Mums are sharing their stunning Ikea hacks as they use the storage to make beds, desks and kids’ room dividers

Erin McGill, a creative mother, successfully transformed a single children's bedroom into two distinct personal spaces for her children by implementing a DIY room divider project. Utilizing affordable materials primarily sourced from Ikea and B&Q, McGill embarked on this ambitious undertaking to address the need for individual space for her kids. The project involved a significant amount of hands-on work, including sawing pieces of wood to custom fit the room, installing slats, and meticulously painting each side of the room divider in different colors to personalize the newly created areas. The core of the transformation involved the clever integration of Kallax units from Ikea, which were adapted to function as bed frames. These units are well-known for their modularity and storage capabilities, offering a practical solution for maximizing space in the partitioned room. The room dividers themselves were Karalis units purchased from B&Q, chosen for their suitability for creating a clear separation within the existing room layout. McGill noted that while the dividers were generally easy to install, she encountered a challenge with their height, requiring her to build them up to properly fit her room – a task she managed independently. The project was executed with a strong focus on cost-effectiveness, with the Ikea bargains starting from £9 and the B&Q room dividers costing £57. This budget-friendly approach made the extensive room makeover accessible. McGill documented her process and shared the impressive results with the Facebook group 'DIY On A Budget UK.' Her post detailed the step-by-step transformation, including photographs from the initial stages to the completed project, showcasing her dedication and skill. The online community's reaction to McGill's DIY endeavor was overwhelmingly positive. Her post garnered over 1,800 likes and hundreds of comments from individuals praising her ingenuity and the remarkable outcome. Many users expressed admiration for her DIY skills, with comments highlighting the 'amazing' transformation and the 'fabulous' idea. The integration of Kallax units for beds was particularly lauded for providing additional storage, a common challenge in children's rooms. The overall sentiment reflected appreciation for her resourcefulness and the significant improvement in functionality and aesthetics achieved through her independent efforts. This DIY project serves as an inspiring example of how creative problem-solving and budget-conscious design can lead to significant home improvements, particularly in creating personalized and functional spaces for children within a shared room. McGill's ability to undertake and complete the entire project herself further resonated with the DIY community, emphasizing the potential for individuals to achieve professional-looking results with determination and practical skills. #DIYHomeImprovement #KidsRoomIdeas #IkeaHacks #RoomDivider #ParentingSolutions #BudgetDecor #SpaceSaving

The article explores six ingenious IKEA hacks specifically designed for children's bedrooms, emphasizing how these creative solutions can transform a child's space into a multi-functional area for sleep, play, study, and creativity. It highlights that kids' bedrooms require more than just a place to sleep; they need to accommodate various activities, which can quickly consume space if not managed effectively. The hacks presented aim to optimize small bedroom spaces and cater to the diverse needs of children. The first hack focuses on the KALLAX series, a popular choice for toy storage. The innovation lies in utilizing KALLAX inserts, specifically the KVISSLE letter tray, for organizing toys and books. This method allows for both visible display and concealed storage, making it versatile for different types of items. Alternatives to the KALLAX unit from other retailers like Dunelm, Wayfair, and Argos are also suggested for those seeking similar cube storage solutions. The second hack re-purposes the SIGFINN Monitor Stand from IKEA. This seemingly ordinary item is transformed into a creative play element—a ramp or bridge for toy cars. The author suggests pairing it with flexible toy road sets to enhance the play experience, demonstrating how a simple office accessory can become a fun and engaging toy for a child. Next, the article details a DIY rotating bookcase using three SNUDDA Lazy Susans from IKEA, along with plywood and other hardware. This hack addresses the challenge of organizing an expanding book collection in a small space, creating a functional and space-saving library that encourages reading. A step-by-step guide is referenced through an Instagram reel for those interested in replicating the project. The fourth hack utilizes the MOSSLANDA Picture Ledge as a forward-facing book display. This solution is presented as a particularly effective option for small bedrooms where a traditional bulky bookcase might not fit. The affordability of the MOSSLANDA ledge is highlighted, making it an accessible and stylish option for many households. Alternative picture ledges from Dunelm, Habitat, and Next are also mentioned. Another significant hack involves constructing a 'learning tower' from an IKEA ODDVAR stool and BEKVAM step stool. This Montessori-inspired tool promotes independence by allowing children to safely participate in kitchen activities, reach high shelves, or wash their hands. The article acknowledges the high cost of commercially available learning towers and offers this DIY alternative as a budget-friendly solution, again referencing an Instagram reel for detailed instructions and listing the necessary materials. Finally, the OSTBIT Plate Holder is presented as a highly economical and simple storage solution. This item, costing less than five pounds, is adapted to display books, puzzles, and flexible road tracks, making them easily accessible for young children. This hack is highlighted for its minimal effort and cost-effectiveness, contributing to overall bedroom organization. An alternative plate holder from Amazon is also provided for convenience. The article concludes by emphasizing the versatility and broad applicability of these hacks for both boys' and girls' bedrooms, encouraging readers to visit IKEA for their next DIY project. #IKEAHacks #KidsBedroomDecor #DIYHomeDecor #SpaceSavingSolutions #ChildrensStorage #MontessoriInspired #BudgetFriendlyDecor #CreativePlaySpaces

