The Ultimate TV Stand & Lowboard Guide for Modern Living Rooms
Complete guide to choosing and configuring TV stands and lowboards. Media integration, sizing, configuration ideas, and styling tips for modern living rooms.
The Ultimate TV Stand & Lowboard Guide for Modern Living Rooms
The TV stand has evolved from a simple box to an essential design element. A well-chosen lowboard not only supports your television but defines your living room's entire aesthetic. Here's everything you need to know about choosing and configuring the perfect media furniture.
What Is a Lowboard?
A lowboard is a low-profile cabinet, typically 35-50cm in height, designed primarily for media equipment and display. The term comes from German design tradition, where height-based furniture naming is common:
- Lowboard: 1 row high (35-40cm) — Media equipment, below-TV storage
- Sideboard: 2 rows high (70-80cm) — General storage at hip height
- Highboard: 3+ rows high (100cm+) — Tall storage reaching chest height
Why Modular Lowboards Excel
Perfect Media Integration
USM Haller and Klackjoy lowboards accommodate modern media needs:
- Cable management — Route cables behind back panels
- Ventilation — Open configurations prevent equipment overheating
- Flexibility — Reconfigure as your equipment changes
Scalable Width
Unlike fixed TV stands, modular lowboards expand to match your TV size:
| TV Size | Recommended Lowboard Width | |---------|---------------------------| | 43" | 2 columns (1.5m) | | 55" | 2-3 columns (1.5-2.3m) | | 65" | 3 columns (2.3m) | | 75"+ | 4 columns (3m) |
Configuration Ideas
The Minimalist Float
Configuration: 2 × 1 | Wall-mounted style | Graphite Black
Mount your TV above a sleek, unadorned lowboard. The minimal footprint creates the illusion of floating media.
Best for: Small apartments, minimalist interiors
The Media Hub
Configuration: 3 × 1 | With drop-down doors | Pure White
Generous width accommodates soundbar, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. Drop-down doors hide the inevitable cable mess.
Best for: Home entertainment enthusiasts, families
The Asymmetric Statement
Configuration: 3 × 1 + 1 × 2 side extension | Steel Blue
Break the horizontal line with a taller section for decorative objects or books. Creates visual interest while maximizing function.
Best for: Design-forward homes, collectors
The Full Wall
Configuration: 4 × 1 lowboard + 2 × 3 side towers | Anthracite Grey
For dedicated media rooms. The lowboard stretches wall-to-wall, flanked by tall storage units. A complete entertainment solution.
Best for: Home theaters, large living rooms
Technical Considerations
TV Mounting Options
On-stand mounting:
- Place TV directly on lowboard top surface
- Ensure lowboard depth accommodates TV base
- Standard 350mm depth works for most TVs up to 55"
Wall mounting above lowboard:
- Lowboard handles components only
- Cleaner look, no base visible
- More flexibility in lowboard positioning
Heat Management
Electronics generate heat. Ensure adequate ventilation:
- Avoid fully enclosed compartments for active equipment
- Leave back panels open or use ventilated versions
- Consider open shelf configurations for gaming consoles
Weight Capacity
Steel modular systems handle serious weight:
- Standard shelf: 50kg evenly distributed
- Reinforced configuration: 75kg+
- Always check specifications for heavy equipment
Styling Tips
Create Visual Balance
The lowboard should relate proportionally to your TV:
- Lowboard width = TV width + 20-40cm on each side
- Creates a grounded, intentional look
Add Warmth
Steel and glass can feel cold. Balance with:
- Wooden decorative objects
- Ceramic vases or sculptures
- Textile elements (runners, baskets)
Light Consider
Position lowboards away from direct sunlight:
- Prevents screen glare
- Protects equipment from heat
- Maintains color vibrancy of panels
Lowboard vs TV Stand: The Verdict
| Feature | Traditional TV Stand | Modular Lowboard | |---------|---------------------|------------------| | Width options | Fixed | Unlimited | | Future expansion | Buy new | Add modules | | Cable management | Often poor | Built-in solutions | | Aesthetic | Trend-dependent | Timeless | | Longevity | 5-10 years | 50+ years |
Ready to design your perfect lowboard? Launch the 3D Configurator and visualize your media setup.
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