Modern TV Marries a Vintage Mantel

If I were to ask, "What's the most unattractive thing in the room"? Anyone that loves to decorate would most likely answer, "the television". Yes, they may be functional and entertaining, but warm and charming they are not.

I love what was on the DIY Network when I snapped this pic!

Our common desire to hide the TV has created quite a market. There are loads of clever ideas for concealment ranging from wardrobes to custom built-ins. For the new flat screens, you can choose from a variety of cabinets with hydraulic lifts, as well as custom built mantels. They are wonderful indeed, but the price tags are quite hefty.

Photo above: Apartment Therapy

Last month, I ran across a cool idea using a fireplace mantel on Apartment Therapy. The design was pretty, but the height wasn't practical for us.

We are in the midst of home renovations and have a fireplace in the master bedroom that I thought would be a perfect location for the TV, but how?

And then I stumbled across an antique mantel top that was missing the mirror at a flea market. I thought the opening for the missing mirror would be a great place for the TV. Mind you, I had no measurements for our existing mantel, but I eyeballed it and it looked like it might work. The nicest thing about the top? I snagged it for $65!!

I couldn't have found a better match with a map! These two look as if they were separated at birth!! The fact that the size and color was a close match, greatly simplified this project. Both the base and the top had shelves, but I thought it actually added interest so I let it be.

This was definitely one of the easiest tasks we've ever done. A little black paint on the wall (to camouflage the opening behind the set), running the cable and electric cords behind the mantel base, attaching the top and installing a wall bracket to hang the TV. I wish all our projects were this easy-peezie! !
Hubby and I were both pleased with the finished result. I love the look and he likes the comfy height for watching TV while in bed. It's also high enough for me to sit and read without obstructing his view, lessening his use for the phrase, "You make a better door than a window". It's just perfect for our use!

I'm still playing with the decor and think I may want to paint it white......but, I'll sit with that notion for a bit. Either way, I'm thrilled!

P.S. During this project, we made an exciting discovery in the attic that I'm dying to share with you!! I'll post about it in a couple days.....it's wonderful!