How to Add a Built-In Entertainment Center

How to Add a Built-In Entertainment Center

A built-in entertainment center transforms a TV wall from a functional necessity into a stunning architectural feature. Flanking cabinets, open shelves, and a dedicated TV niche create a cohesive, custom look that makes the whole room feel more intentional and high-end. Here's how to build and install one.

What You'll Need

Step 1: Plan the Design

Measure the wall and plan the layout. A classic built-in entertainment center has three zones: a central TV section flanked by two tower sections with shelves and cabinets. Decide on the TV niche dimensions (based on your TV size plus 4–6 inches on each side), the height of the lower cabinet section, and whether the upper section will be open shelves, closed cabinets, or a combination. Sketch the design and create a cut list.

Step 2: Plan for Wiring

Before building, plan your cable management. Use the stud finder to locate studs and any existing wiring in the wall. Plan where the TV power outlet will be (ideally inside the niche), where media components will sit, and how cables will route between them. Consider having an electrician add an outlet inside the niche if one doesn't exist.

Step 3: Build the Cabinet Boxes

Cut plywood or MDF panels for the sides, top, bottom, and back of each cabinet section using the SKIL miter saw. Assemble with Titebond wood glue and the brad nailer. Build the TV niche as a separate open box sized to your TV. Check all boxes for square before glue sets.

Step 4: Install the Boxes

Use the stud finder to locate studs. Position the lower cabinet sections first and secure to the wall with screws into studs. Use the laser level to ensure everything is perfectly level and plumb. Install the TV niche box centered on the wall at the correct viewing height (center of TV at eye level when seated, typically 42–48" from floor). Install upper sections on top of or above the lower sections.

Step 5: Add Doors, Drawers, and Shelves

Install cabinet doors with soft-close hinges. Install drawer boxes on ball-bearing drawer slides. Add fixed or adjustable shelves to the open sections. Install a media shelf inside the TV niche for streaming devices and cable boxes.

Step 6: Build and Attach the Face Frame

Build a face frame from 1x3 lumber that ties all the sections together visually. Attach with glue and the brad nailer. The face frame is what makes the individual boxes look like one cohesive built-in unit.

Step 7: Add Crown Molding and Base

Install crown molding at the top using flexible peel-and-stick molding trim or traditional molding cut with the miter saw. Add base molding at the bottom. These details are what make the entertainment center look truly custom.

Step 8: Fill, Caulk, and Paint

Fill all nail holes with BONCART wood filler. Caulk every gap where the unit meets the wall, ceiling, and floor with GE silicone caulk. Paint with semi-gloss white or your chosen color.

Pro Tips

  • Paint the back of the TV niche a dark color (charcoal or black) — it makes the TV disappear and the display items pop.
  • Add LED strip lighting inside the upper shelves for a dramatic, high-end effect.
  • Run all cables through the wall before installing the boxes — it's nearly impossible to do after.
  • Caulk every gap between the unit and the wall — this is what separates a DIY look from a professional one.
  • A built-in entertainment center is one of the highest-ROI home improvements for resale value.

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