Be sure the piece you choose is suitably strong and durable. Though modern televisions are lightweight, theyre expensive; you dont want to trust a stand or cabinet that may not be sturdy enough. Look for dovetail joints and other earmarks of durability. Check the item in a store display and assure that its not wobbly when nudged. If you shop online, check the reviews and be sure there arent quality complaints.

The interior design rule is that the materials in a room should match. If you started with oak, stick with oak; if you started with steel, stick with steel. Color tones are important also. Different types of wood or metals are acceptable if theyre painted or stained the same color.

As cabinets have grown to accommodate larger televisions, space diminishes. Shop for one that will keep an “open” feel to the space. An armoire or cabinet will visually eat a lot more space than a table. Color is also important: dark will be more dramatic (particularly if the piece is large) so lighter is preferable.