
We’ve come across many articles on how to turn a dresser into a tv stand. They are impressive, to be sure, but they all require some level of construction that takes it beyond what we would call “easy”. But upcycling a buffet into a media console doesn’t have to be hard! Below we share with you the steps to take to turn a buffet into a tv stand.
This post may contain affiliate links. See out Disclosure Policy for details.
Why? Because a tv stand or media console has to have open shelving to accommodate all the electronic components and to communicate with your remote control. Dressers typically don’t have such open shelving and drawers have to be removed and shelves created. But what usually comes with shelves and an opening already? You guessed it – a buffet!
Okay, okay, typically there will be doors you have to remove, but in our opinion this is much more achievable for the average person than converting an old dresser. Here are the 4 steps we followed to convert an old buffet into a classy media console.
Step 1 – remove some or all the doors/panels and hinges from buffet
Using a screwdriver or a drill, remove some or all the doors and their hinges from the buffet (it will depend on the particular configuration of your buffet is you keep some doors for concealed storage). On this particular buffet, the central “door” was really just a panel which we removed with a hammer from the inside.

Step 2 – putty the holes and sand
With the hinges removed, there will be holes left in the wood. Sand a little bit over the top of the holes to remove any small splinters of wood that may have become exposed when the hinges were removed. Using a putty knife, press the wood putty into the holes. You’ll want to over fill the holes and then scape over them with the putty knife to remove the excess. Let the putty is dry (the time will depend on your working conditions but give it at least an hour). Sand down the putty. If you find there is still a slight depression when you run your finger over the holes, repeat the process until you are satisfied the holes are almost imperceptible.

Step 3 – clean, prime, paint and seal
Now you’re ready for the fun part! I know what you’re thinking, this seems like more than one step. You’re right, it is, but if you’re taking on this project, we’re confident you can knock off these steps in short order. You can follow our guide for achieving the perfect paint finish.

Don’t be tempted to skip the prep! Even paints that claim to be “no prep” will have a much better finish if you take the time to clean and sand your piece properly first.
We chose Benjamin Moore’s Van Courtland blue with Cloud White for the interior. Light and fresh colours really help update dated wood furniture!
Lastly, a tv stand will likely get a lot of use and a top coat to protect your paint finish is recommended. We usually use a polycrylic like this or water based varnish.
Step 4 – create an opening for cables and tv parts
Finally, since this piece will be housing electronics, you need to create a hole for the cables. Yay for no unsightly wires! The easiest way is to use a drill with a special bit. Either a spade bit or a hole saw bit will work.
Use a pencil to make where you want to centre of your hole to be. With the spade or hole saw bit on your drill, line it up with the centre mark you’ve made. Gently push the trigger while applying pressure to the drill. You should pop right through in no time.
If your hole is going to be exposed, you may want to consider buying a grommet to cleanly cover the hole. If you go for this option, just make sure you are buying the same size grommet as drill bit you are using.
All that’s left is to move your new media console into place, add some accessories and enjoy Netflix! We hope you’re convinced a buffet or sideboard is a much better option than turning a dresser into a tv stand. Have you repurposed furniture before? What was your most creative upcycle? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

I have an old cabinet/hutch that I want to turn into a coffee bar for my kitchen. I can’t find any good information online about how to remove the shelves in the upper part.
They aren’t removable, they are built into the frame, so I’m assuming they would need to be cut off somehow. Any advice for that? Thanks!