How to Build a Hidden TV Lift Cabinet for the End of a Bed
Short answer: To make a hidden TV lift cabinet for the end of a bed (a DIY project), build a cabinet frame sized around a motorized TV lift, mount the TV on the lift, then finish the cabinet so the TV rises at the foot of the bed and disappears when you are done. The lift decides the cabinet size, so choose it first. The Touchstone Whisper Lift II holds TVs up to 100 lb and up to 65 inches and lifts to 68.5 inches in under 30 seconds. If you would rather not build, the Grand Elevate TV lift cabinet is a ready-made option that its page says works for end-of-bed use.
A concealed TV lift cabinet adds modern convenience to a bedroom. When the TV is not in use it stays out of sight, and when it is raised it sits at a comfortable viewing height from the bed.
How to Build a Hidden TV Lift Cabinet for End of Bed: A Complete Guide
This guide walks through the steps: planning the size, choosing a lift, gathering materials, building the cabinet, installing the lift and finishing the piece. It is written for people with basic carpentry skills. You can change the wood, add shelves or compartments, or adjust the style to fit your room. Careful measuring at the start saves the most trouble later.
Planning and Design
Planning is the most important stage of a concealed TV lift cabinet at the end of your bed. Settle the cabinet size, pick the lift mechanism, and decide on the overall design before you cut anything.
Determine Cabinet Size
Measure the width, height, depth and weight of your TV. Then get the specification sheet for the lift you plan to use, because the lift's lowered size, travel and weight limit set the cabinet dimensions. For reference, the Whisper Lift II measures 32.5 in high, 10 in wide and 7 in deep when lowered (including the TV brackets) and reaches 68.5 in when fully raised.
- Width: wide enough for the TV plus room at the sides so it cannot catch on the cabinet as it rises. The Grand Elevate is built for TVs up to 58.5 inches wide.
- Height: tall enough to hide the TV when lowered, counting the lift's closed height and any clearance the manual asks for.
- Depth: deep enough for the TV thickness and the lift mechanism, with the airflow the lift and TV manuals recommend.
Choose a TV Lift Mechanism
Motorized lifts come in several designs, including linear actuator, scissor and telescoping types. Compare the maximum TV size and weight, the lowered height, the travel, the speed and the warranty. The Whisper Lift II, for example, uses a single piston actuator with a steel casing and comes with a universal hardware kit for most flat screens.
Plan Cabinet Design
Once the size and lift are set, decide on materials, style and finish so the cabinet matches your bedroom. Other things to plan:
- Customization: extras such as speakers or a shelf for media equipment.
- Ventilation: leave the airflow that the TV and lift manuals call for.
- Wire management: a route for power and video cables and a place for a power strip, with access for service.
- Room to walk: keep enough space at the foot of the bed to move around the cabinet.
Materials and Tools
List of Materials
- Plywood or MDF board for the main structure
- Lumber for reinforcement and support
- TV lift mechanism that fits your TV's size and weight
- Wood screws and brackets
- Decorative moldings and trim for a finished look
- Wood stain or paint
- Hinges and handles for any doors
- Power strip and cable management accessories
Recommended Tools
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw for cutting the plywood or MDF
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdriver
- Wood glue and clamps to hold parts while the glue dries
- Sandpaper to smooth edges before staining or painting
- Paintbrush or foam roller
Building the Cabinet
Construct Cabinet Frame
Measure and cut the frame pieces: four vertical posts and two horizontal support beams. Assemble them into a rectangle, checking that it is square and level. Use wood screws or dowels and wood glue, and let the glue dry before the next step.
Assemble Side and Back Panels
Cut plywood to fit the frame and sand the edges. Attach the side panels with wood glue and brads or screws, keeping the edges flush with the frame. Then fix the back panel the same way. It closes the cabinet and adds support.
Install Top and Bottom Panels
Cut two more plywood pieces for the top and bottom, matching the frame's width and depth. Attach the bottom panel first, with the cabinet on its side or upside down. Turn the cabinet upright and attach the top, aligned with the frame edges. Cut the opening or lid the TV will rise through, depending on the lift you chose.
Installing the TV Lift Mechanism
Attach Mechanism Components
- Position the lift inside the cabinet, stable and aligned with the opening.
- Attach the mounting brackets using the hardware provided, fastened securely and aligned.
- Connect the cables as the manufacturer's manual instructs.
Secure TV to Mechanism
- Lay the TV face down on a soft, flat surface to protect the screen.
- Attach the TV mounting brackets to the back of the TV, lined up with its VESA mounting holes.
- Lift the TV onto the lift's brackets and secure it with the hardware provided.
- Check that it is stable and level before moving on.
Configure Remote Control
- Plug in the lift and switch it on.
- Follow the manual to pair the remote with the lift.
- Test raising and lowering several times before you finish the cabinet.
Finishing and Customization
Apply Paint or Stain
Sand the surfaces to remove blemishes, and prime first if you are painting. Apply paint or stain following the product's directions and let each coat dry. Cover the lift and other mechanical parts with painter's tape or a sheet so the finish does not reach them.
Add Hardware
Once the finish is dry, attach handles or knobs, then install any door hinges and check they are secure before hanging the doors. Mount the lift to the cabinet as its instructions describe.
Optional Customizations
- Shelving: adjustable shelves for media equipment.
- Lighting: LED strip lights or under-cabinet lights.
- Decorative accents: molding or trim on the outside.
Buy a TV Lift Cabinet Instead of Building
The Touchstone Grand Elevate 74106 Unfinished Mission TV Lift Cabinet fits TVs up to 65 inches (58.5 inches wide). Per its product page, it is unfinished oak so you can paint or stain it, has matching paneling and hardware on both sides for end-of-bed use, includes a Whisper Lift II Pro with a five year warranty and a wireless remote, and raises or lowers the TV in under 30 seconds. The cabinet is 20 inches deep, and the page lists an optional component shelf.
Safety and Maintenance
Follow Safe Usage Guidelines
- Turn off and unplug the TV and the lift before working on the cabinet.
- Keep the area around the cabinet free of obstacles and flammable materials.
- Do not exceed the maximum weight rating set by the lift manufacturer.
Maintain the TV Lift Mechanism
Follow the maintenance schedule in your lift's manual. Typical checks include:
- Checking and tightening bolts and screws
- Lubricating moving parts with the product the manufacturer recommends
- Inspecting cables, chains and pulleys and replacing worn parts
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make a hidden TV at the foot of a bed?
Build or buy a cabinet with a motorized TV lift inside. The TV stays lowered and hidden, and rises at the foot of the bed with a remote.
What size TV fits a TV lift cabinet for the end of a bed?
It depends on the lift. The Whisper Lift II and Grand Elevate listed above are for TVs up to 65 inches.
How long does a TV lift take to raise the TV?
The lifts above raise or lower the TV in under 30 seconds, according to their product pages.
Do I need woodworking experience?
Basic carpentry is enough for a simple box cabinet, and the lift installation follows its manual. If you would rather skip the build, buy a ready-made lift cabinet.
Conclusion
A hidden TV lift cabinet at the end of the bed comes down to a few decisions: pick the lift first, size the cabinet around it, build a square, sturdy frame, mount the TV carefully and finish the wood to match the room. Use durable materials, measure precisely and test the lift before closing everything up.
Questions? Call or text (916) 262-7257 or email support@archicfurniture.com.
