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Fireplace / Media Wall

Fireplace Surrounds and Media Wall Built-Ins in Chicago

A fireplace wall works best when everything — the surround, the shelving, the TV niche — is designed together. We build the whole wall as one integrated piece, not individual parts that have to be reconciled at installation.

What we build

  • Fireplace surrounds and custom mantels
  • Media walls with centered TV niches
  • Flanking floor-to-ceiling shelving and storage
  • Paneling and millwork framing around tile or stone surrounds
  • Built-ins around gas, electric, and wood-burning fireplaces

What to send us to get started

  • Fireplace dimensions and firebox type — gas insert, electric, wood burning
  • TV size and approximate mounting height
  • AV equipment and component storage needs
  • Wall dimensions

We coordinate with your tile or stone installer for the surround finish. AV rough-ins should be planned with your electrician before the wall is closed.

Common questions

Can you build around an existing fireplace?
Yes. We work around existing fireboxes all the time — gas inserts, electric units, and wood-burning fireplaces. We design the millwork around firebox clearance requirements and coordinate with the tile or stone installer for the surround finish.
How do you handle TV and AV integration?
We provide TV niche dimensions to your AV installer or electrician before the wall is closed. We design around the TV size and equipment you plan to use. Once the rough-in is done, we build the cabinetry around it.
Can you coordinate with the tile or stone installer for the surround?
Yes. We frequently work alongside tile and stone contractors on fireplace walls. We provide drawings and dimensions to make sure the tile surround fits within the millwork openings we have designed.
Do you build custom mantels?
Yes. Mantels are part of most fireplace wall projects. We design the mantel as part of the overall wall composition rather than as a separate piece added on top.
Can built-ins flank a fireplace without a media wall above?
Yes. If you want shelving and storage on both sides of a fireplace without a TV above, we build that configuration as well. Same approach — designed to read as one piece of the wall.

More general questions? See the FAQ page or reach out directly.

Have a project in mind?

Send drawings, photos of the space, inspiration images, or a rough description. We will tell you what we need and give you a realistic sense of scope and budget.

Contact New Era Woodworks