A media wall turns a blank wall into a built-in feature that frames your TV, hides the cables and adds recesses for a soundbar, console or shelving. Building one is well within reach for a confident DIYer — the hard part is getting the measurements and the cut list right so nothing is wasted.
1. Measure the space
Measure the full width, height and any obstructions (skirting, sockets, radiators). Decide how far the wall will project from the existing wall — a typical media wall is 90–150mm deep to clear cables and recess the TV.
2. Plan the layout in 3D
Before cutting anything, lay out the design: where the TV sits, where recesses go, and how the panels break up. This is exactly what the Wallwrightunits configurator does — you set the dimensions and drop in recesses and TV cut-outs, and it works out the framing and materials for you.
3. Frame the studwork
Build a timber frame (CLS studwork) fixed to the floor, ceiling and existing wall. Verticals at 400–600mm centres give the boards enough support. Leave openings for any recesses.
4. Board it out
Sheet the frame with MDF or plasterboard. A media wall usually uses MDF where you want a paint-ready, rigid finish. This is where an accurate cutting list saves money — nesting the cuts from full sheets minimises offcuts.
5. Add recesses and finishes
Line the recesses, fill and sand the joints, then paint or panel. Slatted panels are a popular finish and need their own cut spacing to line up cleanly with the edges.
Get a build-ready cutting list
The tedious part — the sheet nesting, the framing quantities and the material maths — is what Wallwrightunits automates. Design your wall in 3D and get a precise, costed cutting list and bill of materials, so you can build it yourself and skip the designer fee.