Mantel

I sure didn't expect the pull-out drawer!

Is there going to be any ambient heat issue with the media in that drawer?

The drawer stays surprisingly cool. The fireplace is vented out the back and is topped by a 2x4 issulated frame with the 3/4" bottom of the box that the drawer slides into. The drawer front does actually get a little more heat than I expected, but the inside stays pretty much room temp.

I like the mantel; very cool, surprising drawer,-even like the little "gazelles". Would rather see a nicely framed tv full time than those big awkward doors(when open and closed)though.

I disagree Dano. I thought the design and the way the whole deal is constructed is wonderful. 90% of the time I bet the doors are open for the TV anyway. They will only close them for company or formal occasions. So even if they are tough to open and close, which I doubt they are, it would not be an issue. It is not like they are going to close them up every night.

Thanks for your comments. My wife really wanted to be able to close it off at times so we added the doors. I still need to add compartments for components which I am not sure how you would do if the tv was framed in. It is kind of sad because I really like the double arched raised panels on the doors, but, yes, 90% of the time they are open. I know it is nothing compared to the other mantels you see on here, but I am pretty proud of it. Thanks.