If you’ve ever tried fitting a TV into a compact living room, you’ll know how challenging it can be. Apartments, townhouses and smaller homes can feel tight, yet a TV is still a central part of most living spaces.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the best TV sizes for small rooms, clever layout ideas to reduce clutter, and practical furniture tips to help you maximise every square metre.
Choosing the Right TV Size for Small Spaces
The key is choosing a screen size that suits your viewing distance. A TV that’s too big overwhelms the room, while a smaller screen helps maintain balance and flow.
Best TV Sizes for Compact Rooms
32–43 inch TVs
Ideal for rooms where the viewing distance is under 1.8 metres. Compact, clear and perfect for smaller living areas.
50–55 inch TVs
A great “middle ground” size when your sofa sits around 1.8–2.4 metres from the TV. Big enough for movie nights without overpowering the space.
Why Bigger Isn’t Always Better
Screens over 55 inches can feel disproportionate in a small room. Larger TVs also require you to sit further back for comfortable viewing — something that isn’t always possible when space is limited.
Maximising Floor Space
In a small room, every bit of floor space counts. That’s why wall-mounting the TV is one of the most effective ways to open up the room visually.
Why Wall Mounting Helps
- Clean, contemporary look: Mounting creates a streamlined appearance and helps the room feel more open.
- More storage options: With the TV off the floor, you can add shelving or a narrow console underneath without crowding the area.
Other Ways to Create Space
- Use floating shelves or narrow console tables to avoid bulky furniture.
- Choose TV stands that double as storage — drawers, shelves, or compartments can minimise clutter.
- Prefer not to mount your TV? A slimline TV stand works well. For example, the Tribesigns provides console tables with generous surface space and built-in shelving, helping keep everything neat.
TV Stands & Consoles for Small Spaces
A good TV stand does more than hold your TV — it helps organise and shape your room.
When working with limited space, choose pieces that offer storage without looking heavy or bulky.
Features to Look For
Compact & Low-Profile Designs
Sleek, minimal stands help keep the room feeling open. Many include built-in drawers or shelving for remotes, controllers, magazines and tech accessories.
Open Shelving
Ideal for a light, airy look. Console tables with open shelves make devices and décor accessible without visually weighing down the room.
Storage Ottomans
Great multi-purpose pieces. They offer hidden storage while functioning as a footrest or extra seating — perfect for small Aussie living rooms.
TV Placement for Small Living Rooms
Thoughtful TV placement ensures your space feels comfortable rather than cramped.
Best Placement Options
Against a Main Wall
The simplest and most space-efficient option. It keeps the layout clean and easy to navigate.
Corner Placement
A highly underrated choice for tight layouts. A corner TV can free up wall space and help create a more flexible seating arrangement.
Opposite the Seating Area
Whenever possible, place your primary seating opposite the TV. If that’s not achievable, angling the TV slightly can improve comfort and visibility.
Pro Tip:
Keep walkways clear. The TV shouldn’t block movement — even a narrow passage between the sofa and entertainment area can make a big difference.
Creative Alternatives: Going Screen-Free or Multi-Purpose
If you’re not committed to a traditional TV setup, there are creative alternatives that work brilliantly in small spaces.
Some people opt for portable projectors, mini home cinema devices, or simply stream content from a laptop when needed. This frees up wall space and keeps the living room feeling relaxed and flexible.
Design Tips for a Stylish Small Living Room With a TV
Gallery Wall Integration
Blend the TV into a gallery wall to keep it from becoming the sole focal point. Surround it with framed artwork, prints or photos to create a cohesive visual story.
Layered Soft Textures
Cushions, throws and blankets soften the clean lines of screens and modern furniture. They add warmth, comfort and colour — ideal for making small rooms feel inviting.
Add Greenery
Plants instantly bring life and softness into the room. Whether it’s a large floor plant or smaller indoor pots, greenery helps balance out the harder edges of electronics.
Style the TV Area Thoughtfully
Decorating around the TV with candles, books, ceramics or personal keepsakes helps integrate it naturally into the room. It becomes part of the décor rather than a dominating, standalone object.
