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The project:
I transformed a plain living room wall into a custom built-in entertainment unit designed to become the focal point of our home. The project was completed to maximise storage, conceal electronics and create a timeless feature that looked as though it had always been part of the house. Using Kaboodle cabinetry as the foundation, I handcrafted custom shelving, VJ panelling, decorative mouldings and a solid timber benchtop to achieve a bespoke finish. The completed entertainment wall combines functionality, craftsmanship and thoughtful design while adding warmth and character to our family living space
- Materials:
Recycled hardwood pallet timber for benchtop
- Tools:
- Jigsaw
- Mitre Saw
- Drill
- Nailgun
- Square
- nails
- Hammers
- Screwdrivers
- Step 1:
Planned the design and measured the space
I carefully measured the wall and designed a custom built-in entertainment unit that would maximise storage, frame the television, conceal cables and create a seamless feature wall. The design also incorporated the existing wall vents so they blended naturally into the finished project. Planning and mapping it out gave me a good sense of how the custom built-in entertainment unit would feel.
- Step 2:
Installed the base cabinetry
Kaboodle base cabinets were assembled, levelled and securely fixed together to create a solid foundation. The layout was carefully planned to provide balanced storage while supporting the reclaimed timber benchtop.
- Step 3:
Built and installed the reclaimed timber benchtop
A reclaimed hardwood timber benchtop was constructed, finished and installed across the full length of the cabinetry, adding warmth and creating a striking contrast to the painted joinery. It was constructed from reclaimed harwood timber pallets.
- Step 4:
Constructed the custom framework
Using timber framing, I built the structure for the TV recess, shelving and upper cabinetry surrounds. Every section was measured and built to ensure the unit looked like it had always been part of the home.
- Step 5:
Installed VJ panelling and custom shelving
VJ panels were installed as the feature backing before constructing the display shelves around the television. The shelving was designed to showcase décor while maintaining a clean, symmetrical appearance.
- Step 6:
Added decorative mouldings and finishing details
Decorative trims, mouldings and custom edging were installed throughout the cabinetry to create a furniture-quality finish and elevate the project beyond a standard entertainment unit. Raw Kaboodle doors were ordered from the special orders desk at Bunnings. They were then customised with timber moulding.
- Step 7:
Prepared, painted and finished the joinery
All surfaces were filled, sanded, caulked and primed before being painted in a durable Dulux finish. Multiple coats were applied to achieve a smooth, professional result.
- Step 8:
Installed the television, styling and finishing touches
The television was wall-mounted with concealed cabling before the shelves were styled with family photographs and decorative pieces. The completed built-in entertainment wall transformed an unused wall into a timeless feature that provides practical storage while becoming the focal point of our living room.
