Built-in TV problems - it looks unattractive

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Built-in TV problems - it looks unattractive

by Trista
(Virginia Beach, VA)

I like that there is a built in tv area, but it doesn't fit my tv, the black distracts from the "beachy colors," and I HATE the marble fireplace next to it!

I'm looking for a relatively inexpensive way to make the tv area look a little more finished and a way to make the fireplace less of an eyesore.

I'd like to maybe replace the face with a sandstone or some pretty tile, but what's the best way to change out that marble, or should I go over top of it?

Help! :)

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Built-in TV problems - it looks unattractive

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Jun 23, 2010
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Focal Point issues...
by: Charlotte

Hi Trista

Yes, I see your problem - the built in TV area - while clearly an excellent idea, is very imposing in the room.

It has become a focal point in its own right! Which is not what's wanted!

Firstly, you can easily tone down this effect by painting the TV alcove to match your walls...

...this way there isn't that great ugly black square being the first thing to catch your eye every time you walk into the room.

If you wanted an ultra streamlined look for your TV you could take advantage of the alcove and investigate some kind of cover-up for the TV when not in use...

...folding doors or something on a roller would seem the best option, if you can find something like this - as the usual doors folding out may interfere with TV viewing, depending on where you usually sit.

Again, try to keep anything like this in wall-color, or simple white/cream to match your other woodwork.

You could also paint the cupboard underneath in wall-color paint, if you also wanted to minimise and streamline this.

As far as the fireplace goes, if you dislike the marble, there are a few options you could take...

1) Replace with a whole new fire surround - this may involve chipping away at the wall either side of the fireplace to remove it - could get messy - and could be pricy!

2)Paint it!

To paint the fireplace you should carefully sand every inch of marble, (use 80 grit sandpaper) so that the paint will adhere. Check with your hand it all feels rough/dull - and no glossy patches remain.

Clean up with an acetone cleaner.

Then, apply a suitable primer, and wait for it to dry.

Paint over the top - a gloss or satin paint surface will give the best finish for a fireplace. Several coats may be needed.

Check your paints are fire-retardent/fireproof and suitable for use on a fireplace.

Really make sure that the sanding is done well - any glossy patches will see the paint start to peel, crack and slide off!

Comment continues below...

Jun 23, 2010
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Continues from above comment...
by: Charlotte

Continued from above....

3)Put a covering 'over the top'. You could create a 'sleeve' to go over the top of the existing fireplace, to become your new fireplace.

This should be made of fire retardent/fire proof MDF - and painted with fire retardent paint.

4)You can also tile over the fireplace - again this would require a thorough sanding of the marble, to ensure the adhesive and tiles have something to grip too - although the sanding would not need to be anywhere near so thorough as for the painting option.

Once you've sanded, this should be fairly straight forward.

...............

To detract attention towards the 'real' focal point of your room (your fireplace) and away from the TV alcove which is becoming the focal point, you need to emphasise and 'decorate' your fireplace.

This can be done with a large over-mantel mirror, or striking artwork positioned over the fireplace.

And/or with large vases with flowers, candlesticks, clock etc, even driftwood or other 'found' beach objects, positioned on the mantel.

Just something to make the fireplace space taller and more visually interesting than the TV beside it.

I hope these ideas help, Trista - you'll soon be on your way to a living area just as beautiful as your beach bedroom.

Very best wishes

Charlotte x

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Built-in TV problems - it looks unattractive

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Built-in TV problems - it looks unattractive