Maybe the Coolest IKEA Cabinet Ever? How Designer Matilda Hunyadi Created This Bold Take on Wall Storage

This article details how home decor designer Yvonne Ellen transformed an IKEA Billy bookcase into a unique and personalized display cabinet, offering an affordable and creative solution for refreshing existing furniture. The Billy bookcase, known for its practicality and versatility as a shelving and book storage unit, can lose its appeal over time. This DIY trick provides a way to refresh it without significant expense. The transformation process begins with repainting the bookcase. Yvonne Ellen suggests utilizing existing paint pots for a budget-friendly approach. After cleaning the unit, pastel paints can be applied, with different colors layered for subtle or bold contrasts. For her project, Yvonne Ellen used Farrow & Ball Faded Terracotta for the exterior and LICK Green 09 for the interior of the cupboards, demonstrating a harmonious color combination. Next, the article highlights the importance of enhancing organization within the bookcase by adding rails, hooks, and storage boxes. Emphasizing the utilization of vertical space, Yvonne Ellen recommends installing items like gold rails and hooks, available at IKEA, to create hanging storage for items like teacups. Additional shelving, such as IKEA PALYCKE clip-on baskets and IKEA CISSAN napkin holders, can be incorporated to hold lightweight items, maximizing storage efficiency and organization within the unit. Another crucial step involves installing lighting to improve visibility within the display cabinet. Yvonne Ellen used a battery-powered motion-sensor light, easily sourced from online retailers like Amazon, to illuminate the contents. This simple addition enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the display. The final stage focuses on personalization through detailing. Yvonne Ellen considers this the most enjoyable part of the process, as it allows for a unique and exclusive finish. She applied gold leaf to the bevelled edges of the doors to match her personal style. The transformation is completed by adding decorative handles, such as the vintage-looking green and gold handles from Anthropologie, which contribute to a more expensive, art-deco appearance. This comprehensive approach demonstrates how a common furniture piece can be elevated into a bespoke display unit, allowing individuals to showcase their favorite items without needing to purchase new furniture. #IKEAHack #BillyBookcase #DIYHomeDecor #FurnitureTransformation #DisplayCabinet #HomeUpcycling #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecorating #StorageSolutions

The fluted motif, a trend initially popularized by fluted glass, has expanded to various furnishings, influencing a recent upcycling project that transforms a standard IKEA cabinet. This DIY endeavor centers on modifying an IKEA BESTA storage cabinet to achieve a bespoke appearance through the addition of fluted panelling and new gold hardware. This transformation elevates the flatpack furniture item into a stylish piece. Tom Revill, Creative Director at Plank Hardware, a company specializing in IKEA customization, notes that incorporating fluted motifs into cabinetry provides a contemporary reinterpretation of classic design elements. This approach can enhance kitchen cabinets or built-in storage units, offering a versatile and visually appealing upgrade for living spaces. The project is described as a beginner-friendly upcycling idea, suitable for refreshing outdated dressers or overlooked IKEA furniture pieces. The specific hack, detailed by interiors and DIY enthusiast Melanie Lissack (@melanielissackinteriors), involved converting a plain BESTA shelf unit with doors into a fluted lilac cabinet, complemented by a marble top. The initial step was to address the absence of handles on the original cabinet by drilling holes in the doors for new hardware. Subsequently, Lissack focused on sourcing materials for the fluted detailing. While options like MDF, plywood, or PVC are available, she opted for Orac Decor's 3D wall panelling due to its lightweight nature, which prevents the cabinet doors from becoming too heavy. These panels were cut to size and affixed to the BESTA doors using an adhesive. To achieve a smooth and integrated finish, Lissack applied caulk around the seams where the fluted panelling pieces met. The next phase involved painting the IKEA furniture, adhering to standard best practices for DIY paint projects. This included applying two coats of primer to the entire unit before painting the cabinet in a lilac shade. Upon the paint curing, statement gold hardware handles were attached to the cabinet, adding a touch of character. The transformation was completed by topping the cabinet with an off-cut of a marble kitchen splashback, serving as a tabletop. The final result is a distinctive and customized cabinet. Revill emphasizes that these DIY steps enable individuals to achieve the sophisticated look of fluted cabinetry without requiring professional installation, offering a rewarding and cost-effective method to revitalize existing furniture through creativity and effort. #IKEAHack #FlutedDesign #DIYHomeDecor #CabinetUpcycling #BespokeFurniture #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #MelanieLissackInteriors

