To have a millwork shop come it and custom fit built ins in the 2 spaces will be $$$$. The design of your fireplace surround and the details on the wall really don't lend themselves to adding built ins.

IMO placing that TV and speaker over the fireplace has kind of screwed up how very interesting the details of your fireplace were to begin with.

Are you open to alternate suggestions?

I don't have any ideas but I'm following along to hear ideas because I have the same set up. I'm guessing there is no other wall for your TV right? That is my dilemma :(

I agree Beverly - hate the big TV, but husband doesn't. The wall to the right is a huge wall of windows and if we put the TV on the opposite wall, we'll get glare (kitchen is to the back of the room). I'm definitely open to suggestions. (room will be different soon - have 2 chairs and sofa on order and curtains for that big window, this is temporary furnishings). Thank you.

The beam centered over the TV makes the TV look way too big. Ithink it needs to be lowered a couple of inches. In terms of the alcoves, I would not build anything left and right of the windows since that elevation already looks jammed with the big TV. Above and below the windows is a good place for built-ins and a good cabinetry designer can utilize factory made custom cabinetry for less than the cost of full custom millwork.

Beverly - where do you get something like that cabinet? And yes, if TV stays there needs to be lowered (I've asked, it's not an easy fix apparently).

If you do beverly idea..and I think that cabinet is awesome, have the curtains totally go wall to wall in the cubbys.

The cabinet is from Wayfair Kotter TV Stand

There's no such thing as too narrow when you come up with a custom design specifically tailored to your space! And yes, you can build above the windows, too.

Here are a few ideas to get you started. You could go more modern with floating shelves that create visual contrast with the fireplace like this...

Or you could go contemporary like this and incorporate a home bar into the design...

In terms of building around the windows, here's an example of a client who designed their home library around a doorframe...

Or you could always go the more traditional route and incorporate white melamine with LED spotlights to create display space for home decor.

No matter what your stylistic tastes are, the important thing to remember is that a custom project can fit any style and any organizational components to your space, and even match the rest of your home's decor!

We offer free in-home design consultations in case you're interested in collaborating with a designer who can walk you through all of your options.

There are codes governing how high you must hang your TV over a working fireplace. I'd do what Beverly says with it.

Sorry to the OP and not trying to hijack the thread. But krismays, do you mind sharing which building code and section that says that? I know there are electrical codes on where you can run wiring, but I don't believe there are mounting requirements for a TV. I do know there are suggestion, but that's just helping you not ruin your TV.

Everyone's local codes are different. The requirements for mounting TV has to do with working fireplaces and it is different for gas versus wood burning.

Edited: I think I'm confusing that with codes governing mantel hanging. Sorry!

So share one, I would like to read this code.

You want the mantel code, now?

Here is a copy of the National Building Code about this. I believe my local has stricter guidelines on this.

http://www.manteldepot.com/building_code.htm

I like adding the low cabinets on either side of the Fireplace. However, covering up half the window is not a better solution for placement of the TV. Especially the contrast of the light and the dark screen. All the attention in the room goes right there and IMHO it is not pleasing. I am in favor of keeping the TV over the FP. All the focus should be in that direction and perhaps the balance on either side with the addition of cabinets will help it not look too "heavy". I prefer a symmetrical look on the FP wall and I think we are getting used to this solution to keep the focus of the room in one place. FP=FocalPoint

what a beautiful room!, are there other views? could the tv go somewhere other than above the fireplace or block a window?

You're right krismays. It's the mantel that makes the difference. As long as there is a mantel of sufficient depth the TV can be hung at any height. I've run into this one but I don't remember if it was code or a manufacturer's spec. I would always abide by both although the inspector would have the final say.

So Design Details, per your statement. If there is no mantel, you cannot hang a TV over the fireplace?

TV really has to go over the mantel...maybe I can talk hubby into smaller one and lower it? I like the idea of low cabinets either side and will take the advice and not go up the walls with built-ins. Thanks everyone! (PS It's a gas fireplace, and I have no idea on codes!)

It is a pretty room even empty and it's going to look great. I would accept the TV over the mantle. Why fight that battle? I do like the white cabinets below the Windows but not with a big Tv covering your light. They will look nice with accessories of your choice and excellent storage.

creek05, that's essentially correct. The heat from the firebox would roast the TV. Electronics are killed by heat but if the TV is far enough above (say 30" or more) you might get away with it. If you're doing this type of installation I would recess the TV.

These are shallow and in a bedroom, but they are a favorite of mine. You could go deeper and get the same look.