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Media Walls: What to Think About Before You Build One

~ Martin Howlett ~ Leave a comment

What to Think About Before You Build One

Media wall

A good media wall is mostly decided before anyone cuts a board. The TV, the cables, the storage and the lighting all have to be planned together, or you end up with a nice looking wall that is a pain to live with.

I have been building fitted furniture across West Sussex and Surrey since 2010, and media walls are now one of the most common things I get asked about. This post covers what I talk through with clients at the first visit, so you know what to think about before you get in touch with me or anyone else.

What a media wall actually is

A media wall is a fitted unit built around your TV, usually running wall to wall and often floor to ceiling. Instead of a TV sitting on a stand with wires trailing down the wall, the screen sits flush in a framed panel, with cupboards, shelves and sometimes a fire built in around it.

The difference from a freestanding TV unit is that it is made for your room. It works around your chimney breast, skirting, sockets and ceiling height, and it hides everything you don’t want to see. Done properly, it looks like part of the house rather than furniture you bought.

Start with the TV, not the wall

The first thing I ask is what TV you have, or what you plan to buy in the next few years. The opening in the wall is built to suit the screen, so if you upgrade from a 55 inch to a 75 inch later, the wall might not take it. I usually leave some room around the screen so there is space to go up a size.

Height matters more than most people think. The most common mistake I see is a TV mounted too high, often above a fire, so you spend every evening looking up. For most living rooms I aim to have the middle of the screen roughly at eye level when you are sat on the sofa. I will measure your seating before I draw anything.

If you have a soundbar or speakers, we plan where they go now. A soundbar can sit on a shelf under the screen or in a recess with an open or fabric front. Surround speakers can be built into the side panels. Sorting this at the drawing stage is far easier than trying to fit it in afterwards.

Cables, heat and getting to your kit

Hiding cables is the whole point for a lot of people, so I plan cable routes from the start. That means a clear run from the back of the TV down to the cupboard where your Sky box, router or games console lives, with room to add another cable later without taking anything apart.

Electronics get warm, and a closed cupboard full of boxes will cook them. I build in ventilation, either through gaps at the back or vented panels, so the air can move. I also make sure you can still reach the back of everything. If your router needs a restart, you should be able to open a door and do it, not unscrew a panel.

Sockets and aerial points often need moving or adding. I will tell you where they need to be early on so your electrician can do the first fix before I fit.

Storage, shelving, lighting and fires

Most media walls are a mix of closed and open storage. Low cupboards along the bottom take the clutter: remotes, games, DVDs, the router. Open shelves above are for things you want to see, like books, photos and the odd plant. I find a balance of the two looks best. All open shelves can look busy, and all doors can feel heavy.

Lighting makes a big difference in the evening. LED strips set into the shelves or around the TV recess give a soft glow without glare on the screen. I route the drivers and wiring into the unit so you never see them, and they can go on a dimmer or a smart switch.

Electric fires are popular in media walls, and they work well if you plan for them. The fire needs to suit the depth of the unit, it needs ventilation, and the TV needs to sit far enough above it that you are not craning your neck. If you want a fire, tell me at the start so I can design the wall around it.

Materials and finishes

Most of my painted media walls are built from MEDITE MR, a moisture resistant MDF. I have used it for years because it is consistent sheet to sheet, machines cleanly and takes a spray finish really well. That consistency means less filling and sanding before painting, and a smoother result on the faces and edges.

Moisture resistance matters more than you might expect in a living room. Homes change with the seasons, and a cheaper board can swell or move over time, which shows up as cracked paint at the joints. MR holds its shape much better.

MEDITE recently featured one of my projects: a 5.1m wide media wall in a West Sussex living room, with lit shelving, a low cabinet with a timber top, and concealed cable management. You can read the case study on the MEDITE website.

For finishes, I spray most media walls in a colour of your choice, either to match your walls or as a contrast. Timber tops, shelves or a full hardwood frame are also an option if you want some warmth in the room.

How I work

I run the business on my own, so you deal with me from start to finish. There is no showroom, no salesperson and no subcontracted fitting team.

  1. Site visit. I come out, measure the room, look at your TV and seating, and talk through how you use the space.
  2. Design. I draw up the wall to scale so you can see the proportions, storage and where the TV sits before anything is made.
  3. Workshop build. Everything is made in my workshop and sprayed there, so the finish is clean and consistent.
  4. Installation. I fit it myself, scribe it to your walls and ceiling, and make sure every door and drawer lines up.

Thinking about a media wall?