The article explores the unconventional use of medicine cabinets as a functional and stylish storage solution in living spaces, moving beyond their traditional placement in bathrooms. Inspired by a viral TikTok IKEA hack, the author delves into how designers view this innovative approach to storage, particularly for hosting needs during peak seasons. The core idea revolves around utilizing vertical, wall-mounted storage to declutter floors and provide readily accessible space for dinnerware and drinks. Interior designers such as Lauren Saab of Saab Studios and Melissa Read of Studio Burntwood endorse this concept, highlighting its ability to streamline an area and prevent clutter from competing with seating, especially when guests are present. They emphasize that this type of storage creates 'breathing room' within the home. The discussion further elaborates on the aesthetic benefits of using mirrored medicine cabinets in living areas. Melissa Read points out that these units can serve a dual purpose, acting as decorative mirrors until opened, thereby discreetly concealing storage. This 'storage that disappears' approach is seen as a clever design choice. However, the article also acknowledges potential drawbacks, such as the increased need for cleaning mirrored surfaces due to fingerprints, dust, and streaks. To counteract this, designers suggest opting for treated mirrored units or selecting painted finishes that blend seamlessly with the wall color, camouflaging the storage unit to integrate it with the room's architecture. Practical considerations for implementing this storage solution are also addressed. Melissa Read advises careful planning regarding the space surrounding the cabinet to ensure doors can open fully. Crucially, the article stresses the importance of assessing the wall's ability to support the weight of the mounted unit, particularly if it will store heavy items like crockery and glassware. Furthermore, maximizing the cabinet's utility is encouraged through custom inserts, adjustable shelves, or hooks to enhance functionality. The article concludes by offering specific product recommendations to help readers adopt this trend, including an IKEA LETTAN Mirror Cabinet for a modern look, an Anthropologie Fern Wood Bathroom Wall Cabinet for a modern rustic aesthetic, and a Ferm Living Sill Wall Cabinet for contemporary homes. It also suggests complementary items like Soho Home Fluted Wine Glasses, Piglet in Bed Berry Gingham Linen Blend Napkins, and an H&M Fluted Glass Carafe to style the cabinets for hosting. The concept extends beyond living rooms, with wall-mounted cabinets also being proposed as effective entryway storage solutions, addressing a common lack of storage in these areas. #IKEAHack #HomeStorage #InteriorDesign #LivingRoomDecor #MirroredCabinets #SpaceSaving #HostingSolutions #HomeRenovation #FunctionalDesign

This article details a DIY project transforming an IKEA Ivar cabinet using electric blue paint and neutral tiles, a hack completed in a single afternoon by Anders and Christina Blom Monberg of In Bloom. The couple, based in Copenhagen, launched their company in 2017, offering interior design services and custom tile tables, alongside budget-friendly hacks shared primarily on their Instagram. Their approach emphasizes creativity and personalization of common IKEA furniture. The project focuses on customizing the Ivar cabinet, a piece the Monbergs have frequently hacked in the past, including variations with handwoven paneling and blue caning. For this particular transformation, Christina opted for a bold electric blue color, advising others to be daring with their color choices. The refurbished cabinet has become a prominent feature in their living room, showcasing a significant aesthetic upgrade from its original pine finish. The transformation process involves several key steps. First, twenty-two 21mm wide wood slats with rounded edges are cut to the length of the cabinet doors. These slats are then glued to the doors, with clamps used to ensure proper adhesion while the glue dries. The distance between the slats is determined either by precise measurement or by visual estimation, as Christina did for her project. Once the glue is dry, the entire surface, including the crevices between the slats, is painted with the chosen electric blue color. For the cabinet top, a 16mm medium-density fiberboard (MDF) piece is measured to a 31-by-12-inch rectangle, matching the cabinet's dimensions. Twelve 15x15 cm tiles are then cut to size using a tile cutter to fit this MDF base. The tiles are arranged in a desired pattern and glued onto the MDF. White sealant is applied between the tiles to form the joints, securing them not only to the MDF but also to each other, preventing movement. Next, extra wood slats, similar to those used for the cabinet fronts, are used to line the four edges of the tiled cabinet top. These slats are painted to match the cabinet and cut with angled ends to fit together seamlessly. If any gaps remain between the painted edges, small pieces of MDF are cut as fillers and painted over to blend in. The final step involves adding small, thin legs to the bottom of the cabinet. Christina chose 12-inch tall beechwood legs, which were then painted to complement the overall design. These legs can either be purchased or custom-made from spare wood. This project demonstrates how readily available and affordable IKEA furniture can be significantly elevated through creative DIY techniques, resulting in a unique and stylish piece that reflects personal taste and complements existing decor. The entire hack can be completed within an afternoon, offering a quick yet impactful renovation solution for home enthusiasts. #IKEAHack #DIYFurniture #CabinetRenovation #HomeDecor #ElectricBlue #TileWork #BudgetFriendlyDesign #CopenhagenDesign #InBloom

