DIY Floating Entertainment Center with Built-In Fireplace and Hidden Storage
- Staff Desk
- 56 minutes ago
- 3 min read
If you’ve ever wanted a sleek, built-in entertainment wall but didn’t want to spend thousands on a custom unit, this project is a perfect inspiration. This builder created a 90-inch floating entertainment center with a built-in electric fireplace, hidden storage, and a floating mantle—all for a fraction of what a pre-made unit would cost.
Here’s a full breakdown of the materials, build process, and finishing details so you can create a similar setup in your own home.
Planning the Build
The goal was to design a clean, modern feature wall that could hold an 85-inch TV while keeping proportions balanced. The unit extends 14 inches from the wall and spans 90 inches across, leaving enough depth for the fireplace insert, framing, and hidden compartments.
The fireplace chosen was a 50-inch Westinghouse model, mainly because it integrates with Google Home, allowing hands-free control with simple voice commands.
Before building began, blue painter’s tape was used to map out the dimensions directly on the wall—a great way to visualize how the finished project will fit the space.
Materials and Tools
Lumber and Hardware
2x4 and 2x8 framing lumber
1x3 trim boards
1x8 pine boards for the mantle
Plywood for shelves and storage cubbies
Screws, nails, and wood glue
Caulk, wood filler, and backer rod
Finishes
BEHR Ultra Pure White paint
Pre-stain wood conditioner
Dark Walnut stain
Semi-gloss polyurethane topcoat
Tools
Miter saw
Nail gun
Drill and driver
Level
Oscillating multi-tool
Clamps and tape
Step 1: Framing the Structure
The base started with 2x4 and 2x8 framing secured directly into wall studs. Because the side framing didn’t land on studs, a 2x8 ledger board was first fastened to the wall for added support.
To keep everything aligned, the builder temporarily tacked pieces in place using a nail gun, then reinforced the structure with screws. A small gap—about a quarter inch—was left along the top edge to prevent the frame from pressing against the ceiling.
Step 2: Adding Hidden Storage
Behind each side of the unit, small cubby-style compartments were built for hiding devices like game consoles and media receivers. These were framed with 2x4s and topped with plywood.
While you could install sliders or pull-out trays, the hidden nature of these compartments made simple fixed shelves the easiest option.
Step 3: Installing Shiplap and Trim
Next came the decorative finish. The face of the unit was covered with shiplap panels for a clean, modern texture. The builder used 1x3 boards for corner trim instead of thin edge strips, matching other trim work in the home.
Tip: Shoot nails along the board edges so the holes are hidden beneath trim pieces later.
After all trim was attached, small gaps were filled with backer rod and caulk to create a seamless transition. Nail holes were covered using stainable wood filler, smoothed immediately—no sanding required.
Step 4: Painting the Unit
The entire entertainment wall was painted BEHR Ultra Pure White, which matched the home’s existing interior. The smooth matte finish emphasized the lines of the shiplap while keeping a bright, minimal look.
Step 5: Building the Floating Mantle
For the mantle above the fireplace, 1x8 pine boards were used to create a hollow box-style shelf.
Tips for a smooth result:
Apply pre-stain wood conditioner before staining to prevent uneven absorption.
Use plenty of painter’s tape when gluing and clamping the joints to keep everything tight.
Fill any small gaps with a mix of glue and fine sawdust for a natural look.
The final stain color was Dark Walnut, sealed with two coats of semi-gloss polyurethane for protection and shine.
To mount it, a 2x4 support cleat was fastened to the wall studs. The mantle slides over the cleat and secures with screws from the top for a clean, floating appearance.
Step 6: Mounting the TV and Sound System
The finished setup featured a TCL 2024 QM8 85-inch TV, which boasts IMAX certification and impressive 5,000-nit brightness.
For audio, the builder installed Sony’s Bravia Theater Bar 9, paired with the SW5 subwoofer and RS5 rear speakers for full surround sound.
Cables were neatly routed through the mantle using a magnet and pickup tool to guide them invisibly between the soundbar and TV.
Final Results
The completed entertainment wall looks sleek and high-end, combining function with design. It features:
A flush-mounted electric fireplace
Clean shiplap detailing
Hidden media storage
A floating stained mantle
Integrated lighting and sound system
The all-white finish and subtle wood accents give it a balanced, contemporary look that fits any modern living space.