DIY Fireplace Feature Wall with Driftwood Mantel

Coastal Reno - Driftwood mantel
Custom Driftwood Mantel

Coastal Vibe on a Budget: DIY Electric Fireplace Feature Wall with Driftwood Mantel

If you’re looking to add a cozy, coastal vibe to your living room, a DIY electric fireplace feature wall is the perfect project. After receiving almost $10,000 quote for a gas fireplace insert, we decided to go the more affordable route with an electric fireplace to provide the ambiance and living room focal point we were looking for. This DIY-friendly, budget-conscious solution combines sleek design, functionality, and a warm beachy feel without breaking the bank. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your own beautiful feature wall.

Step-by-Step Guide for a DIY Electric Fireplace Feature Wall:

Step 1/ Plan Layout and Measure for Fireplace and Insert

Start by planning the layout based on your space. We were working with a corner, but you may have a straight wall. Measure space for the electric fireplace, TV, and hidden storage. Ensure there’s enough room between the fireplace and TV for optimal viewing and leave space if you want to incorporate a mantel. 

Products we used:

Step 2/ Electrical Setup

As part of your planning, be sure to check that you have the necessary electrical sources. A dedicated circuit for the electric fireplace is recommended, along with separate power sources for your TV, internet, and media components to avoid overload.

Step 3/ Frame the Wall

Frame out the wall, creating openings based on the size of the fireplace, TV & mount, and hidden storage box behind the TV. Be sure to add supports for the mantel to securely attach it later.

Materials:

  • 2x4s
  • Sheet of furniture grade plywood – cut 5 pieces to size. We built a 16×20 box 
  • 3/4 Plywood cut to size for mantel attachment – we didn’t know what type of mantel so we wanted plenty of space to securely attach and bear weight 
  • Wire plate cover from Home Depot to cleanly pull electrical stripe and internet into hidden storage

Step 4/ Finish the Feature Wall: Install Shiplap and Paint

This wall finish is where you can really add your desired style – you can go for a plastered drywall feel, add in some beautiful tiles or add a natural wood or pop of wallpaper. We decided to cover our framed wall with shiplap for a coastal touch. We also went this route as it’s a fast installation by sampling pin nailing the shiplap planks up and a few coats of white paint for a clean, modern look. 

Materials we use from Home Depot: 

  • 15 Shiplap planks from Home Depot
  • 1 piece of baseboard trim 
  • White paint 

Step 5/ Install Fireplace, TV, and Mantel

Install the electric fireplace insert, mount the TV, and attach mantel. We had a really cool piece of driftwood that we have used through the years as a shelf and we’re thilled that the size was a perfect fit to become our driftwood mantel. 

Final Thoughts: DIY Fireplace Feature Wall

We love our beautiful, coastal-inspired living room feature wall with an electric fireplace, driftwood mantel, and hidden storage. This DIY project not only saved us thousands of dollars compared to a gas insert, but it also adds warmth, style, and practicality to our living room. 

Ready to elevate your space? Hopefully this DIY electric fireplace feature wall inspires your to add your own warm and inviting electric fireplace wall to your space!

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