This article details a step-by-step IKEA HEMNES cabinet hack by Australian designer Nicole Rosenberg of @liberty.interiors, showcasing how to transform a standard flatpack unit into a high-end, boutique-style piece of furniture. The transformation incorporates a sweeping arch design, stylish rattan, and an all-black monochromatic scheme, aligning with contemporary interior design trends. The process begins with the preparation of the HEMNES unit. Nicole advises starting with the creation of the arch. She used a cardboard template to guide the cutting of an MDF piece, noting that craft wood or laminex could also be used. A key tip for achieving a perfect arch shape involves attaching a thin piece of timber and pivoting it to draw the curve. Once the arch piece was cut using a jigsaw, it was attached to the HEMNES unit with heavy-duty wood bonding glue and secured further with screws. To ensure a seamless finish, fiberglass putty was applied to fill the joins, followed by sanding to smooth the surface. The next phase involved modifying the cabinet doors. The original glass panels of the HEMNES unit were carefully removed using a drill. A practical recommendation provided is to smash the glass over a large bin to contain any loose shards, highlighting the importance of safety during this step. After the glass was removed, the entire unit was prepared for painting. Nicole applied a primer laminate, followed by two coats of black paint, emphasizing the need to sand between each coat for optimal results and a professional finish. Following the painting, rattan webbing was incorporated into the door panels. This was sourced online and cut to size, leaving adequate space for hot glue application around the edges. Before gluing, the webbing was stapled to secure it where the glass panels previously resided. The final touch involved attaching gold handles, chosen to complement the dark paint and rattan textures, thereby completing the sophisticated transformation. This IKEA hack demonstrates a method to elevate an affordable, mass-produced item into a unique and modern focal point for any home, reflecting popular interior trends. #IKEAHack #HEMNESCabinet #DIYFurniture #RattanDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #FurnitureTransformation #NicoleRosenberg #ModernHome

Upper kitchen cabinets are a surprisingly debated feature in home design, with some advocating for their removal to create more open space, while others find them indispensable for storage. This article caters to the latter group, offering insights into various upper kitchen cabinet styles to consider for renovation or design projects. The selection of cabinet fronts involves several considerations, such as cleaning habits, the desire to display items, and aesthetic preferences ranging from intricate details to contemporary glossiness. Unlike lower cabinets, upper cabinets offer extensive design possibilities. The article highlights five distinct styles, each suited to a different homeowner profile. For those who enjoy showcasing unique glassware and collectibles, 'doorless cabinets' are presented as an ideal option. This style allows for the display of curated items and can be easily adopted by renters by simply removing cabinet fronts. Examples include incorporating kitchen-friendly greenery, as seen in Sara Toufali's design, or maintaining a minimalist display with color-coordinated vessels, as designed by Jess Bunge. For individuals who appreciate displaying their dinnerware but prefer less upkeep than open shelving, 'glass doors' offer a practical solution. This design provides a visual showcase while protecting items from dust. Examples include plain white glass-front cabinets that blend seamlessly with the wall and those crafted from secondhand wood for a rustic appeal, creating an effect similar to a dinnerware museum. The 'categorical minimalist' will find sleek 'flip lift' devices appealing. This design avoids flashy hardware and detailed frames, promoting a clutter-free and seamless look. Jeremy and Kim Wilson’s raw-wood finish cabinets offer an organic feel, while Sam Buckley’s ombré setup demonstrates a more vibrant, yet equally streamlined, approach. Both variations emphasize minimal accoutrements for a clean aesthetic. For those who appreciate classic styles with a personalized touch, 'Shaker style' cabinets are recommended. Known for their recessed center and simple border, Shaker cabinets are versatile. The article showcases a cobalt blue Shaker kitchen designed by Anthony George, featuring a bold orange squiggle pattern on the walls, and a mint green pastel version in a Vancouver home. These examples illustrate how traditional cabinets can be enlivened with unique paint choices. Finally, for the 'low-maintenance decorator' seeking simplicity, regular 'slab doors' are the optimal choice. These cabinets are easy to clean due to their smooth surfaces, lacking crevices where dust can accumulate. They also serve as an excellent base for personalization; Brynn Jones enhanced her cream-hued slab doors with wood knobs, while Beata Heuman opted for a vibrant Kelly green wash. Even with basic styles, careful attention to details can elevate the overall design, demonstrating that upper kitchen cabinets can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, regardless of the chosen style. #KitchenDesign #Cabinetry #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #KitchenCabinets #DesignInspiration #HomeDecor #StorageSolutions

