We boxed the original mantel in using 3 rough cut 1 by 8s and custom cut end caps to make it look like an old barn beam.
The mantel was painted and stained to make the wood look old and distressed. Then we started nailing up the 72 inch beveled edged molding pieces. The tv bracket and wiring to the room behind it was added before completing the wood up to the peak of the cathedral ceiling.
The hard part was done. All we need to do is the lower portion.
Done!
View from the front.