Jake Stephens, Technical Director at HiiLIFE, shares his expert advice on building a media wall.

One of the most effective ways to update a room is by building a media wall. Not only does it create a sleek, contemporary look, but it also keeps all your technology neatly organised and integrated into the design.

Building a media wall is an excellent way to modernise a space while keeping technology neatly organised. While every home is unique and should be treated accordingly, there are several design elements worth considering.

As a general guideline, the entertainment screen should be approximately one-third of the distance between the seating area and the display. For most households, a screen size between 55 to 75 inches tends to strike the ideal balance between visibility and comfort.

When planning to mount a screen, it is important to carefully assess the wall’s strength and its ability to distribute weight. Large televisions and associated equipment require a sturdy support structure, such as reinforced plasterboard or a purpose-built stud wall. In many cases, mounting the screen on external or load-bearing walls is advisable, as these are typically more robust and capable of supporting significant weight.

Before beginning any installation, it is wise to weigh all equipment and consult a professional if there is any uncertainty about the wall’s strength. Using high-quality, adjustable mounting brackets such as those from BTECH or Peerless, provides both security and flexibility, making future servicing easier and allowing for optimal viewing angles through screen tilting.

“I’d recommend complementing a media wall’s display with a high-quality soundbar that provides an enhanced audio experience. Samsung products, including the Q-series cinematic soundbar with subwoofer, are a great option. Adding recessed LED lighting to built-in shelves also creates a stylish ambience, while installing hidden storage drawers with push-release mechanisms adds aesthetic functionality to the design"

To enhance the media wall’s functionality, pairing the display with a premium soundbar is recommended. Products like Samsung’s Q-series cinematic soundbar with subwoofer offer an elevated audio experience. Additionally, recessed LED lighting within built-in shelving can create a sophisticated atmosphere, while concealed storage drawers with push-release mechanisms add both utility and elegance.

Advance planning of the technology setup is critical to avoid expensive and disruptive retrofits later. It is essential to account for the number of devices intended for use such as gaming consoles and streaming boxes and to plan for the maximum number of HDMI ports that may be required. Running cables during the construction phase and allowing for extra connections ensures a clean, integrated finish without visible wires.

Power sockets should be installed in accessible locations to accommodate future adjustments or equipment upgrades. A ground-level cupboard is often more practical than placing sockets directly behind the media wall.

In recent designs, many homeowners are choosing to include colour-customisable electric fireplaces beneath the display for a sleek, contemporary appearance. However, careful attention must be paid to the fireplace’s heat output and the TV’s placement to prevent damage. A modern, glass-fronted electric fireplace with controlled heat dispersion is ideal, offering both safety and a luxurious visual element.

HiiLIFE is a Wentworth Lifestyle Partner