In this episode of Love Your Kitchen, host Faye Newman dives into the rise of the media wall/media station and how to design one that complements your kitchen design beautifully in open-plan homes. From TV sizing and viewing distance to materials, lighting and wiring, Faye shares practical guidance so your lounge zone feels as considered as your kitchen Renovation, with ideas you can adapt whether you’re planning a full kitchen remodel or simple kitchen upgrades.

Key Takeaways

Plan the bones before the beauty. Decide early on studwork vs furniture, cable routes, ventilation, heat management (especially with electric fires), and fixing points. Forward-plan spare power and data for future smart kitchen and AV expansions.

Materials that add warmth. Acoustic/wood panelling (e.g., slatted, grids, or bespoke patterns) adds texture, softens sound and is friendly for a DIY kitchen-adjacent project; porcelain or stone-look cladding can elevate the TV niche.

Light in layers. Swap harsh task lighting for warm-tone ambient: LED strips in open shelves, wall lights, and portable lamps. Keep tones consistent (choose warm or neutral-warm) so the lounge reads relaxed next to the brighter cooking zone.

Fireplace integration. Modern electric fires (single, corner or three-sided) can run the full studwork width or align between TV and edge; manage heat/airflow so electronics stay happy.

Best Moments

“Don’t over-design it, let the media wall show personality, but keep the scheme cohesive with your kitchen.”

“Plan the wiring and infrastructure now; future-you will thank you when you add lighting or tech later.”

“Warm, ambient lighting makes the lounge zone feel relaxing; save the bright task lights for the kitchen.”

“Sometimes you just need a second pair of eyes, proportion and depth changes make all the difference.”

About the Host

Faye Newman is a freelance Kitchen Designer with eight years of experience in the industry. With a background in furniture design and a passion for creating spaces that reflect the essence of the home, Faye brings a unique perspective to kitchen design. Her dedication to client satisfaction and love for her craft shines through in every project she undertakes.

Connect with Faye Newman Design:

Visit: www.fayenewmandesign.com for kitchen inspiration and design resources.

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