DIY Network

Entertainment Bar: Framework From "Weekend Remodeling" episode WKR-310

Do you have a large family room that's basically a blank canvas and in need of a stylish addition? Consider the addition of a beautiful entertainment bar, as demonstrated by host Fuad Reveiz.

This project mixes many different elements (cabinetry, pre-cast stone, countertop installation) and requires carpentry, electrical and masonry skills. Because of this, this project rates 4 out of 5 on the Weekend Remodeling difficulty scale.

advertisement

	Before the Remodel: a basic basement with room for improvement.
	After: From boring basement to family room with a dash of panache.

Materials:

2 x 4s
2 electrical boxes and outlets
non-metallic building electrical wire
Drywall and drywall "mud"
1/2" cement board
Wire mesh
Mortar
Pre-cast stone
Cabinets
Under counter refrigerator
Various trim pieces
Nails and screws
Painting supplies
2 granite countertops
Steel mounting plates
Hammer
Circular saw
Drill and bits
Pliers
Trim nailer
Tape measure
Electrical tester
Wire strippers and wire nuts
Utility knife
Trowel
Cardboard
Grinder
Level
Shims
Clamps
Caulk gun and caulk
Silicon adhesive
Bucket
T-square
Chalk line
Work gloves (for working with metal lathe)

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

Note: This project was designed with the assistance of a computer design program. The instructions for your particular project may vary.

1. In this example, the trim work between the two closets is removed by using a utility knife to score the paint along the top of the shoe mold before removal. The same thing is done to remove the base molding where it connects to the door casing (figure A).

2. Measure the area where the bar will go and create a cardboard template for the cabinets. Set template in place exactly where you want the cabinets to go (figure B). Measure and cut bottom plates from 2 x 4s for the three wall sections. Set bottom plates into position around the template and cut away existing carpet along the 2 x 4s (figure C).

3. Remove carpet, then remove any tackless strips holding the carpet in place. Cut away carpet pad.

4. Cut the rest of the rectangular 2 x 4s that will make up the remaining portions of the three wall sections.

5. Assemble the wall sections by using 16-penny nails to attach the studs to the treated bottom plate. Finish up the small walls by nailing the top rail into position.

6. Lay the template back in place and trace a line around template onto the surrounding concrete. This will create the guide for setting the wall sections. Set the first wall on the line (figure D), drill into the base plate, then change to a masonry drill bit and drill concrete.

7. Attach frame to floor with 2-1/2" masonry screws. Attach other two sections just like the first. To bring the two sections together, temporarily attach a 2 x 4 across the corners to align the walls. Secure with 3" wood screws. Finally, anchor the new wall into a stud in the existing wall.