Media Wall with Fireplace Mistakes to Avoid

Media walls with fireplaces create stunning focal points — but only when they’re planned properly. Many issues we see come from avoidable mistakes around TV height, ventilation and layout. This guide highlights the most common pitfalls so you can plan with confidence. For broader guidance, see our media wall guide.

Planning mistakes
Fireplace layouts
TV height
UK guidance

Mistake 1: Mounting the TV too high

The most common mistake with fireplace media walls is positioning the TV too high to “fit everything in”. This often leads to uncomfortable viewing and neck strain.

Always set the TV height based on seated eye level first — then design the fireplace and cabinetry around it.

Mistake 2: Forgetting ventilation

Both electric fireplaces and AV equipment generate heat. Without proper ventilation, devices can overheat and reliability suffers over time.

Follow manufacturer clearance guidance
Avoid sealing devices into airtight cabinets
Plan airflow early, not after installation

Mistake 3: Building too tightly around current tech

TVs rarely get smaller. Designing a media wall that fits today’s screen perfectly often causes issues when upgrading later.

Allow breathing room around the TV and plan cable routes that support future changes.

Mistake 4: Poor cable and socket planning

Visible cables quickly undermine an otherwise clean design. This usually happens when device placement hasn’t been thought through.

List every device before finalising the layout
Ensure sockets remain accessible
Plan tidy cable routes without blocking airflow

Mistake 5: Choosing layout over comfort

It’s easy to design for photos rather than daily use. A layout that looks balanced can still feel awkward if storage, viewing angles or access are compromised.

Planning tip

Start with how you’ll use the room day to day, then refine the design. Our media wall with fireplace planning guide walks through this step by step.

Avoid mistakes with a made-to-measure solution

Explore our media walls with fireplaces — designed to your space, manufactured in the UK and backed by a 15-year guarantee.

For full planning, costs and design advice, see our media wall guide.