TV stands allow you to make visual and audio components stand out in the workplace. Having Not only do they enhance the appearance of the TVs, but stands keep the expensive equipment safe and secure. They are an essential part of protecting your investment.

Your workplace will determine the type of TV stand you purchase. If you run a children’s dentist office, for example, opt for a bright colored TV stand. If you're an architectural firm, choose corner TV stands with quality craftmanship. When buying TV stands:

1. Determine the mood and style you're hoping to achieve in your workplace.

2. Protect expensive equipment with TV stands made to withstand the weight.

3. Lift the television off the ground to add a “Wow” factor.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Consider your materials when choosing a TV stand

You can find TV stands that are made to fit any sort of television you have, from plasma TV stands to kid-friendly stands. You must first determine what type of TV you need to fit. Then, you'll need to decide what material you'd like the stand to be made of, such as wood or veneer.

I recommend: Choose LCD TV stands and wood TV stands from Stacks and Stacks. Some fold, some are corner TV stands and most contain cabinets for storage of audio components. TVStands.com sells close to 1,000 TV stands, including plasma TV stands. They are sleek and narrow, showing off the plasma TV perfectly.

Know your dimensions before you buy TV stands

If you have a 42 inch TV, get a TV stand that holds a 42 inch TV. You're putting your electronics in jeopardy if you put a large television on a stand made for a small one, as each self is made to hold a certain weight, such as 100 lbs. Check the maximum loading of the unit, along with the measurements before purchasing it.

I recommend: JCPenney sells contemporary TV stands and entertainment centers in distressed black finishes with contemporary brushed silver components. They offer stands that hold 42 inch TVs and others made for 60 inch TVs. Find swivel TV stands such as the Elite Industries EL-835 or EL-153; modern TV stands such as Tech Craft LCAV-23; or LCAV-32 and wood TV stands such as the Prepac BTV-0705 oak corner stand from The Simple TV Stand Store.

Opt for a TV lift instead of TV stand to add functionality to the office

Television lifts support your TV while maintaining much-needed office space. You can purchase TV stands with lifts built in, as well as free standing lifts you can put inside the case you already own. Lifts are perfect for an office environment because they allow the TV to become a showpiece in your waiting room, board room, lunch room or reception area.

I recommend: Shop at TV Stand Showcase for a television lift. It's an alternative to LCD TV stands because it maintains ultimate organization while showcasing a technologically-focused environment. Lifts are easy to install, too. Lift-Tech specializes in TV lifts. Choose a motorized lift that goes up and down or one that swivels side to side.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Measure the TV area in your office before purchasing a TV stand. This way, you won't buy one that's too large or too small for the space.