If you are in West Sussex or Surrey and want to talk through a media wall, get in touch. Send me a photo of the room and a rough idea of what you want, and I will let you know how I can help.

Inspired by Sussex: Designing Furniture That Feels at Home

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Introduction: Rooted in the Region

Martin Howlett Furniture is proud to be based in the heart of West Sussex, serving homeowners across this beautiful county and into neighbouring Surrey, Hampshire, and South London. There’s a unique character to this part of England – its diverse architecture, the stunning landscapes stretching from the South Downs to the coast, and a particular way of life. While every piece of furniture we create is entirely bespoke and tailored to the individual client’s vision, we believe that working within this local context allows us to design pieces that not only fit perfectly but also feel truly ‘at home’.

Reflecting Local Architecture with Sensitivity

The homes in our service area vary enormously, from charming coastal cottages and flint-walled rural properties to elegant Georgian townhouses and contemporary new builds. Designing bespoke furniture offers the opportunity to create pieces that are sympathetic to the building’s inherent style and proportions. This might mean incorporating traditional Shaker-style doors for cabinets in a country kitchen, designing sleek, minimalist lines for a modern extension, or carefully considering period details when integrating storage into an older property. It’s about understanding the architectural language of the home and designing furniture that complements, rather than competes with it, demonstrating a deeper understanding that goes beyond simple measurements.

Echoes of the Coast and Downs in Colour and Texture

The natural beauty of Sussex can provide subtle inspiration for material palettes and colour choices. Imagine finishes that echo the soft blues and greys of the coastal sky and sea, the earthy greens and warm wood tones reminiscent of the rolling South Downs, or the textural quality of natural timber finishes. This isn’t about literal interpretations, but rather about capturing a feeling – perhaps a sense of calm evoked by coastal colours, or the grounded warmth suggested by natural wood grains – creating furniture that resonates with its surroundings.

Designing for the Sussex Lifestyle

How people live in their homes also informs our design thinking. Understanding the local lifestyle helps us create furniture that truly meets practical needs. This could mean designing robust and practical boot room storage, essential after muddy walks on the Downs; creating elegant and functional cabinetry for those who enjoy entertaining; or crafting calm, organised home office spaces that perhaps take advantage of lovely garden views common in the area. It’s about designing furniture that supports and enhances the way our clients live in this region.

Expertise in Local Properties

Years of working within Sussex and the surrounding areas mean we have practical, hands-on experience with the types of properties found here. We understand the common architectural features, like the prevalence of alcoves in Victorian and Edwardian homes, and the specific challenges they can present. This local knowledge allows us to anticipate potential issues and design effective solutions from the outset, drawing on a wealth of successful projects within the region.

The Value of a Local Craftsman

Choosing a local craftsman offers more than just convenience; it means working with someone who understands the local context and is invested in the community. It fosters a closer working relationship and ensures a sensitivity to the nuances of designing for homes in this specific area.

Conclusion: Furniture That Belongs

While every Martin Howlett Furniture commission is a unique collaboration focused on the client’s individual needs and style, our roots in Sussex provide a valuable context. We bring a sensitivity to the local environment, architecture, and lifestyle, helping to create bespoke furniture that not only functions perfectly but feels perfectly, naturally, at home.

Looking for bespoke furniture designed with a sensitivity to your Sussex home and lifestyle? Contact Martin Howlett Furniture to discuss your project.

Investing in Quality: Why Bespoke Furniture Offers Long-Term Value

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Introduction: Beyond the Price Tag

It’s undeniable that bespoke, custom-fitted furniture represents a more significant financial outlay compared to mass-produced, off-the-shelf items or standard flat-pack solutions. This naturally leads to the question: is it truly worth the investment? At Martin Howlett Furniture, we firmly believe the answer is yes. When you commission bespoke furniture, you’re not just buying an object; you’re investing in quality, longevity, tailored solutions, and enduring style – factors that deliver tangible value far beyond the initial price tag.

Built to Last: The Foundation of Value

One of the most significant differences lies in the construction and materials. Bespoke furniture from Martin Howlett Furniture is crafted using superior materials, such as high-performance MEDITE MR where appropriate, and employs construction techniques designed for durability and longevity. Unlike many mass-market items built with cost-cutting compromises, our pieces are made to withstand daily use for years, often decades. The meticulous finishing processes further enhance this durability, providing a robust surface that resists wear and tear. This focus on build quality means your furniture won’t need replacing after just a few years, representing excellent value for money over its extended lifespan.

