Bespoke media walls in Kingston upon Thames

Check that the dimensions on the drawing describe the finished TV opening. Boarding and finishes reduce the space within the frame, so a television that appears to fit during construction can become too tight. We allow for those layers when setting out the recess.

Use the full casing dimensions and the manufacturer's clearances, including room to fit and remove the screen. If you are ordering a replacement, compare its model specification with the finished opening before buying it. The same advertised screen size does not guarantee the same outer dimensions.

A replacement needs to fit the opening and work with the mounting and connections. In the completed installation described in our TV-upgrade article, the owner wanted a recess with room for a modest size increase. We left a visible allowance around the TV to help with the first part.

A future model still needs the hardware and cable checks. The extra space was never a promise that any larger television would work. If you cannot yet say how large you want to go, our usual advice is to mount in front of panelling and leave room between the neighbouring shelves.

Check the replacement TV against the bracket instructions before assuming the old bracket will do. The mounting-hole pattern, often called VESA, is one part. The weight rating and the screws required for the new model also matter, along with the support behind the bracket.

A pull-forward bracket needs enough movement to let you reach and remove the screen. Nearby shelves must not block it. Keep the television and bracket model details with your installation information; they make those checks easier when the time comes to change the TV.

A replacement TV might put its HDMI ports on the opposite side. Before fitting it, check that the cables reach the new sockets with room for the bracket to move. We plan accessible routes so a cable can be replaced instead of relying on one length concealed permanently inside the wall.

Our access panel can sit behind the TV or within the shelving, depending on the layout. We agree which side you can reach and keep the sockets and lighting power supply accessible. At handover, ask us to show you how to get to them and how the screen pulls forward.

Send the equipment model rather than a description such as games console. Its casing may fit a compartment while the plugs, specified ventilation space or access to the disc slot do not. We check those details before setting the internal dimensions.

If you intend to change that equipment soon, include the proposed model too. A deeper base cabinet can provide usable space without bringing the upper shelving forward by the same amount. Check the clear internal depth on the drawing; the overall depth includes the cabinet construction and finish.