This formerly blank wall comes to life with a direct vent fireplace and TV cabinet. The simple, cottage-style details with tongue-and-groove paneling make this arrangement feel comfortable in this cozy living room space. By setting the television to the side (instead of over the fireplace, which is common), the TV is at a very comfortable viewing height.The arched fireplace surround is finished with river-washed noce travertine marble.The hearth is raised about 6" so the fire can be seen across the room from the kitchen. There is a drawer under the television for storing DVDs and videotapes.

Photography by Thomas Kuoh
Inspiration for a contemporary home design remodel in San Francisco

A system like this isn’t complete without some “goodies,” though, so we added in (at John’s request, of course) AppleTV, a Blu-ray player, a Karaoke system and a VHS player for older videotapes. Finally we installed two Sonos audio amplifiers to deliver high-quality sound to the whole-home audio system which would come next. All of the equipment was rack-mounted and installed out of sight.

Vant panels were added for sound insulation, mounted Roku TV offered a dynamic backdrop for videotaping, FLOR rug tiles provided warmth and ease to replace tiles if spills occur.