How to style your entertainment unit

When it comes to styling a living room, one of the often neglected furniture items is the entertainment unit. Sure, it's generally purchased for practicality, but that doesn't mean it doesn't deserve dressing-up. Whether your entertainment unit is in a dedicated media room or within your living room, here’s how to make your movie and gaming centre more beautiful, organised and seamless with the rest of your decor.


 

Wall-mount your TV and free up your unit

Where possible, mounting your TV to the wall instead of resting it on your entertainment unit is the way to go. Not only does it lift the screen for optimum viewing, but it also saves you space and hides unsightly cords and cables. Think of the entertainment unit as a frame for your TV rather than a stand. Without having to house the TV, the entertainment unit is then freed up to hold other more decorative items such as vases, plants and photo frames of loved ones. 


 

Play with wall colour 

Once your TV is wall-mounted, consider painting that wall a dark colour so that the TV is camouflaged. Alternatively, contrast the TV’s darkness with a lighter soothing colour such as sage green, which interior designer Chris Carroll also approves of as he points out in his article, 12 stylish ideas for decorating around a TV set.

 

Image via Jessica Helgerson Interior Design, Photo by Lincoln Barbour

 

Create visual flow

For a less predictable layout, try placing your TV slightly off-centre and balance it with sculptural items that have height and presence. A statement table lamp, decorative vase and chunky candlesticks or candle holders will draw the eye and lengthen your display. 

 
 

Go for a symmetrical look

Make a statement with perfectly placed wall art or flanking bookcases surrounding your TV to add formality and a strong presence to your space. Lighten the look with vignettes of neatly stacked books and dainty floral arrangements. 

 
  

Soften sharp angles and create mood

A sculptural vase, table lamp or a curation of organically shaped ornaments and candles at either end of your entertainment unit will soften the harsh lines of both the TV and unit. Play with rounded shapes for smoother transitions and don't forget about styling any open shelving too. Come evening, turn off the room lights and create atmosphere with the glow of the lamp and candles. 

 

Image via Glitter Guide, photo by Anna Reynal

 

Add texture to the wall

Keeping the wall behind the TV bare will make it seem flat and draw all the attention to the black screen. Break up the empty space with circular shapes and tactile elements, such as clocks, wall hangings or even well-placed pendant lights. Peel and stick wallpaper can also be a great way to add texture to your wall without making a permanent decor choice.