Project Solution

The fireplace is a solid structure consisting of fire-brick and mortar.  Since it was not an insert fireplace we were faced with providing a solution to hide wires without the option of going through the walls and attic and down with a space typically made available by an insert.  Additionally, we were faced with heat issues that would come from a built fire to the level of the flat-panel.

As a solution, a mantle and matching trim to the existing cabinets were built to create an area to shield the majority of heat from a fire as well as conceal all cabling, being careful to separate the power cables to one side while the HDMI, speaker, and other AV cables were distributed in the opposite direction.  The new HDTV flat-screen was then wall mounted just above the new mantle. The existing TV was removed with the area being covered with matching shelves.

Bookshelf speakers were utilized and blended into the shelf work to provide an equal left and right audio distribution with great clarity.  This was combined with the components and a sub-woofer being hid within the cabinets.

As a final item, the overall system was customized with a universal remote to allow ease of use through one button power on and off.  The remote control functions with an IR repeater system to control the hidden components.  Documentation of components, processes and manuals were provided.

Project Components

Project Before & After Images