Practical layout, storage and lighting ideas for a bespoke media wall that suits your living room.
A media wall has become one of the most requested features in UK living rooms — and for good reason. Done well, it hides cables, adds storage, and turns a TV into a proper design feature instead of the room's focal point by accident. Here's what to think about before designing yours.
Before choosing a style, list what needs to live in or around the unit — TV, soundbar, games console, router, books, ornaments. This determines whether you need closed cabinetry, open shelving, or a mix of both, and it's the single biggest factor in getting a media wall that stays tidy rather than becoming a clutter magnet.
Full-height alcove units — cabinetry either side of a chimney breast or recess, with the TV mounted centrally. This is a classic, space-efficient layout for period homes.
Floating media wall — a slimline floating unit beneath a wall-mounted TV, with the cabinetry appearing to hover off the floor. This creates a lighter, more modern feel and makes cleaning underneath easier.
Fireplace-integrated media wall — built around an electric or bio-ethanol fire, combining the TV and fireplace into a single feature wall. This is currently one of the most popular requests we get.
A media wall that still has visible trailing cables loses most of its impact. Good bespoke units build in cable routing behind the panel and through the shelving, so everything from the TV to the console to the router stays completely hidden, with only a discreet access point for future changes.
LED strip lighting along shelf edges or behind the TV panel (bias lighting) adds a noticeably premium feel and reduces eye strain when watching TV in a dark room. It's a relatively small addition at the build stage but one of the details clients mention most once it's finished.
Matt painted MDF gives a clean, contemporary look and is easy to keep looking fresh. Wood veneer or slatted timber panelling adds warmth and texture, and pairs particularly well with a fireplace-integrated design. Mixing a matt panel with a textured slat section is a popular way to add visual interest without overcomplicating the design.