Media Storage

As the home of DVDs, video game consoles and other home electronics, your media storage needs to be plentiful. It should be able to house all your favorite movies and keep cords in check, as well as add a nice design element to your living room or home theater. Whether you need a small television stand, credenza or a full-blown home entertainment center with media towers, there are thousands of media storage options to choose from.

How big should my media console be?

The size of your media center is dictated by both the size of the space and your storage needs. If you are a movie buff with a large DVD collection, you will need a large home entertainment center with media storage towers and a tv console for DVD players and video game consoles. If you're working with a small space, you might only have room for a TV cart.

Regardless of space constraints and size preferences, you want to make sure that the total width of your television stand is greater than the total width of your TV. After all, if a television is hanging off the media console, someone might easily knock it over as they walk by. You'll also need to measure the space and find a unit that doesn't overwhelm the room or block doorways or walking paths.

What media stand material works for my space?

As you pick out your material, be sure to consider the style of the space and your overall durability requirements. Wood tends to be the reigning champion in terms of media storage material. It is sturdy and comes in many finishes — including walnut, ash, oak and cherry — to accommodate many styles. Veneered plywood is always a popular choice since it's more affordable, though the quality might not be up to par. Glass and plastic are sleeker options, while metal finishes look trendy while also ensuring durability. In the end, the material is also dictated by your family's needs; for example, glass and metal media consoles with sharp edges aren't ideal for small children.

Where should I place my TV stand?

The layout of your room and the placement of other furniture often determines where your entertainment center will go. Your sofa or sectional should ideally face your TV stand; after all, you want to be able to relax while watching television. As you're figuring out your space, measure all your furniture and create a mock layout to determine what goes where. If you have a more flexible floor plan, avoid placing your TV in an area with bad glare. During the day, try different parts of the room to determine optimal placement.