Leaving the space under a wall-mounted TV empty is possible and can create a clean, modern look. It saves floor space, makes the room appear larger, and emphasizes a minimalist style. However, it can also look unfinished or waste potential storage opportunities if not styled thoughtfully.
Pros of Leaving Space Empty Under a Wall-Mounted TV
1. Creates a Clean and Minimalist Look
One of the biggest advantages is the uncluttered aesthetic. An empty wall area beneath the TV gives the room a sleek, modern, and spacious appearance. This design choice works well in contemporary living rooms where simplicity is key.
2. Maximizes Floor Space
By not placing furniture below, you free up floor space. This is particularly beneficial in smaller living rooms, apartments, or bedrooms where every inch matters. It allows for easy cleaning and even provides more play space for kids or pets.
3. Highlights the TV as a Focal Point
An open wall ensures that all attention is on the TV. If you want the television to be the centerpiece of your entertainment area, keeping the area below bare enhances focus and avoids visual distractions.
4. Flexible for Future Design Choices
Leaving the space empty gives you freedom to rearrange or add décor later. You’re not locked into a console or bulky piece of furniture, which makes redesigning the room much easier.
Cons of Leaving Space Empty Under a Wall-Mounted TV
1. Risk of Looking Unfinished
While minimalism is trendy, too much empty wall space can make the room feel cold or incomplete. Without thoughtful styling, the wall can appear bare and lacking character.
2. Wasted Storage Opportunity
TV stands, consoles, and cabinets provide valuable storage for remotes, media players, gaming consoles, or décor items. Skipping furniture under the TV might leave you searching for alternative storage solutions.
3. Visible Cords and Wiring
If cords aren’t properly concealed, they can dangle down the wall and ruin the clean look. Proper cable management or in-wall wiring is a must if you’re going with the empty-space design.
4. Lack of Balance in Room Design
In interior design, balance is important. A large TV floating above a blank space may throw off the room’s proportions, especially if the surrounding area has heavy furniture or busy décor.
Practical Styling Alternatives to Empty Space
If leaving the space completely empty doesn’t appeal to you, here are creative alternatives:
1. Low Console or Floating Cabinet
Installing a sleek TV console or floating cabinet provides hidden storage while maintaining a modern look. Brands like RealCozy offer stylish fireplace TV stands and entertainment furniture that add warmth, storage, and balance.
2. Decorative Shelving
Floating shelves below or around the TV can hold small décor, books, or speakers without overwhelming the wall. This is a great way to add personality while keeping things light.
3. Plants and Artwork
Tall plants, framed artwork, or decorative sculptures placed directly below the TV soften the empty space and add a touch of nature or creativity.
4. Fireplace TV Stand Combination
For those who want both functionality and style, pairing your wall-mounted TV with a fireplace stand or console creates a cozy, inviting entertainment area.
5. Accent Wall Treatment
Using materials like stone, shiplap, or bold paint beneath the TV adds texture and prevents the wall from feeling too bare while keeping furniture minimal.
Pros vs. Cons at a Glance
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Clean, modern aesthetic |
Can look unfinished |
|
Saves floor space |
Wastes potential storage |
|
Makes TV the focal point |
Exposed cords ruin look |
|
Flexible for future design |
May throw off room balance |
Conclusion
Leaving the space under a wall-mounted TV empty can work beautifully for those who appreciate a minimalist and airy design. However, it’s not the best choice for everyone. If you need storage, want more balance, or dislike the “unfinished” look, consider alternatives like floating cabinets, shelving, or stylish entertainment stands from trusted brands such as RealCozy. The key is finding the right balance between functionality and aesthetics for your living space.
If you’d like to see alternative ideas beyond a minimalist approach, check out our guide on what to do with the space under a wall-mounted TV.
FAQ: Leaving Space Empty Under a Wall-Mounted TV
1. Is it okay to leave the wall under a mounted TV empty?
Yes, it’s perfectly fine and often used for a modern, minimalist look.
2. What should I put under a wall-mounted TV instead of a console?
Options include floating shelves, cabinets, plants, or artwork.
3. Does leaving space under a TV make a room look bigger?
Yes, open floor space creates the illusion of a larger, airier room.
4. How do I hide cords with no console under the TV?
Use in-wall cable management kits or cord covers for a seamless look.
5. Should the TV always have furniture below it?
Not always—furniture is optional and depends on your storage and design needs.