Timeless Design, Perfect Fit: Enduring Style

Trends come and go, but furniture designed specifically for your space and reflecting your enduring personal style has timeless appeal. Because bespoke furniture is tailored to the exact dimensions and character of your room, it becomes an integral part of your home’s architecture, rather than an afterthought. This perfect fit not only looks better but also avoids the compromises that often lead to dissatisfaction and the desire for replacement down the line. A well-designed, perfectly integrated piece adds unique character and lasting appeal.

Adding Tangible Value to Your Home

High-quality, thoughtfully designed fitted furniture can be a significant asset when it comes to your property’s appeal and potential resale value. Solutions that cleverly maximise storage, solve inherent spatial problems (like awkward alcoves or limited bedroom storage), or create highly functional spaces (like integrated home offices) are incredibly desirable to potential buyers. Particularly in period properties, where storage is often at a premium, well-executed bespoke cabinetry can be a major selling point, making it a wise investment in your home’s overall value.

Solving Problems Permanently and Beautifully

Consider that awkward corner, the cluttered alcove, or the lack of functional workspace. Bespoke furniture offers a permanent, elegant solution to these common household frustrations. Instead of relying on temporary fixes or making do with inadequate standard options, a custom-designed piece addresses the problem head-on, maximising functionality and aesthetics simultaneously. This investment solves the issue effectively and beautifully for the long term, enhancing your daily enjoyment of your home.

The Intrinsic Value of Craftsmanship

Beyond the practical benefits, there’s an intrinsic value in owning something unique, handcrafted with skill, care, and attention to detail. Knowing that your furniture was made specifically for you, by a dedicated craftsman, brings a level of satisfaction and connection that mass-produced items cannot replicate. This pride of ownership and the daily pleasure derived from using a well-made, beautiful object are invaluable aspects of the bespoke experience.

Conclusion: An Investment, Not an Expense

When viewed through the lens of longevity, timeless design, potential home value enhancement, effective problem-solving, and the satisfaction of true craftsmanship, bespoke furniture reveals its true worth. It transcends being a simple purchase and becomes a smart, lasting investment in the quality, functionality, and enjoyment of your home.

Looking for furniture that represents true long-term value and enhances your home for years to come? Contact Martin Howlett Furniture to discuss your investment in quality craftsmanship.

From Concept to Creation: The Martin Howlett Furniture Design Process

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Introduction: Your Vision, Brought to Life

Commissioning bespoke furniture can feel like a significant undertaking, perhaps even a little daunting. How do you translate your ideas into a finished piece? How can you be sure the final result will be exactly what you envisioned? At Martin Howlett Furniture, we’ve refined a clear, collaborative, and client-focused design process designed to make the journey from initial concept to final installation smooth, enjoyable, and ultimately, successful in delivering furniture that perfectly meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.

Step 1: The Initial Consultation – Listening First

Every bespoke journey begins with a conversation. Whether you reach out via phone, email, or our website contact form, the first step is an initial discussion about your project. We want to hear your ideas, understand the space you have in mind, learn about your functional requirements, and get a sense of your style preferences and budget. This initial chat is about listening carefully to your vision and establishing whether we are the right fit for your project. There’s no obligation at this stage – it’s simply about exploring the possibilities together.

Step 2: Site Visit & Survey – Understanding Your Space

Assuming the initial discussion is positive, the next crucial step is usually a site visit to your home. This allows Martin to see the space firsthand, understand its nuances, take precise measurements, and discuss design possibilities in situ. It’s also the opportunity to identify any specific challenges, such as uneven walls, sloping ceilings, or existing architectural features that need to be incorporated. This detailed survey is fundamental, especially when tackling the ‘awkward spaces’ often found in properties throughout Sussex, Surrey and surrounding areas, ensuring the final design will fit perfectly.

Step 3: Design Development & CAD Visuals – Seeing Your Ideas Take Shape

Following the site visit, we move into the design development phase. Based on our discussions and the survey, initial design concepts are created. Crucially, these are often presented using 3D CAD (Computer-Aided Design) drawings. These visuals are invaluable, providing you with a clear, realistic representation of how the proposed furniture will look in your space. Seeing the design in 3D helps eliminate guesswork and ensures everyone is on the same page before any construction begins. This visualisation step is key to building confidence and de-risking the process for you, ensuring the design aligns perfectly with your expectations.

Step 4: Refinement & Finalisation – Perfecting the Details

The design process is collaborative. We encourage your feedback on the initial CAD drawings and work with you to refine the design until it’s exactly right. This might involve tweaking dimensions, adjusting internal layouts, or exploring different material and finish options. Client feedback consistently highlights appreciation for this collaborative approach. Once you are completely happy with the design, we finalise all the details, including materials, finishes, hardware, and project timelines.

