****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
I really wanted this TV stand since it was small, fix my style perfectly, and had an electric fireplace, but I saw mixed reviews online so I was hesitant. I finally got it and I couldn't be more happy. It was the perfect fit for my apartment and the fireplace creates a great ambiance.One thing I thought I noticed while reading reviews is that the model with the fireplace included came with more damage so I figured I may be able to buy the TV stand without the fireplace and then buy the 18" fireplace separately, which I would recommend (TLDR; it's cheaper and you'll get a better fireplace)The stand is not packaged very well. There are 4 pieces that have bits of wood glued on perpendicular to the main board and all of those pieces fell off. Two of those pieces were the middle shelves, which didn't bother me much since I didn't intend to use them, and I think it wouldn't be a huge deal since the broken side can just be placed in the back of the unit.I also ended up using one of the broken pieces to cover some exposed metal between the fireplace and the top of the TV stand which was convenient for me.The other two pieces that got broken are more important. You can see in one of the pictures how I screwed a few parts together right next to the fireplace. It's still not very secure with the screws in, but I'm not too concerned.The unit also comes with a small touch-up pen which you may be able to see in the plastic bag which is appreciated since I had to use it in a few different places, but also a bit telling that they would rather include a touchup pen than improve their packaging.The fireplace unit I got is the 18" electric fireplace heater from TACKspace on Amazon. It's not a perfect fit as the unit is a bit too tall so I had to take the top off the TV stand to install it and was then unable to install the screws towards the front of the unit. The top of the TV stand is also at a very slight angle because the fireplace is slightly too tall. The fireplace also has intake fans on the top of the unit, which I'm a bit concerned about because there is very little space under the top of the TV stand and the intake, but the fact that the top of the TV stand is on a slight angle actually helps here since it provides a bit more space for airflow.You may want to do some more research or try out a few different fireplaces as there is probably one that fits better than the one I got, but it works for me.In the end, getting this other model of firplace was the right move though, I think. It ended up being cheaper to buy the TV stand and the fireplace separately, it may have contributed to less shipping damage (although I can't really say anything about that for sure), and the fireplace I got has many more features than the one that's included.The included fireplace only has an on/off switch for the light and another for the heat. This other fireplace has a remote control and a thermometor, a timer, and brightness levels.Regardless of which unit you get, and whether you opt for a 3rd party fireplace, I recommend drilling some cable management holes for the cabinets and the shelves. If you get the TV stand without the fireplace there are cable management holes in the back of the shelves in the middle, but that's it. If you get the fireplace unit, there's conveniently a lot of space behind the fireplace to store a powerstrip and cables, but there is no cable management at all.I made a hole in the bottom corner of each cabinet and shelf and it works perfectly for me. All the cables go right to the back of the fireplace and plug into the power strip there.Keep in mind that when you're drilling the holes, the side you're drilling from will be the nicer looking end.Overall, I'm extrememly happy with this purchase. I'm glad I opted to get a 3rd party fireplace instead of the included one since I got a better quality fireplace and it ended up being cheaper than getting the one with it included. The small modifications to add some cable management to the cabinets and side shelves worked out perfectly and I can hide my ugly cable box and bluray player in the cabinet.The stand is the perfect size for my apartment and has a much better style than my last one. The fireplace gives an awesome atmosphere and also helps to heat the room.I don't regret this purchase at all.I do wish they would improve their packaging, though. I got lucky with minimal damage compared to other posts I've seen.
