I decided that I wanted to move my TV (50" plasma) to over the fireplace. This was going to require a new A/V storage unit that would fit next to the fireplace.
I was originally various designs of inspired by built in cabinets flanking fireplaces. Going all out and constructing a full set of properly built wood built in cabinets would've been costly, time consuming, and quite frankly outside of my skill set. Enter Ikea.
I have never been a fan of the modern stereo cabinets or glass audio towers that don't seem to fit with the rest of a rooms decor so my criteria was a bit specific:
- proper depth for A/V receiver
- Glass door to keep equipment dust free
- Concealed storage for DVD's
- have the look of a substantial piece of furniture as opposed to a monolithic protrusion.
- Inexpensive
Matching cabinets help achieve a look similar to the built-in concept.
The are also easily moveable for cleaning and actually appear to fit the space better. A full set of built-ins may have been a bit imposing and too large for an otherwise modest living space.
It's a tight fit for the A/V receiver in regards to depth. I used a hole saw and a serious of specific cuts to allow for cable routing. It's still a bit of a rat's nest of wiring on the backside, but I plan on cleaning it up with a wiremate cable management box.
