John Malecki’s DIY Bedroom Fireplace and TV Wall

John Malecki, a former NFL offensive lineman, now leads a team that pushes the boundaries of what's possible in building incredible projects. They blend woodworking, metalworking, epoxy, and home DIY and renovation projects.

John Malecki influencer shoot

Recently, John has been working on a new fireplace TV wall, collaborating with Heat & Glo to make the Primo II gas linear fireplace the centerpiece of the makeover. This partnership has allowed John to incorporate cutting-edge fireplace technology into his design, creating a cozy and stylish retreat. The new fireplace not only enhances the room's aesthetic but also provides warmth and comfort, making it the most important part of the transformation.

John Malecki removing the whitewashed pallet wood that covered the wall.

For their latest project, John began by removing the whitewashed pallet wood that covered the wall. He used painter's tape to plan the layout of the fireplace accent wall.

John Malecki planning out his fireplace transformation with painters' tape.

The team created a 3D rendering to visualize the project. They planned shelving on the left side of the fireplace, above an accent chair. The fireplace, the room's focal point, is centered on the wall between the door and the far wall. John added three beams above to showcase the tall ceilings and enhance the room's character. These beams also tie into the fireplace mantel. To complement the fireplace, John chose an off-white brick surround and added modern open shelving.

John Malecki's 3D rendering of the fireplace makeover.

Next, John installed three ceiling beams, centering the middle beam perpendicular to the future fireplace. He then removed the baseboard from the start of the fireplace to the end of the wall to make space for the stone that would extend from the fireplace to the wall's end. "[I knew this would] look pretty rad", says the colorful YouTuber.

John Malecki adding beams in his main bedroom.

John's authorized local Heat & Glo dealer delivered the Primo II gas linear fireplace once framing was complete, installing it directly into John's design. They took care to ensure proper access to the ducting, which should always be handled by trained professionals in order to meet safety codes.

John Malecki framing in his main bedroom for the Primo II fireplace.

For the fireplace media, John chose a driftwood log set to complement the stone for a clean, yet inviting, look. He then installed the sheathing, providing a base for the stone and the TV. The fireplace pops against a black wall, with a floating mantel and shelves to add a dynamic, three-dimensional touch to the wall. John mounted the TV before adding the stone to ensure everything was flush.

John Malecki framing for the Primo II fireplace.

Finally, the stone was applied to the fireplace wall to complete the project. The heat management and engineering of the Primo II allow you to place combustibles and finishing materials as close as one inch from the fireplace, making it ideal for integrating a TV above it. One of John's favorite features of the fireplace is the SafeSurface Glass, which is a double-pane glass that keeps the heat away without needing a screen, offering the best view of the flame. This fireplace is great for year-round comfort because of its heat control capability.

John Malecki adding the stone surround for his Primo II fireplace.

John Malecki's latest project showcases how a well-designed fireplace can transform any space, creating a perfect blend of style, comfort, and functionality. The Primo II gas linear fireplace is the perfect match with a TV because of its advanced heat management technology. By partnering with Heat & Glo, John has demonstrated the potential of innovative fireplace technology to enhance both living and sleeping areas. If you’re inspired by John’s work and are ready to start your own fireplace transformation, now is the perfect time. Contact your local Heat & Glo dealer today to explore the possibilities and bring the warmth and beauty of a custom fireplace into your home.

John Malecki's finished bedroom fireplace makeover.

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