Living in a home with limited or no closet space presents a common challenge for many, regardless of the size of their dwelling. While typical organizational tools like velvet hangers and shelf dividers are helpful for existing closets, they offer no solution for homes entirely lacking in storage. This article explores six creative and practical strategies for decluttering and organizing belongings in such challenging environments, ranging from repurposed furniture to custom-built solutions and clever IKEA hacks. One effective solution is to incorporate an antique armoire. These free-standing wardrobes serve as an excellent substitute for built-in closets, especially in bedrooms. When selected with depth and height in mind, an antique armoire not only provides substantial storage but also adds significant character to a room, making its footprint a worthwhile trade-off for its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Examples such as editor Hudson Moore's studio demonstrate how an armoire can integrate seamlessly into a living space, offering a stylish storage option. Another innovative approach involves utilizing open spaces, such as an entryway, for storage. Stylist Julia Stevens and her roommates transformed their closet-less apartment's entryway into a functional "walk-in closet" using IKEA's Mulig clothes bars. This affordable hack ($36) creates a showroom-like display for clothes, proving that even a narrow hallway can be optimized for storage. Repurposing existing furniture is also a smart strategy. Stevens, in her own studio apartment, ingeniously reused IVAR cabinets as a media credenza and catchall. By elevating these cupboards on wooden legs, she created a 95-inch-wide unit capable of storing a diverse array of items, from winter accessories and handbags to emergency gifts and liquor, highlighting the versatility of modular furniture. For bulkier items, under-bed storage is an ideal solution. Stevens uses an IKEA Malm storage bed, which features a lift-up mechanism for easy access to items like towels, extra bedding, books, and winter coats. This method maximizes often-unused space beneath the bed, keeping less frequently needed items out of sight but readily accessible. Custom solutions can be particularly effective in tiny homes. London-based designer Louise Glynn, for instance, implemented custom plywood elements in her 430-square-foot home. She commissioned an extra-long sideboard in the dining area to store linens, cleverly concealing a radiator and doubling as a bench. Furthermore, she designed a small, elevated landing at the entryway with a pull-out drawer underneath, providing discreet storage for shoes and maintaining a clutter-free entrance. Finally, integrating storage into built-in benches offers both functionality and aesthetic appeal. In a New York City apartment designed by Rachel Sloane Sherman, a custom bench features rows of drawers with customized shoe slots. The bench cushions are adorned with unique fabric, making it a functional and visually engaging piece that keeps shoes organized and out of sight. This solution demonstrates that even a typically utilitarian space like a coat closet can be transformed into a stylish and efficient storage area. These diverse strategies collectively illustrate that with creativity and thoughtful planning, a lack of traditional closet space does not have to compromise home organization or design. #HomeOrganization #SmallSpaceLiving #StorageSolutions #IKEAHacks #InteriorDesign #CustomFurniture #Decluttering #HousekeepingTips #CreativeStorage

