Open Shelf Tv Stand

To measure a TV stand for a flatscreen requires knowing the flatscreen’s height, width, and depth. Once you know the accurate dimensions, it’s easy to select the best-fitting TV stand.

Manufacturers determine a flat screen’s width by measuring diagonally from corner to corner, regardless of the bevel. TV stands, on the other hand, are measured horizontally. This is why you need to measure the actual width of your flatscreen.

To determine your flatscreen’s width, measure from the left edge to the frame’s right edge. For height, measure from the bottom to the top.

The center of your flatscreen needs to be situated at or slightly below eye level to provide the optimal viewing angle. Take an additional measure of the distance from the floor to that optimal eye level. Now, subtract that number from the actual height of the flatscreen. The best height for your open shelf TV stand will be within an inch or two of that difference.

While flatscreens are thin, they still have depth, so measure from the front to the back. Include the base in this, as this may affect the flatscreen’s stability when placed on the stand.

Now that you know the exact measurements of your flatscreen match it up with a TV stand. The accepted practice is to choose a stand that extends at least 2” wider and deeper than your flatscreen. You may want to opt for an adjustable TV stand that allows you to change the height so you can match it with your ideal viewing angle.

The best materials for a TV stand are the most durable ones, including wood, metal,  and glass. Depending on the room’s design style, choose darker or lighter color materials that match or complement your existing decor.

For wood TV stands, you have several options. Solid hardwoods, such as maple or oak, create quality, attractive stands but can be more expensive. Stands made of plywood or MDF are highly stable options which is a critical feature in supporting all your TV and media equipment.

Metal TV stands, depending on the design, are durable and require little maintenance. The best ones are made of iron, heavy-gauge steel, or aluminum. Always check the weight capacity of these stands to ensure stability for your setup.

Tempered glass is also a viable material for TV stands. It’s usually combined with a wood or metal framing in an open shelf TV stand to add durability to the product.

An open-shelf TV stand can easily end up looking chaotic and cluttered when there’s too much decor on display. On the other hand, having only your media and TV equipment on your TV stand can make your space seem boring and stark, not to mention characterless.

When decorating an open shelf TV stand, the key is to place decor on both sides to create a balanced look. You can either go for matching decor items, such as lamps or potted plants, for symmetry or choose accent pieces in varying heights and sizes for more visual interest. For instance, you can put a tall vase with stems on one side and a set of candles, and a picture frame on the other side. For maximum effect, group your accessories in odd numbers, ideally 3 or 5.

Additionally, hanging artwork, frames, and other wall decors above and beside your open shelf TV stand can bring a personal touch to your TV area. Lastly, add a few chic baskets, books, and display objects to the shelves to complete the look.