The challenge for this project was to build a built-in entertainment center to match the existing 50 year old paneling. The client wanted audio equipment, large flat panel TV and large storage drawers to store games, CDs, DVDs, blankets, etc. Behind the existing wall was a 6’ deep x 33” wide closet (how practical was that).  This actually presented a great opportunity to provide 24” deep drawers for storage and still providing access to the rear of the audio/visual equipment for connections and the same impractical storage space that existed before.

The 1^st challenge was that the 6’+ wall did not allow much space for the size of their 58” TV, components and very much storage.  We decided to lengthen the wall by about three and one half feet.  We needed more of the WP profile Knotty Cedar bead board. I was not able to find that to be available in cedar.  I would be able to get it in knotty pine but the modern stock was not even close to the same grade.  We were fortunate that the original builders had lined the inside of the closet with all the poorer quality stock.

Interesting to note, that in this 75 year old farm house,  recycled building materials was used throughout.  Actually three separate buildings were brought together, 120 old undersized beams were used in the basement and the unfinished boards from inside the closet were stained a different color and finished on the backside.

I had to practically use all the boards from the interior just to get enough decent stock for the extra 3 ½ feet.  With that resolved the next challenge was to finishing the wood to match the existing paneling’s color and warmth.  The existing was yellowed, scratched and flaking in areas.  With many samples and just plain trial and error, I was able to get a close match.  It’s painful to muddy up a beautiful finish so as to match the nearby existing wood but the result was effective.  Surround sound speakers are hidden behind the round wrought iron grills.

The clients and many of their friends can’t believe the work is not original but are baffled by the modern uses. This indicates the project was a huge success.

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