See the Full Dyed Concrete Countertop Guide
Exact forms, mix, dye ratios, curing, sanding, and sealing used on this project.
Open Countertop GuideOverview
The media wall absorbs the steel beam line and lally columns into a symmetrical carcass. Columns become part of the side towers. A hollow crown band aligns to the beam, creating a clean datum. All wiring rides inside dedicated low‑voltage chases. The electric fireplace anchors the center. The dyed concrete countertop is fully documented on a separate countertop page.
~12'
Overall Width
65–75"
TV Opening
1–1.5"
Conduit Size
0
Visible Wires
Before: open framing, beam, and posts set the constraints.
Carcass framed: level plinth, fireplace bay, and side towers share one front plane.
Column wrap integrates with the crown band so the beam visually disappears.
Materials & Tools
Framing: Kiln‑dried 2×4, 3/4" plywood (carcass decks, access cores), MDF for panels/face frames, 1/4" backers
Electrical: Recessed TV power box, duplexes in base bays, 15A dedicated fireplace circuit per manual
Low‑Voltage: ENT/PVC conduit 1–1.5", LV rings, brush plates, pull‑strings, Cat6, HDMI, optical
Audio: CL2‑rated 14/2 or 16/2, banana/keystone plates, option for in‑wall L/R
Fireplace: Electric insert with clearance spec; toe‑kick or grille for intake
Finish: Stone veneer/stacked tile, polymer‑modified adhesive, grout, primer/paint/caulk
Tools: Miter saw, pocket‑hole jig, nailer, laser/level, oscillating tool, hole saws, stud finder
*Costs vary by fireplace model, stone, and audio gear.
Detailed Build Sequence
1
Layout & Verify Structure
- Snap centerline on slab and ceiling. Laser the beam height; note any camber/deflection.
- Choose total width so TV opening centers between posts. Align crown band under the beam.
- Mock TV size (65–75") and viewing height (center ≈ 42–48" AFF) from seating position.
- Locate plumbing/HVAC/electrical conflicts. Mark no‑drill zones near beam/post connections.
2
Plinth & Carcass
- Plinth: 2×4 ladder, 16" o.c., 3/4" plywood deck. Shim dead‑level; anchor to slab where allowed.
- Carcass: 2× framing for towers and fireplace bay; sheath key faces with 3/4" plywood for screw holding.
- Keep the entire front plane co‑planar for trim and stone alignment; check with a long straightedge.
- Insulate exterior wall cavities; add vapor control as required by local code.
3
Beam & Column Wraps
- Columns: Build 3/4" plywood cores; attach MDF faces with rare‑earth magnets on cleats for tool‑free access.
- Beam band: Hollow crown box under the steel; maintain 1–2" service void; terminate into towers with a 1/4" shadow line.
- Add concealed access near each post and above/behind the fireplace for future service.
4
Low‑Voltage Chases
- Conduits (ENT/PVC 1–1.5"): TV → left base; TV → right base; optional TV → soundbar/device shelf.
- Use long‑sweep elbows; strap every 3–4 ft; avoid tight bends. Keep power and LV in separate cavities.
- Pull and label 50–75 ft strings. Terminate with LV rings and brush plates for clean exits.
5
Electrical & Fireplace Rough‑In
- Recessed TV power box at center. Duplexes in base bays for AVR/streamers; use surge protection.
- Fireplace: Provide dedicated 120V if required; follow all clearances; add toe‑kick/grille intake for airflow.
- Route LV away from heater discharge; use heat sleeves if proximity is unavoidable.
6
Face Frames, Panels & Access
- MDF face frames glued/pinned; removable panels via hidden screws or magnets for serviceability.
- Test removal after dry‑fit of stone, countertop, and TV to ensure future access is possible.
7
Countertop, Stone & Finish
- Install dyed concrete countertop — see the Countertop Guide for forming, dye, curing, sanding, and sealing.
- Set stacked stone/tile; keep mount area flat and plumb. Prime/paint all paint‑grade elements.
- Mount TV into framing; route/dress cables; commission fireplace; test all chases/outlets.
Concrete top installed. All device wiring routes below through chases.
Paint and fireplace test before final stone and plates.
Near‑final finish: stacked stone recess, integrated outlets, concealed chases.
Speaker & Device Prep
- Home‑run speaker wires to one base‑cabinet bay; terminate at a banana/keystone plate.
- L/C/R layout: L/R ~22–30° from center; tweeters at ear height from primary seating.
- Add a network jack for hard‑wired streaming; IR repeater if doors conceal gear.
- Pre‑wire subwoofer; use CL‑rated cable for in‑wall runs.
QC Checklist
- Front plane straight; reveals 1/8"–3/16" consistent.
- Power and LV in separate chases; strings labeled; 18–24" slack loops at ends.
- Fireplace clearances observed; intake/exhaust verified; cords out of heat path.
- Access panels removable post‑finish without damage.
- Countertop sealed and level; TV mount lagged to framing with correct hardware.
🛠️ Serviceability First
If you cannot reach it later, make it removable now. Magnet‑mounted column faces let you pop panels off for future wiring or post inspection.
Want This Built Into Your Plan?
We’ll design your basement layout with beam‑aware cabinetry, correct clearances, and wiring notes so installation is smooth.
Get Your Custom Basement PlanImportant Disclaimer
DIY projects carry risk. Verify local code requirements and consult licensed professionals where applicable. Proceed at your own discretion.