DIY Built In Entertainment Center

Shanna
by Shanna
3 Materials
$150
2 Days
Medium

I used a faux fireplace that my hubby built awhile ago and added billy bookcases from IKEA to create a built in entertainment center. I love the look of custom built in wall units. I started researching tips on how to make my own and realized that many of the tutorials I found used Ikea hacks. Mainly using the Billy bookcase. I went to Ikea and unfortunately they were sold out. I was looking for the tall, skinny ones. They were also sold out online. So I searched Facebook Marketplace. I found someone selling 2 (exactly what I was needing) and get this…they live 5 minutes from me. And the best part? They were already assembled. Score!! I didn’t even care that they were black since I was going to be painting them anyway. I lightly sanded them and then added a coat of primer. I wasn’t worried about the back inside because I planned on adding wainscoting there.

Once I got it cut down I placed the bookcases where I wanted them, which was a bit off the ground so I built a couple of boxes for the bookcases to sit on. I used 1 x 6 pieces of pine board and basically just made a box and then added a piece of plywood on top that I cut to fit. The bookcases fit perfectly on top with a enough space to add 1 x 4 trim around the edges.

I placed the bookcases where I wanted them, which was a bit off the ground so I built a couple of boxes for the bookcases to sit on. I used 1 x 6 pieces of pine board and basically just made a box and then added a piece of plywood on top that I cut to fit. The bookcases fit perfectly on top with a enough space to add 1 x 4 trim around the edges.

I then added 1 x 4 pieces of pine around the base of the bookcases and also added some new pieces of 1 x 3 trim to the fireplace. I also added decorative moulding around the boxes that the bookcases are sitting on. I just used what I had taken off the fireplace so that it all looked the same. The point was trying to make it look like one cohesive piece of furniture.

I went around and added pieces of trim on the corners and sides.

Once I got the top put back on and all the trim and moulding done I started painting the whole thing. I used Antique White from Glidden in a flat finish. I personally like using flat paint for furniture projects. It gives the piece more of a chalky finish. You can find this paint at Home Depot. It’s actually the paint and color I have used throughout my home. It’s the perfect creamy white.

I wanted something in the back that would look a little nicer than just the cardboard backing that was in the bookcases. I had some wainscot paneling on hand from a previous project so I just cut and pieced it in between the shelving. I also added 1 x 2 pieces on the sides. This did make the shelves more permanent so if you want adjustable shelving you won’t want to add these additional steps.

For the shelf above the TV I used a 1/2″ thick x 11 3/4″ deep piece of bullnose shelving from Home Depot. I fastened a piece of 1 x 2 on each bookcase for the shelf to sit on. I used the existing holes for the bookcase shelves to screw the pieces of 1 x 2 in.

I am so pleased with how this project turned out. It’s totally custom and fits the space we needed it in perfectly. And I did most of this by myself. I only had my hubby help me with a couple of cuts. And the total cost…$110!!

Here’s the cost breakdown and materials I used.

  • Ikea Billy bookcases – $50 (found on FB Marketplace)
  • 1 x 2 premium select pine (7 total) – $45
  • Bullnose shelving – $9
  • Caulking – $6 

The rest of the items I already on hand.

  • Decorative moulding
  • Wainscot paneling
  • 1 x 6 pine board
  • 1 x 4 pine board
  • 1 x 3 pine board
  • Primer
  • Paint
  • Fireplace surround and insert


Suggested materials:
  • Wood, caulking, finish nails, paint   (Home Depot)
  • Bookcases   (Ikea)
  • Fireplace Insert   (Touchstone Home)
Frequently asked questions
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  3 questions
  • Michelle Boydston Michelle Boydston on Oct 12, 2021

    I think you did an amazing job with your built ins look! You have great taste and mad skills with your woodwork and design esthetic! I curious so please pardon my love and collection of lanterns, but where did you find the gorgeous double door lanterns? I love lanterns as they just give everything such a warm and cozy feeling! Happy Fall and thank you for sharing your beautiful idea with everyone!

  • Lynn Lynn on Oct 12, 2021

    Soooooooooo cute

  • Donna Donna on Oct 17, 2021

    I have, thought of trying different wood projects, but have not. I can not pass this one up! I have, been looking for something, as amazing as this, for my eat-in kitchen area. Did you have help, from your husband or a friend? I only ask, because I’m wondering if there are parts of the project, which are a two person job. Thank you! 😊

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  • Monique Monique on Sep 23, 2023

    Amen to the sterile white especially on kitchen cabinets that have to be washed & kept clean practically every day!!! The oversized tv takes away from your time consuming work & beautiful job on your fireplace surround!! ☹️

  • Dl.5660408 Dl.5660408 on Sep 23, 2023

    Love it! White, purple, yellow, whatever floats your boat. Your building skills are amazing, and I like how your TV becomes part of the built in

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