The IKEA FLORSJÖN Wall Shelf, a recent addition to IKEA's product line, offers a versatile and space-saving storage solution for any home. This long, slender shelf is constructed from durable steel and aluminum, featuring a distinct lip with rounded edges along its front to secure items. The back of the shelf extends downwards, incorporating three integrated hooks that provide additional hanging storage. The unit is designed in a light beige color, priced at $16.99, and measures 3 3/8 inches deep, 2 1/2 inches high, and 15 3/4 inches wide, making it compact enough to fit into various spaces without occupying significant room. Installation of the FLORSJÖN Wall Shelf requires mounting to a wall, and users have the option to either use their own wall screws or purchase the IKEA KROKSJÖN adhesive wall mounting kit. The kit includes two wall brackets and two glue syringes, providing an alternative to traditional screw-based installation. It is important to note that the shelf itself does not come with mounting supplies, so these must be acquired separately based on the chosen installation method and wall type. The utility of the FLORSJÖN Wall Shelf extends beyond its recommended placement in guest toilets, near washstands, or under mirrors, as suggested by IKEA. Its capacity to hold up to 18 pounds allows for diverse applications throughout the home. In an entryway, it can serve as a convenient spot for keys and wallets, utilizing both the shelf and hooks. In living rooms or hallways, it can display scented candles and framed photos while offering hooks for items like purses or charging cables. The shelf is also suitable for kitchen environments, where it can organize spice jars or hang utensils, demonstrating its adaptability to various organizational needs. This versatility makes the FLORSJÖN Wall Shelf a practical choice for individuals seeking to maximize storage in a minimalist manner. #IKEA #HomeOrganization #WallShelf #StorageSolutions #HomeDecor #SpaceSaving #InteriorDesign #FLORSJÖN

The article highlights that IKEA is not merely a source for "beginner" furniture but offers valuable, affordable items that interior designers frequently incorporate into their projects. Many people associate IKEA with initial apartment setups or Swedish meatballs, yet a significant number of designers recognize the brand for its quality and potential for customization, often surpassing expectations given the price points. This allows for both longevity of the pieces and an opportunity for personalized touches. IKEA provides a diverse range of decor and furnishings that are budget-friendly. Unlike some other affordable retailers, IKEA often carries an air of design credibility, with certain vintage items fetching high prices on platforms like 1st Dibs. The company consistently releases new collections aimed at design enthusiasts, as exemplified by its recent collaboration with Swedish designers Gustaf Westman and Evelina Kroon, announced in early June for a collection later in the year. This ongoing innovation and design focus challenge the perception of IKEA as solely for new graduates. Interior designers themselves demonstrate the versatility and appeal of IKEA products, integrating them into their homes in various creative ways. Examples include using IKEA kitchen cabinets as a base for customization and repurposing outdoor furniture. For instance, designer Sam Sacks utilized inexpensive IKEA chairs, similar to the Buskbo armchairs, and re-covered them in preferred fabrics to achieve an elevated aesthetic within a tight budget. She also employed an IKEA shelving unit, comparable to the ELVARLI system, to organize books, records, and a stereo system in her cottage's great room, creating a clean backdrop. Jessica Davis of Atelier Davis appreciates IKEA's current basic pieces for their affordability and minimalist design. She used the LACK shelving unit and KALLAX series for cubbies and benches in her children’s hallway. Additionally, Davis created an extra-long desk unit using the LAGKAPTEN/ALEX table bar system and customized plain IKEA SEKTION cabinets with unique hardware and a muted blue tone for her home studio. Meghan Jay, another designer, has relocated her IKEA Tärnö café set multiple times, praising its portability and French café aesthetic, even bringing it indoors for guests. Amber Guyton of Blessed Little Bungalow uses IKEA’s Färgklar dinnerware set daily, highlighting its quality despite its affordability. Noz Nozawa, a designer, favors the JUTHOLMEN modular outdoor sofa for its simple, boxy design, which allows her to invest in custom cushions to enhance its aesthetic appeal. She also commends IKEA’s HOVET mirror for its quality and value, noting its versatility across different design styles and spaces. Austin-based interior designer Lizzie Pincoffs transformed basic IKEA SEKTION kitchen cabinets by repainting and adding antique brass hardware. Lindsey Waters, an interior designer in Jacksonville, Florida, uses the KALLAX shelf unit with KNIPSA seagrass baskets for office storage, emphasizing its simplicity and functionality. Nina Grauer of Dekay & Tate utilizes IKEA's BESTA storage system, customizing it with unique hardware and furniture legs. Grauer also recommends LACK shelves for shoe storage and the EKENASET armchair, which can be upholstered to elevate its appearance. Emily Moss, a Florida-based interior designer, uses the handcrafted Alseda stool as a versatile accent piece. Cecile Gottlich of Studio Cecile praises the REGNSKUR/SUNNEBY light for its midcentury cocoon pendant aesthetic and affordability, noting its machine-washable shade. Finally, Gottlich incorporates JAMNMOD scented candles in curved glass, repurposing the containers for decorative purposes once the candles are used. #InteriorDesign #IKEAFinds #HomeDecor #DesignerTips #AffordableFurniture #Customization #StorageSolutions #ModernHome