Step 5: Workshop Crafting – Bringing the Design to Life

With the design finalised, the project moves into our workshop. Here, skilled craftspeople meticulously construct your furniture using the chosen materials and techniques. Building off-site minimises disruption in your home and allows us to maintain the highest standards of quality control throughout the crafting process.

Step 6: Professional Installation – The Final Touch

The final step is the installation of your bespoke furniture in your home. Our installation process is carried out carefully and efficiently, with meticulous attention to detail and respect for your property. We aim to minimise disruption and ensure a clean and tidy work area throughout the installation. The result is seamlessly integrated furniture, ready for you to enjoy.

Conclusion: A Collaborative Journey to Perfection

The Martin Howlett Furniture design process is a structured yet flexible journey, designed to be collaborative and transparent from start to finish. By working closely with you at every stage, from the initial idea through to the final installation, we ensure the finished piece is a true reflection of your vision and perfectly suited to your home.

Ready to start your own bespoke furniture journey? Contact Martin Howlett Furniture today to schedule your initial consultation and take the first step.

Beyond the Wardrobe: Creative Storage Solutions for Modern Living

~ Martin Howlett ~ Leave a comment

Introduction: Storage That Inspires

In today’s homes, effective storage is more than just a practical necessity; it’s crucial for creating a sense of calm, order, and visual harmony. Clutter can detract from even the most beautifully decorated space. But what if storage solutions could be more than just functional boxes? What if they could be integrated, stylish features that enhance your home’s architecture and aesthetic? At Martin Howlett Furniture, we believe storage can and should be both clever and beautiful, extending far beyond the traditional bedroom wardrobe.

The Power of Alcoves: From Awkward to Asset

Alcoves – those recesses typically found flanking fireplaces or in hallways – are common features in many homes, particularly period properties across Sussex and Surrey. Often underutilised or filled awkwardly, they represent prime real estate for bespoke solutions. Martin Howlett Furniture excels in transforming these spaces. Imagine elegant floating shelves for displaying treasured objects, stylish base cabinets providing concealed storage with open shelving above, or even a fully integrated desk creating a compact workspace. These aren’t just cupboards; they are thoughtfully designed units that maximise function while respecting the room’s proportions and style, turning a potential challenge into a distinct advantage, often becoming a favourite feature for clients.

Integrated Media Units: Taming Technology

Living rooms are hubs of relaxation and entertainment, but managing the associated technology – TVs, soundbars, gaming consoles, media boxes – can be a design headache. Bespoke media units offer the perfect solution. Designed around your specific equipment, they provide dedicated housing, clever cable management to conceal wires, and essential ventilation. More than just practical, these units are designed to complement your living space, whether you prefer a discreet cabinet where the TV disappears when not in use, or a more comprehensive unit incorporating display shelving and storage, finished to match your decor perfectly.

Home Office Harmony: Productivity Meets Style

With the rise of remote working, the need for dedicated home office spaces has surged. A bespoke approach allows for the creation of environments that are both highly productive and aesthetically pleasing. Think custom-designed desks tailored to your workflow and equipment, integrated shelving for files and books, and cabinetry that keeps office clutter hidden away. Whether it’s a dedicated room or a cleverly designed nook within a larger living space, custom furniture ensures your home office is organised, comfortable, and seamlessly integrated into your home.

Elegant Entrances: Boot Rooms & Hallways

First impressions count, and hallways or boot rooms often bear the brunt of daily life. Bespoke solutions can bring order and style to these hardworking areas. Imagine a custom-built bench with integrated shoe storage beneath, tall cupboards for coats and bags, or a slim console table with drawers perfectly proportioned for a narrow hallway. These practical pieces are designed to handle the demands of daily life while maintaining a sense of elegance and welcome.

Thinking Outside the Box

The possibilities for bespoke storage are limited only by imagination. From ingenious under-stair storage solutions and expansive library walls to custom bathroom vanities or unique display cabinets, Martin Howlett Furniture possesses the skill and creativity to tackle diverse storage challenges throughout the home.

Conclusion: Solving Problems Beautifully

Effective storage is key to modern living. Bespoke solutions offer the unique advantage of being tailored precisely to your space, needs, and style, transforming clutter hotspots into functional, beautiful features. From alcoves to home offices, Martin Howlett Furniture designs storage that works harder and looks better.

Need a clever storage solution for a challenging space in your home? Discuss your ideas with Martin Howlett Furniture today and let us design something truly unique for you.