Begone, basic entertainment centers! This isn’t just a place to hold your TV and keep wires out of sight. Today, homeowners want much more. They want happiness built-in!
We believe custom built-in entertainment centers should add beauty, style, and functionality to your space. This is the opportunity to showcase your favorite collectibles, latest electronics and provide an elegant display for books & artwork too.
Want to design a custom built-in entertainment center? Built-ins are one of our specialties! Scroll down for some ideas for your home from the Cabinet Chic.
Design Takeaways
- Create a list of items along with their dimensions, that you want to place in the entertainment center to ensure that there is enough shelf and cabinet space in your design.
- Consider integrating your TV into existing structures, like above the fireplace with a few built-in shelves.
- Entertainment centers should not be overly busy or feel heavy in your room.
- Incorporate millwork or other architectural features that are elsewhere in your home into your design.
- Think beyond the TV and use the space to store games, craft supplies, books, and more.
Listen Up: Consider Electronic Equipment
Electronics require ventilation and may have components or cords that you want to conceal. Built-in entertainment centers can be designed for both function and aesthetics.
Shelving can be customized to fit almost any size TV or equipment, and doors can be added to conceal clutter (or even the TV) and protect contents when not being used.
Media Equipment Storage Quick Tip:
Storage for TVs, DVRs, DVD players, and cable boxes should allow for proper ventilation. Never stack these components! Space them out on shelves a few inches apart so they will not get too hot.
If you plan to place these items inside cabinets, you may need to consider vents in the back to allow for airflow.
Create a Home Theater Experience
To create that coveted surround-sound effect, your room will need at least five speakers. Two or three of these speakers can be installed within the entertainment center depending on its size and the size of your room.
Speakers can be camouflaged behind a fabric screen or uniquely integrated into your home decor.
Display Photos and Books
Traditionally, open shelving is the best way to display books, photos, artwork, and pottery. For visual interest, try stacking books in small groups, and display your collectibles amongst them. Magazines can be stored in baskets on the lower shelves, and board games can be organized in the bottom cabinets.
Display Artwork and Collectibles
Storing and displaying collectibles can be a challenge as they can either create visual interest or create clutter.
Collectibles look best displayed in entertainment centers with open shelving or cabinets with glass doors. Integrated lighting can be added to create a focal point and really help to showcase your display pieces.
Add a Built-In Credenza
You don’t have to build a large entertainment center that takes up an entire wall. A simple credenza with cabinets and the TV mounted above can offer enough storage space and a streamlined look.
Add Character with a Built-In Library Ladder
If your built-in entertainment center houses your book collection, what better way to reach those books on the top shelf than with a library ladder?
P.S. The Cabinet Chic can design a luxe at-home library just for you!
Design a Custom Built-In Entertainment Center
Spend time relaxing with your favorite book or Netflix show with a custom-designed built-in entertainment center from our local craftsmen. We are all about a wow moment and a custom built-in shelving unit can be just that, every time you look at it. Plus, you get much-needed storage!
Ready to design a built-in entertainment center for your Tampa, FL area home? Call the Cabinet Chic today for a complimentary design consultation—813-876-6780!