Interior designer Melanie Lissack transformed IKEA Metod kitchen wall cabinets into a bespoke, floating media console for her narrow living room. Initially, Melanie sought a sleek, streamlined storage solution that offered more space than her previous freestanding unit, but faced budget constraints for custom carpentry or expensive marble tops. She opted for three IKEA Metod wall cabinets as the structural base, recognizing their potential for customization beyond typical kitchen use due to their slimline design and fuss-free doors. The original glossy, white melamine finish of the cabinets and the visible joins of the cut-to-size MDF top were aesthetically unappealing, prompting the need for a creative and cost-effective transformation. Melanie partnered with Cover Styl, a brand specializing in adhesive surface covers, to achieve a high-end look without the high cost. For the console's top, she selected 'NE70 Mat Beige Marble' film, which provided an incredibly realistic marble appearance, effectively concealing the MDF and its joins. For the base units, she chose 'AB06 Painted Wood' film to color match her walls, adding subtle texture and visual interest to the piece. This strategic use of self-adhesive films completely disguised the flat-pack origins of the IKEA units, transforming them into a sophisticated, contemporary media console with a soft, pastel hue. The project was completed in less than a weekend, showcasing the ease and speed with which IKEA hacks can be executed to achieve significant design impact. The resulting media unit not only provided ample storage, addressing Melanie's practical needs, but also enhanced the aesthetic of her living room with a Scandi-style elegance. The transformation demonstrated that with innovative materials and a designer's eye, budget-friendly IKEA furniture can be elevated to look entirely custom-made, integrating seamlessly into a home's decor and fulfilling specific design aspirations. Melanie expressed immense satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting how unrecognizable the unit became from its initial state, and praising the quality and realism of the Cover Styl films. #IKEAHack #MetodCabinet #MediaUnit #ScandiStyle #DIYHomeDecor #InteriorDesign #BudgetFriendly #FurnitureTransformation #CoverStyl

Ikea is renowned for its vast selection of furniture, home essentials, and decor, characterized by a minimalist and Scandinavian aesthetic that has been influential for decades. Their catalog features numerous cult-favorite items and long-standing bestsellers. For individuals seeking a comprehensive organizational overhaul for their home, Ikea presents itself as a prime destination. Navigating the extensive product range to identify suitable options can be challenging, but focusing on the brand's most popular items and series offers a practical starting point, given their proven success with a broad customer base globally. This article highlights ten of Ikea's top organizing and storage solutions, consistently recognized as bestsellers year after year. These products cater to a variety of needs, from smaller organizers for minor home upgrades to complete closet systems. The selection aims to streamline the decision-making process for customers looking to enhance their home organization. Among the featured products is the Billy bookcase, a versatile and affordable bookshelf celebrating its 40th anniversary, available in various colors, sizes, and configurations. The Räskog Utility Cart, a highly adaptable item, offers myriad possibilities for small storage in different spaces, serving purposes from kitchen organization to a movable gardening station. The Kallax shelf unit series stands out as another classic, offering diverse sizes and shapes, popular for use as room dividers and customizable with various inserts such as drawers and doors. The Skadis pegboard combination is presented as a smart, versatile organizing solution, fully customizable with accessories or available in ready-made combinations, ideal for diverse applications like a wall-mounted bedside table. The Elvari storage system is noted for its customizable, adjustable, and adaptable design, easily disassembled for relocation or space rearrangement. It is particularly suitable for apartments lacking built-in closets or for enhancing existing closet organization. Another highly versatile closet system is the Algot, designed to create storage in various rooms including bathrooms, laundry rooms, pantries, and hallways, functioning effectively as an open wardrobe or closet organizer. The Eket series offers more than just wall-mounted cubby systems, providing a wide array of storage cabinet options that can be stacked, hung, or combined to add personality while organizing belongings. The Svalnäs shelf series, crafted from bamboo, includes individual shelves and other wall-mounted storage solutions, all featuring compartments for enhanced organization. The Komplement Series is highlighted for its perfect compatibility with the Pax system, one of Ikea's most popular and customizable closet systems. These pull-out trays and interior organizers significantly contribute to a neater wardrobe. Finally, the Ivar Shelving Unit with Table, celebrating its 50th anniversary, is recognized for its numerous configurations and its sustainable construction from leftover wood, making it an affordable and environmentally conscious choice. These ten products represent Ikea's commitment to functional, versatile, and popular home organization solutions. #Ikea #HomeOrganization #StorageSolutions #Furniture #ScandinavianDesign #Bestsellers #InteriorDesign #ClosetSystems #SmallSpaceLiving

Interior designer Thayná Alves transformed basic white IKEA Lack shelves into a unique decorative feature for a musician's home office. The inspiration for this hack came from a pair of Air Jordan 11s, specifically their round laces, which reminded Alves of hiking rope. The client's office, adorned with Supreme skateboards, a Kaws statue, and vintage Porsche posters, needed a shelving solution that was less conventional than the standard IKEA offering. The initial purpose of the shelves was to conceal old laundry hookups in the wall, and Alves aimed to integrate them more seamlessly with the room's eclectic style. Alves sourced six different colors of climbing rope from a local REI store, noting that outdoor supply stores often provide a wider variety of colors and thicker materials compared to general hardware stores. The entire modification process for the shelves took approximately one hour. The project involved creating decorative, non-functional brackets using the climbing rope, giving the shelves a distinctive, shoelace-inspired upgrade. The supplies required for this DIY project include an IKEA Lack shelf, climbing cord, a drill, circular metal rings, two spring links, two cup hooks, hot glue, scissors, and painter’s tape. The first step involves setting up the shelf's original bracket onto the wall studs and attaching the shelf to ensure proper alignment. Two cup hooks are then screwed into the wall above the shelf, from which the spring links are hung. The shelf itself is temporarily removed from its hardware. The next critical step is to carefully drill four holes, one in each corner, through the shelf. Alves emphasizes caution, as the shelves are primarily made of cardboard and can easily crack if too much pressure is applied. To mitigate this risk, painter’s tape is applied along the long edges of the shelf to provide support during drilling. After drilling, the shelves are reattached to their brackets. Following this, metal rings are placed around each of the eight drilled openings and secured with hot glue. This step serves to cover the potentially rough edges created by the drilling process, giving the finished product a clean and professional appearance, especially if the MDF chipped during drilling. The final and most intricate step involves weaving the rope through the holes. Given that the interior of the shelf is hollow, a technique is employed to facilitate this: a slice of painter’s tape is shaped into a cone around the end of the climbing cord, providing extra weight and a pointed tip to guide the rope through both holes more easily. A generous amount of cord is pulled through to reach the spring link and feed back through the other set of holes. This process is repeated for both sides of the shelf. The cord is then cut, and the ends are tied off with a single knot, completing the custom shelf hack. #IKEAHack #DIYHomeDecor #ShelvingSolution #CreativeDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeOffice #RenovationIdeas #CustomFurniture

The article details a design editor's experience discovering a versatile IKEA storage solution, the Elvarli Open Storage unit, after an extensive search for an aesthetically pleasing way to display a new luxury handbag. The author, an IKEA connoisseur with a long history of incorporating IKEA pieces into her home, sought a display that would elevate her accessory to an art piece, drawing inspiration from various designers' creative ways of showcasing personal collections, such as Robert McKinley's straw hat arrangements, Cortney Novogratz's necklace display, and Carla Rockmore's two-story closet. Initially considering options like floating shelves and plastic boxes, the author noted the growing popularity of slanted shelving in the design community for showcasing design books and other items. This led to the idea that a similar setup could make her designer bags feel like art on an easel. The search culminated in an unexpected section of the IKEA store: closet storage, an area the author typically found overwhelming due to its perfectly arranged, yet seemingly unattainable, displays for her small closet. Despite an initial aversion to the closet section, the Elvarli Open Storage unit immediately caught her attention. Its key attributes included simplicity, size, and versatility, characterized by a streamlined design with two posts and adjustable floating, slanted shelves. The unit can span from floor to ceiling, extend up to 137 inches, and accommodate up to 10 shelves, which can be customized in terms of spacing. A small ledge on each shelf prevents items from sliding off. The article highlights the unit's unexpected versatility beyond its intended use for shoes, suggesting its suitability for art books, magazines, and designer handbags. A significant advantage for renters is that it does not require permanent ceiling affixing. The author describes the assembly process as quick, taking less than 30 minutes. She has positioned the unit next to her dresser, where it proudly displays her handbag, transforming it into a "chic bookshelf" rather than a mere closet organizer. Looking beyond its current use, the author envisions the Elvarli unit in various home settings, such as a playroom for displaying children's art or a dining area for tabletop pieces. IKEA experts even suggest using multiple units as a room divider, sparking further ideas for its potential applications. The discovery of this adaptable and stylish piece has led the author to jokingly consider purchasing more designer bags to fill the display. #IKEA #ElvarliStorage #HomeOrganization #DesignTips #InteriorDesign #AccessoryDisplay #StorageSolutions #HomeDecor #Furniture

Judith Achumba-Wöllenstein, founder of Atelier Akuko, transformed standard IKEA Ivar cabinets into unique, sculptural furniture pieces for under $100 after facing a common design dilemma. Upon moving from Germany to London in 2016, she and her husband, Timothy, had an unusually sized mattress for which they couldn't find a suitable bed frame. Their solution was to combine several IKEA Ivar cabinets to create a platform bed, which also provided ample storage. When they purchased a new two-bedroom apartment in 2018, the lower ceilings rendered their makeshift bed frame unsuitable. With five Ivar cabinets remaining after gifting and selling some, Judith decided to repurpose them into distinct decorative elements. She aimed for furniture with a "quirky personality, almost anthropomorphic," drawing inspiration from artists like Constantin Brâncusi and Garance Vallée for the bas-relief effect. The transformation process involved two distinct hacks: the 'Ball Cabinet' and the 'Relief Ivars.' For the 'Ball Cabinet' hack, costing approximately $220, Judith transformed one Ivar cabinet into a stand-alone living room unit. The required supplies included an Ivar cabinet, wood paint, untreated wood bowls, bolts, a drill, a laser level, aluminum round tubes, and wood glue. The process began with painting the entire cabinet, inside and out, with black gloss wood paint. After assembly, Judith meticulously measured and marked a grid on the cabinet panels using a laser level to determine the placement of 60 wood balls. The balls were then screwed onto the cabinet from the inside, with pre-drilled holes for easier attachment, and secured with wood glue. The final step involved attaching aluminum round tubes as legs. Eight bolts were screwed into the cabinet's base to allow the tubes, custom-cut from a single long pipe, to slide on. Tubing plugs were suggested for floor protection. The result was a piece that housed records, video games, extension cords, and glassware. The 'Relief Ivars' hack, costing $96, involved transforming the remaining four cabinets for an office that later became a nursery. The supplies included Ivar cabinets, foam sheets, scissors, paper, wood glue, a pencil, and paint. Judith first painted the cabinets with Crown Paint’s Fine Silk in a gloss finish, contrasting with the matte walls. She then sketched various shapes, inspired by Brâncusi's Paris studio, on paper. These templates were printed or cut out and taped to the cabinets to finalize size and placement. Once satisfied, the shapes were cut from foam sheets, glued onto the cabinet, and painted to match. While effective for a few years, Judith noted that foam was not ideal for durability, especially with a child, and suggested using thin sheets of plywood or MDF, cut with a jigsaw or CNC machine, and secured with wood filler or caulk for a more permanent solution. These projects demonstrate how basic materials and creative vision can elevate off-the-shelf furniture into bespoke, artistic statements. #IKEAHack #DIYFurniture #HomeRenovation #SculpturalFurniture #BudgetDecor #IvarCabinets #DesignInspiration #CustomFurniture #HomeDecoration

This article details a creative IKEA hack that transforms an entryway alcove into a functional and stylish storage seating area using METOD kitchen cabinets. The project was conceived and executed by home renovator Linnéa Martinsson, known on Instagram as @krigadalsgard, who regularly shares her DIY improvements to her Swedish home. The hack leverages the versatility of IKEA's METOD cabinets, demonstrating their potential beyond traditional kitchen use. The inspiration for this DIY project stemmed from the homeowner's desire for a built-in seating area in their entryway, which offered a paneled alcove perfect for a custom storage solution. Prior to this, a hat shelf was custom-made for hanging jackets and coats. The subsequent seating nook serves a dual purpose: providing a convenient spot for putting on boots and preparing for the outdoors, while also offering storage for hats, scarves, and shoes. The project combines practicality with aesthetic appeal, resulting in a calming and inviting entryway. The construction process involved several key steps and materials. Linnéa utilized three METOD wall cabinet frames from IKEA, each measuring 60x37x40, along with a Maximize box insert for added storage. For the drawer fronts, she selected the BODBYN design, which contributes to the project's refined appearance. Essential tools for the project included measuring tape, a pencil, a screwdriver, and a saw. The initial phase of construction involved cutting timber frames to create a base along the bottom of the alcove. This base served to elevate the seating to an appropriate height and to provide a seamless integration with the existing skirting board, giving the illusion of a custom-built unit. After preparing the base, the three METOD cabinets were assembled and securely fixed to it. A wooden panel, purchased separately, was then used for the seat. This panel was treated with a wood stain to achieve a dark oiled effect, enhancing its natural beauty and complementing the overall design. The wooden seat was attached to the top surface of the cabinets, extending slightly wider than the cabinets themselves to create an overhang or 'lip' over the drawers. Thin boards were installed between each cabinet to further reinforce the built-in aesthetic. A significant element of the hack's transformation was the application of color. Linnéa opted for a gentle sage green paint, specifically "Green Harmony" from Jotun, for the cabinets. The paneling of the alcove was painted in "Pale Linden," also from Jotun, maintaining a cohesive green theme. This calming color palette works harmoniously with the delicate Wilma Green wallpaper from Sandberg Wallpaper, which adorns the top section of the wall. Brass hardware was selected for the drawers, providing a warm contrast to the sage green and adding a touch of elegance. The careful selection of colors and materials ensures that the entryway design integrates beautifully with the rest of Linnéa's home, which features shiplap walls and ceilings, and consistent use of METOD cabinets and sage green color schemes in other areas, such as the kitchen. This attention to detail creates a wonderfully cohesive and flowing living space. #IKEAHack #EntrywayDesign #StorageSolutions #DIYHomeDecor #METODCabinets #BuiltInSeating #SageGreen #ScandiStyle #HomeRenovation

Curiosity cabinets have a rich history, originating as an aristocratic pastime to entertain guests and demonstrate social standing through collections of oddities and keepsakes. Today, these cabinets continue to be a unique way to store and display personal treasures, ranging from antique chests to modern arrangements. The key to a successful curiosity cabinet lies in personalization and thoughtful consideration, transforming a mere storage unit into a distinctive feature of a home. Jill Franks, an interior designer at Freemodel, emphasizes that even with a trendy cabinet, the selection of pieces is what truly creates individuality and transformation. To begin styling a curiosity cabinet, it is recommended to clear the space completely and organize items into large, medium, and small categories. The process involves strategically placing larger items first, ensuring a balanced distribution across shelves to avoid any single area appearing too heavy. Subsequently, medium and smaller items are arranged, and height can be added using platforms for smaller pieces or incorporating elements like branches in vases. Creating the desired mood is another critical aspect of styling a curiosity cabinet. Lighting plays a significant role in establishing ambiance; gentle, hidden lights can illuminate small spaces, while sconces might be used for larger areas. Franks suggests experimenting with arrangements and being open to changing pieces if the look and feel are not quite right, sometimes finding that "less is more." Homeowners should also consider rotating items to maintain a dynamic display rather than a static one. Personal mementos and art with a story are essential for infusing the cabinet with meaning and personality. This involves sifting through personal belongings for items that evoke special memories, such as old family photos, sculptures from antique stores, or artisan crafts from travels. The narrative behind each item adds a layer of depth and interest to the display, making it truly unique to the homeowner. Books are also valuable additions to a curiosity cabinet, providing both visual appeal and a sense of intellectual depth. They can be stacked vertically or laid horizontally, with small treasures placed atop them. Franks suggests experimenting with displaying books by their bindings or with pages showing, depending on the desired mood. Pairing books with related mementos can further enhance the thematic coherence of the display. Finally, Franks encourages homeowners not to adhere strictly to conventional design rules, but rather to prioritize what makes them happy. While foundational design principles can be helpful, rigid adherence to concepts like grouping items in threes is not always necessary. Varying the number of items per grouping and ensuring shelves are not uniformly styled can create a more organic and visually engaging display that reflects the unique character and collected history of the homeowner. #CuriosityCabinet #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #StylingTips #Personalization #HomeOrganization #CollectibleDisplay #DesignStrategy

The smallest details can significantly impact home decor, and cabinet hardware, while often overlooked, plays a crucial role in defining a space's aesthetic. The right hardware can transform the look of kitchens, bathrooms, or furniture pieces. This article explores a variety of unique and unexpected cabinet hardware designs that go beyond typical knobs and handles seen over the past decades. The evolution of hardware includes not only diverse finishes and designs but also changes in placement, such as using single long handles for wider drawers to achieve a cleaner look. The article highlights options ranging from sleek, minimalist architectural pulls and irregularly shaped handles to ornate scroll designs, retro latches, and onyx-adorned knobs. These unconventional choices infuse personality into a home and enhance both the visual appeal and functionality of cabinets and drawers. Whether a homeowner is looking to replace outdated kitchen hardware or simply desires something distinctive, these whimsical alternatives aim to inspire creativity across various interior design aesthetics. Among the unique options presented are irregular-shaped hardware, which adds visual interest and a sculptural quality that breaks the monotony of traditional flat designs. For music enthusiasts, musical note-shaped handles offer a retro vibe, crafted from materials like chrome-coated brass for a striking statement. Architectural hardware, characterized by clean, symmetric lines and geometric shapes, provides a bold, modern accent suitable for contemporary or minimalist homes. Jaguar handles, particularly brass designs, serve as a blend of art and function, bringing a quirky, luxurious touch with meticulous handcrafted details that can complement maximalist nature-inspired trends. Marble handles introduce elegance, with natural, irregular veining making each piece unique, available in various colors from deep burgundy to off-white, fitting styles from rustic to cottage-core. Bird-shaped knobs, like solid brass bird cabinet pulls, offer a whimsical yet elegant design, providing functional handles with sculpted silhouettes that bring warmth and character. Toothbrush and toothpaste-themed handles are presented as a quirky and fresh option for bathrooms, available in antique metal finishes. Onyx handles offer a premium, timeless, and luxurious feel with their iridescent glow and diverse color choices. Carrara-inspired handles mimic the colors and veining of Carrara marble, offering texture and an organic style suitable for contemporary or glam aesthetics, fitting well in rustic kitchens or luxurious bathrooms. Swan knobs, made from solid brass, feature intricate details that capture the bird's form, serving as both functional and decorative accents that add a stylish metallic pop to various furniture pieces. Retro latches, such as small oval cupboard latches, provide a vintage-inspired look for kitchen cabinets and armoires, crafted from high-quality forged brass in various metal finishes. Lastly, the "thinking man" handle, made from solid gold brass, is a statement-making piece featuring a seated figure, aligning with the trend of oversized hardware, while ornate scroll handles add regal, old-world charm with intricate scrollwork and vintage-inspired details, enhancing furniture with craftsmanship and sophistication. #CabinetHardware #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #UniqueHardware #DesignTrends #HomeImprovement #FurnitureHardware