for life and texture
- Layer books, candles and decorative objects
- Style the wall above or beside your TV
- Use trays for grouping and tidiness
- Hide cables and unnecessary clutter
- Introduce lighting for ambience
- Keep some space clear for breathing room
- Switch up styling with the seasons
Final Thoughts
Styling a TV cabinet is about blending form and function. You want your setup to look great while still being practical for everyday use. With a few thoughtful additions—some greenery, a decorative object or two, and clever balance—you can create a living room feature that’s both stylish and relaxed. Your telly might be the star, but your cabinet? That’s the stage that makes it shine.
