This project was built and designed by Nathan from Nathan Builds. It’s a smart, functional piece that blends modern design with hidden technology using a remote-operated TV lift.
The result is a clean, stylish cabinet that keeps your TV out of sight until you’re ready to use it. This project is a great mix of woodworking and mechanical integration for any living room.
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Project Overview
Nathan’s design features a plywood cabinet with solid walnut legs, sliding doors, and a lift mechanism that raises and hides the TV. It includes side storage and clean lines that match a modern aesthetic.
The TV lift hardware is concealed inside the back compartment, helping maintain a sleek appearance. When not in use, the TV disappears completely, freeing up visual space.
Breaking Down Materials
The cabinet body is made from high-quality plywood. Using a track saw and circular saw, Nathan cuts large panels into accurate pieces for each section of the build.
This two-step cutting method helps achieve straight, parallel edges. Having uniform parts makes the entire cabinet easier to assemble and align.
Framing the Cabinet
Vertical supports are cut for the main body and lift compartment. These support pieces come from the same plywood sheet for consistency in thickness and finish.
Careful planning allows efficient material use and minimal waste. Each panel is measured and marked to avoid errors before moving on to assembly.
Routing and Joinery
Dados are routed into the top and bottom sections of the cabinet to hold the sliding doors. The top dados are deeper, making door installation and removal easier.
Edge banding is added to cover the plywood edges. A hot iron applies the banding, and a razor is used to trim the edges flush for a seamless appearance.
Assembly with Dowels
A doweling jig is used to join the main cabinet panels. This creates strong, accurate joints while keeping the exterior clean and screw-free.
After applying glue and inserting dowels, the panels are clamped together for a tight bond. Proper clamping is essential to keeping everything square during drying.
Installing the TV Lift
Nathan uses a lift mechanism from TV Lift Cabinet. The lift is strong enough to hold up to 220 pounds and includes a remote for easy operation.
The lift fits into the back section of the cabinet and is mounted using provided hardware. Careful measuring ensures the lift and TV align with the opening and operate smoothly.
Constructing the Shelves and Back
Shelves and dividers are cut to fit between the vertical supports. Pocket holes are used to join these pieces quickly and securely.
The back panel is attached with pocket screws as well, helping close off the lift section and add rigidity to the overall frame.
Making the Sliding Doors
Sliding doors are made from walnut plywood with an MDF core. The panels are cut oversized and trimmed down until the fit is perfect.
This method allows small adjustments to dial in the spacing. Once complete, the doors slide cleanly within the dado tracks routed earlier.
Crafting the Legs
The legs are cut from solid walnut and add a premium touch to the piece. Their clean, angular shape complements the modern design of the cabinet.
They’re securely attached and finished to match the rest of the build. The natural tone of walnut contrasts nicely against the lighter cabinet body.
Final Details and Finish
The entire cabinet is sanded to a smooth finish. Edges are softened, and surfaces are prepped for final coating.
Nathan uses beeswax as a natural finish to enhance the walnut’s rich grain. It also adds a layer of protection without altering the wood’s color.
Mounting the TV and Testing
The TV is bolted to the lift once the cabinet is assembled. Final measurements are checked to ensure that the lift mechanism operates without obstruction.
With everything in place, the TV raises and lowers cleanly. The cabinet remains stable and stylish whether the TV is hidden or in view.
Why This Project Stands Out
This TV stand is a practical build that showcases clean design and thoughtful features. It’s functional, space-saving, and adds a high-end touch to any room.
If you’re looking for a challenge that blends woodworking with simple tech integration, this project offers both. It’s also a conversation piece that adds convenience to your living space.
Want to See the Full Build?
Watch the full video and subscribe to Nathan’s channel: