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Living Rooms Fireplaces Design Dilemma

Cabinets either side of fireplace - new purchase

2 years ago

Newly purchased flat in Victorian conversion and looking to install cabinets either side of the fireplace in the living room - there will be a gap for a TV on one side. The aim is to create a little more storage space as well as adding character to the room. We haven’t moved in yet so it’s the perfect opportunity to plan out and budget for what is/isn’t possible with the space (I’d also like to convert it to a wood burner).

the depth is shallow either side - is this possible to do with that depth? Would it look strange to have the cabinets coming further into the room than the fireplace?
is this a worthwhile project? As you can see there are already bookshelves there but they feel like “dead space” and I don’t think the room feels homely and together
any ideas on cost for a project like this would be much appreciated as I’ve never taken on something like this and would love to do it but need to have a good idea what to budget for and what’s possible

I’ve attached a photo of the room itself (blue and white carpet), as well as some photos of what aesthetic I’m aiming for eventually!

Thanks!

Comments (3)

PRO
Stone River Interiors
2 years ago
Hi Natasha,

Firstly congratulations on your new home! An exciting time :)

I can't see the photo of the room itself - only the floorpan and the 2 inspiration images.

In answer to your questions,

The gaps either side of the fireplace are quite literally made for some beautiful cabinetry and shelving and it doesn't have to cost the earth either.

It absolutely won't look strange having the cabinets coming out more into the room (in fact in the first image you have shared they do in fact do this!)

I also think any kind of bespoke storage like this is always going to be a worthwhile project - like you say it will help to finish the room and make it look more cosy and together, whilst also providing you invaluable storage space.

In terms of pricing the best thing to do is to speak to a few local carpenters (3 I would say) and show them the picture - they should be able to give you a more accurate quote - you can save money by using MDF and also by painting it yourselves if you are up for that!

Hope that helps :)

Good luck!

Dani
Natasha White
Original Author
2 years ago
Thankyou so much for taking the time to message! It’s very exciting! Just wrapping my head around everything we want to do! I’ve added the photo of the room here! Any thoughts you have about it are welcomed!

I have seen projects discussing MDF vs wood - I was conscious of it being a cheaper finish and if you could tell the difference with MDF but it seems to be really popular! Would you recommend that route?

Thanks again for your thoughts! (Hope the picture shows up this time!
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Lovely room. Definitely needs something under the shelves. It's quite normal for cupboards to stick out of the alcove. If it's getting painted you may as well use mdf, but get something nice for the top. Your other option is to buy something readymade that fits 'painted sideboard' brings up quite a few options on ebay.

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