What Can I Use Instead of a TV Stand? Smart Alternatives for Stylish Living

Modern living room with a walnut slatted floating TV console and matching coffee table, accented by warm LED lighting and decorative ceramics
Let’s face it—TV stands aren’t always the right fit. Maybe you just moved into a small studio, or perhaps your landlord won’t let you drill holes in the wall. Or maybe, you simply don’t want to deal with putting together another clunky piece of furniture. Whatever the reason, you’re not alone in wondering: What can I use instead of a TV stand?

The good news? You’ve got options. Whether you’re after minimalist design, more storage, kid-safe furniture, or budget-friendly ideas, there are plenty of creative ways to display your TV without relying on a traditional stand.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best alternatives to a TV stand—smart, stylish, and totally doable.


Why People Are Skipping the Traditional TV Stand

Before diving into alternatives, let’s talk about why so many people are looking for options:

  • Limited space: Small apartments, dorms, and shared rooms make it tough to fit in large furniture.
  • Rental restrictions: Can’t drill into the wall? Forget about floating shelves or wall-mounted TVs.
  • Aesthetic needs: Not every TV stand fits your décor, and mismatched furniture is a vibe killer.
  • Budget constraints: Not everyone wants to spend hundreds on something that only holds a screen.
  • Assembly stress: Some users just want ready-to-go, fully assembled solutions.

Sound familiar? If so, here are creative alternatives that meet all those needs.


Floating Shelves (If You Can Drill)

If you own your place or have permission to drill, wall-mounted floating shelves can provide a clean, modern look. They free up floor space and let you customize the height and storage layout beneath the TV. However, for renters, this may not be an option, so let’s talk ground-based alternatives next.


Media Units with Open and Closed Storage

A great in-between solution is a sleek media console that combines open shelves and drawers. These give you room for game consoles, décor, and remotes, without cluttering the look.

If you’re short on space but still want your entertainment setup to look polished, the  Modern Media Unit with Open Storage and 4 Drawers is an excellent choice. Its low profile is perfect for smaller living rooms or under-window setups, while the combo of open shelving and soft-close drawers gives you the flexibility to hide cables, display décor, and store media all in one place. Like all pieces from Povison, it comes fully assembled, which means no tools, no chaos—just instant elegance.

Contemporary TV stand with LED-lit open shelf and matte black drawers, placed beneath a mounted flat-screen TV in a dark wood-accented room


Dressers, Sideboards, or Buffets

Many users on forums like Reddit and Quora report repurposing an old dresser or buffet cabinet as a TV stand. These pieces usually offer generous storage and a flat, sturdy surface—ideal for holding a screen, soundbar, and more. Plus, upcycling an existing item can save both money and resources.

Tip: Place rubber grip pads underneath the TV base to prevent sliding.


Floating TV Cabinets (No Legs, No Mess)

Want that clean look without floor clutter? A floating TV cabinet offers elegance and function, especially in modern or minimalist spaces. These mount directly to the wall (if allowed), keeping cables hidden and drawers accessible.

Looking to create that elevated, minimalist vibe without cluttering your floor? The Walnut Floating TV Stand with Drawers offers a designer finish for modern homes. Ideal for wall-mounted TVs in open-concept spaces, this piece keeps essentials tucked neatly inside four drawers. It’s especially great for families who want to keep cables out of reach or pet owners who want to eliminate floor obstacles. Best of all, it arrives fully assembled—no drill drama, no hardware confusion, just plug-and-play sophistication from Povison.

Side view of a mid-century style floating TV console with vertical slatted doors, wall-mounted under framed art and softly lit by adjustable LED lights


Ottomans and Benches

If your setup is temporary or you prefer a laid-back vibe, a wide bench or ottoman can work surprisingly well. These can hold the TV, store blankets or media gear inside, and be easily moved around.
Perfect for short-term rentals, Airbnb hosts, or flexible living arrangements.


Bookcases or Cube Organizers

Modular cube storage systems (like IKEA Kallax) are great for DIY setups. They hold a TV on top and offer plenty of cubbies for baskets, books, or electronics underneath.

Just make sure to anchor any tall units to the wall if children or pets are around.


Trunks, Chests, or Repurposed Vintage Pieces

For a unique look, try a vintage trunk, old chest, or even an antique coffee table. These options are especially popular with those into boho or eclectic décor.

Bonus: They’re conversation starters and double as storage.


For Families: Safety Comes First

If you’ve got kids or pets at home, stability matters. Low-profile furniture with a wide base is much harder to knock over than a tall TV stand with narrow legs.

This is also why fully assembled options from Povison are ideal: you don’t risk poor self-assembly weakening the structure.


When Time and Sanity Matter: Go Fully Assembled

Let’s be honest—nobody enjoys putting together furniture with 100 screws and a missing Allen wrench. That’s why Povison, the world’s best fully assembled furniture brand, has become a favorite among modern homeowners. Their designs are ready to use straight out of the box, saving time, energy, and potential frustration.


Make the Smart Switch with Povison

You don’t need a traditional TV stand to build a beautiful, functional living room. Whether you’re trying to save space, reduce clutter, or add a modern touch, alternatives like media units, repurposed furniture, or floating cabinets can elevate your setup.

So why settle? Explore Povison’s range of fully assembled solutions that blend utility with style. From clean-lined floating designs to low-slung storage masterpieces, you’ll find something that fits your home—and your life.

👉 Visit Povison to find the perfect TV stand alternative and enjoy stress-free furniture that’s ready when you are.


🙋‍♀️ FAQ: TV Stand Alternatives

❓Can I put a TV on a dresser?

Yes! A dresser can be a great alternative to a TV stand. Just ensure it’s the right height and stable enough for your TV’s size. Bonus: you get plenty of drawer storage for remotes, wires, or even clothing in studio setups.

❓What can I use as a temporary TV stand?

Sturdy benches, ottomans, or even moving boxes covered with a throw blanket can serve as temporary TV stands. Ideal for short-term rentals or college dorms.

❓Are floating TV stands safe for renters?

Floating TV stands typically require wall drilling, which may not be allowed in rental properties. For renters, opt for low-profile media consoles or freestanding alternatives that don’t require mounting.

❓Can a TV sit on a coffee table?

If the coffee table is wide, low, and stable—yes, especially for smaller TVs. However, it may not offer the best viewing height and can clutter your space unless carefully styled.

By Jenny Smith

Jenny Smith, the senior editor of Povison, enjoys observing the things about home improvement and furniture decoration. If you have any idea, contact her for further discussing.

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