Case Study
Cosy Cottage-Style Media Wall in Billingshurst with Electric Log Burner
This charming media wall installation in Billingshurst, West Sussex combines traditional cottage aesthetics with modern practicality. Featuring a Dimplex Optimyst electric stove, faux chimney breast, brick-effect tiling, and a rustic oak mantel beam, the design delivers warmth and character. Built-in shaker alcove units and a tiled hearth complete the look, while soft Farrow & Ball tones create a cosy, timeless space.
Location
Billingshurst, West Sussex
Room Type
Cottage style Living Room
Fire
Dimplex Optimyst Electric Stove
Key Features
Create a warm, characterful media wall with a traditional log burner aesthetic and classic alcove storage
What our client wanted
Our client in Billingshurst came to us with a strong vision. Inspired by various cottage-style interiors, she shared a collection of reference images and a clear brief:
“I’d like a combination of the two above (but with a shorter beam), and the units and shelves either side if possible.”
She wanted to create a cosy, cottage-inspired media wall that felt like it had always belonged in the space. Her vision included a traditional log burner look, rustic materials, and timeless, handcrafted cabinetry.
The design process
At the time, this was a slightly different brief for us (unlike our usual contemporary media walls), this project required a faux chimney breast to replicate the feel of a working fireplace.
Key decisions and features included:
Constructing a false chimney breast to house the fire
Installing a Dimplex Optimyst Electric Stove supplied by B&Q for realistic log-burner effect
Removing and safely capping off an existing radiator to free up wall space
Using a rustic oak beam mantel from Traditional Beams to add natural texture and warmth
Tiling the chimney opening with Bristol Cream Brick-Effect Tiles (brick slips) for an authentic cottage feel
Laying a tiled hearth beneath the stove to complete the look
Painting the wall in Farrow & Ball Slipper Satin for a soft, classic finish
Designing and installing shaker-style alcove units with shelves either side of the chimney breast to provide traditional charm and practical storage
Throughout the process, we collaborated closely with the client, matching design elements from her inspiration photos and adapting them to the room’s proportions.
Building the media wall
Our carpentry team carefully built the false chimney breast and surrounding alcoves, ensuring the proportions worked seamlessly within the room’s layout. The installation of the brick-effect tiles and hearth was handled in-house, giving us full control over quality and finish.
We installed the rustic oak mantel beam securely above the fire, adding visual warmth and a sense of authenticity. Our shaker cabinetry was built to measure, creating symmetry and a handcrafted finish that complements the room’s character.
The result is a perfectly balanced blend of traditional design and modern functionality.
The Finished Media Wall
The final transformation turned a plain, flat wall into the heart of this home. With its flickering electric fire, brick tile surround, and natural oak beam, the media wall feels every bit as welcoming as a real cottage fireplace.
The shaker-style alcove units and shelves provide both storage and styling potential, while the warm paint tone and materials tie the space together beautifully.
It’s a truly unique take on the media wall, one that proves how versatile this style of furniture can be, even in more traditional or period homes.
"We are so pleased with our new fireplace media wall. It’s everything I hoped it would be. Scott and his team were all really professional and friendly. Scott checked I was happy with the build every step of the way. Highly recommend to anyone wanting a media wall."
