A custom built-in media wall (often called a custom built-in media center or custom built-in entertainment center) is cabinetry designed to fit a specific wall and organize a TV, audio equipment, components, and storage—while creating a seamless built-in look. Media walls can be full-height feature walls or more compact entertainment centers, depending on the room and storage needs.

Common types of custom built-ins for living spaces include:

• Media walls and built-in entertainment centers
• Built-in bookcases and home libraries (see example: traditional DIY home library)
• Home offices with built-in desks and storage (see example: built-in desk makeover)
• Mudrooms with lockers, cubbies, and benches (see ideas: mudroom storage ideas)
• Storage for awkward spaces like alcoves, niches, and recessed areas

Yes. We offer both framed and frameless RTA cabinet boxes that can be used to build a custom built-in media wall or custom built-in entertainment center. Many contractors and DIYers use RTA cabinet boxes as the foundation, then add panels, trim, and shelving for a true built-in finish.

Helpful product links:

• RTA cabinet boxes
• Cabinet doors (for entertainment center fronts and side towers)
• Drawer boxes (for media storage and deep base drawers)
• Materials (to compare wood and finish-friendly options)
• Lead times

Both are great for a custom built-in media center. Framed cabinets include a face frame around the cabinet opening, while frameless (full-access) cabinets have a cleaner, more modern opening and often slightly more usable interior width—helpful for equipment storage.

Framed cabinets:

• Classic construction style and traditional look
• Pairs well with decorative trim and crown

Frameless cabinets:

• Clean lines for contemporary media walls
• Full-access openings can be helpful for AV gear

Start with wall width, ceiling height, TV size, and how you want the storage to function. A well-planned custom built-in entertainment center balances the TV zone with side storage so the wall feels symmetrical (or intentionally asymmetrical) and proportional to the room.

Planning checklist:

• Wall width + ceiling height: decide wall-to-wall or centered built-in
• TV size: allow space for trim, soundbar, and mounting access
• Depth needs: consoles/receivers may require more depth and airflow
• Storage mix: closed cabinets for clutter + open shelving for decor
• Constraints: outlets, vents, windows, baseboard, crown, or a recessed nook (see: recessed wall nook ideas)

A practical guideline is to place the TV so the center of the screen is close to seated eye level. In a custom built-in media center, TV height is also affected by base cabinet height, whether you’re using a countertop/top, and whether there’s a fireplace below.

Cable management is one of the main reasons people choose a custom built-in entertainment center. You can plan power, HDMI, speakers, and network routes so the wall stays clean—without exposed cords.

Common cable management options:

• Grommet holes and wire chases between cabinet bays
• Outlet placement behind the TV and inside base cabinets (by a licensed electrician)
• Dedicated equipment bay with access for swaps and upgrades
• Concealed raceways behind panels

If your custom built-in media wall will house receivers, game consoles, or cable boxes, ventilation matters. Heat buildup can reduce device life and cause performance issues.

Simple ventilation strategies:

• Leave airflow space behind equipment
• Use ventilated panels or grills where appropriate
• Choose shelving that allows air movement
• Add a low-profile fan system for enclosed bays

Material selection for a custom built-in media center depends on the finish you want and the durability you need. Painted media walls often use smooth, paint-friendly door options, while stained projects commonly use hardwoods or veneers. For more detail, see: materials and wood options.

Popular choices for media walls:

• Cabinet-grade plywood for strong, stable cabinet construction
• Paint-grade door options for a smooth painted finish
• Hardwood/veneer looks for warmer, furniture-style media centers
• Durable surface options where needed (thermofoil/laminate)

Door style drives the overall look of a custom built-in entertainment center. Shaker doors are a go-to for timeless structure, slab doors feel modern, and raised panel doors lean traditional.

Helpful links for selecting door fronts:

• Browse cabinet door styles
• Add drawer storage for media and accessories

Pricing depends on wall size, cabinet count, door style, finish, shelving, trim, and any specialty features (like glass doors, lighting, or a fireplace). The fastest way to get accurate numbers is to request a custom quote with your rough dimensions and inspiration.

Biggest cost drivers:

• Full-wall height and overall span
• Number of cabinets and drawers
• Finish choice (painted, stained, thermofoil, etc.)
• Panels, trim, crown, and scribe details
• Equipment bay requirements (depth + ventilation)

A custom built-in media center is worth it when you want clean cable management, real storage (not open clutter), and a wall that feels finished and architectural. Built-ins also help solve awkward layouts where freestanding furniture never looks quite right.

They’re especially worth it when you need:

• Closed storage for games, remotes, toys, and devices
• A tailored fit across a wide wall or into an alcove
• Balanced shelving for decor and display
• A coordinated look that matches nearby cabinetry or trim

Well-designed custom built-ins can add value by improving storage, function, and the “finished” feel of a room. Media walls often boost buyer appeal because they organize the entertainment zone and reduce visual clutter.

Timelines vary based on scope, finish, and shipping distance. To keep your schedule on track, share your deadline in the quote request and review current lead times here: lead times.

To speed things up:

• Upload inspiration photos or elevations early
• Confirm TV size, wall dimensions, and depth needs upfront
• Decide door style + finish before finalizing the layout

To quote a custom built-in media wall or entertainment center, we recommend sharing:

• Wall width and ceiling height
• TV size (diagonal) and mount type (flush, recessed, or articulating)
• Whether a fireplace is included
• Equipment depth needs (receiver, consoles, etc.)
• Zip code and timeline
• Photos or inspiration images

Yes—DIY custom built-in media centers are often built using RTA cabinet boxes, then finished with panels, trim, and shelving. Accurate measuring, careful leveling, and planning for out-of-square walls are the biggest success factors.

For assembly and installation reference, use the guide: CabinetNow Installation & Assembly Guide (PDF)

Yes. Many customers begin with rough dimensions and inspiration, then refine the layout. If you have elevations or drawings, upload them with your request. If you’re early-stage, share photos and measurements and we’ll help guide the next steps.

If your wall has niches, alcoves, or recessed areas, take a look at: recessed wall nook ideas.

Big-box retailers may offer stock or semi-custom cabinet lines, but a true custom built-in entertainment center—especially wall-to-wall feature walls, awkward layouts, and tailored equipment storage—typically requires made-to-order cabinetry components and a trim plan to finish the built-in look.

Most custom built-in media centers use a combination of cabinet boxes, doors, drawers, and finishing panels. Here are the most relevant links:

• RTA cabinet boxes
• Cabinet doors
• Drawer boxes
• Materials

Real-life projects are one of the best ways to plan a custom built-in entertainment center. Look for layouts that match your wall size, a door style you like, and a storage mix that fits how you actually use the room.

Helpful inspiration links from CabinetNow:

• Entertainment center example: Colorado entertainment center
• Bookcase/library example: DIY home library
• Desk/built-in example: built-in desk makeover
• Mudroom storage ideas: mudroom built-in ideas