Mudrooms are an invaluable addition to any home, offering a dedicated space to manage the clutter of outdoor essentials like coats, hats, bags, and shoes. Often situated off the main entrance, mudrooms can also serve multiple functions, such as utility rooms, pantries, or even pet areas. While their primary purpose is functionality, this article explores how mudrooms can also be aesthetically pleasing and seamlessly integrated into a home's design, particularly through the use of IKEA hacks. IKEA products are well-suited for these transformations due to their affordability, versatility, and ease of customization, allowing homeowners to achieve stylish, built-in looks without the high cost of custom cabinetry. The article highlights ten creative IKEA mudroom hacks, each demonstrating a unique approach to maximizing space, enhancing organization, and elevating the room's design. One popular method involves utilizing the IKEA Besta series to construct chic built-in benches and cabinets. This hack, as exemplified by Hanna of @homeathand, combines Besta units for seating and storage, along with IKEA Pax wardrobes for coat closets. The process includes building a platform, assembling and installing cabinets, framing gaps for a seamless built-in appearance, and painting all elements, including IKEA doors, to create a cohesive and sophisticated finish. Vintage hooks and salvaged architectural details further personalize the space. Another innovative hack leverages the IKEA Billy bookcase to create bright, modern mudrooms. Steph of @henrikjunehome transformed her garage entrance, which had become a catch-all for family items, by securing Billy bookcases to studs, adding height extenders and Oxberg doors to conceal clutter. She also incorporated a bench, floating shelves, and budget-friendly shiplap, emphasizing that these DIY projects are achievable even for beginner builders. The result is an organized space that keeps daily chaos behind closed doors. For a modern farmhouse aesthetic, the IKEA Kallax unit proves to be a versatile base for a storage bench. Michelle of @houseonforesttrail modified a Kallax unit by adding 'feet' to give it a bench-like appearance and accessorized it with faux fur rugs for texture. An IKEA Mosslanda picture ledge with hooks provides a practical and decorative element for hanging coats and displaying artwork. The IKEA Pax system is also highlighted for creating robust mudroom 'closets,' as shown by Jennifer of @spikedteaandpeonies. Her family of six benefited from Pax units with shelves, hooks, and drawers, including dedicated baskets for each family member. Grimo doors and Borghamn handles, along with custom framing and crown molding, give the units a custom, built-in look. The adaptability of IKEA products is further demonstrated by transforming a mudroom into a multi-functional playroom. Emily of @emilyyew.co used a large IKEA Kallax unit as a room divider, offering both storage and spatial definition. Later, she reconfigured the space with smaller Kallax units and an IKEA Hemnes boot cabinet, enhancing organization and adding stylish leather pulls for a refined touch. Awkward spaces can also be reimagined, as detailed by Lisa of The Coe Files, who used Semihandmade doors on IKEA Sektion kitchen cabinets to create a high-end mudroom. This hack involves upgrading the basic IKEA boxes with custom fronts, complemented by black hexagonal tiles, hardware, and a wooden bench, illustrating how budget-friendly options can achieve luxurious results. Multi-use mudrooms can integrate a sink area, making them ideal for tasks like washing muddy paws or refilling watering cans, as showcased by Gina Rachelle Design using IKEA Sektion units and Semihandmade Supermatte Shaker fronts. Floating maple shelves and vibrant honeycomb tiles complete this practical and visually appealing space. The article also suggests turning a mudroom into a second pantry, using IKEA Metod cabinets with Semihandmade Supermatte Shaker fronts and a sink, as conceptualized by Heidi Noelle Designs. This setup provides ample storage for entertaining essentials and even includes a built-in crate for pets, with gold handles adding a touch of glamour. Integrating a mudroom with a utility room is another efficient hack, demonstrated by Beth of 111 Light Lane. By combining IKEA Sektion bases with a sink, storage bench, wall hooks, and laundry appliances, she created a bright and durable space with a modern-classic aesthetic, proving that style and quality are achievable on a budget. Finally, for smaller homes, the article emphasizes maximizing limited mudroom space with IKEA Sektion units. Tori of @thehouseofsweeney utilized 18-inch wide pantry cabinets with drawers to store shoes, hats, and gloves, keeping the entry point tidy. A custom floating bench and shiplap feature with hooks further enhance the custom look and functionality of this compact mudroom. These examples collectively underscore the potential of IKEA mudroom hacks to create organized, stylish, and highly functional spaces tailored to diverse needs and design preferences. #IKEAHacks #MudroomDesign #HomeOrganization #DIYHomeDecor #StorageSolutions #InteriorDesign #IKEACustomization #FunctionalSpaces #BudgetDecor

The article showcases various ingenious methods employed by parents to maximize space and create individual zones for children sharing small bedrooms, often referred to as 'box rooms.' A common challenge for families, especially those with multiple children, is making a tiny room functional and personalized for each occupant. The solutions presented range from specialized furniture to creative room dividers and storage systems. High sleeper beds emerge as a prominent and highly effective solution. These elevated beds free up significant floor space underneath, which can then be utilized for a variety of purposes. Examples include transforming the area into a desk for studying, adding storage drawers, or even placing a cot for a younger sibling. One mother successfully used high sleepers to accommodate her two daughters, and when a new baby was expected, she considered similar strategies. Another parent creatively designed custom high sleepers for her three girls, incorporating themes like Harry Potter and 101 Dalmatians, demonstrating how personal touches can still be integrated into space-saving designs. These custom builds often involve using readily available materials like Kallax storage units and MDF plywood, making them a cost-effective option for many families. For those who find high sleepers too tall, mid-sleeper beds are introduced as a slightly lower alternative that still offers under-bed space for storage or play areas, as exemplified by a mother who purchased one from Argos and paired it with IKEA Kallax cubes. For families with more than two children sharing a room, triple bunkbeds are presented as a practical solution. One mother, Jackie Bennett, used triple bunkbeds for her three children, aged five, seven, and eight, enabling them to fit all beds into a small room while leaving ample space for storage and play. Similarly, a mother of eight, Julie Rawlinson, opted for two sets of custom-built bunkbeds to accommodate four of her daughters, allowing each child to personalize their space despite the shared environment. Beyond specialized beds, temporary room dividers offer a flexible way to create separate zones within a single room. These dividers, available from retailers like B&Q, can be painted to match any decor and are praised by parents for providing much-needed privacy. Furniture items, such as IKEA's Kallax shelving units, are also repurposed as room dividers, often providing additional storage simultaneously. One thrifty mother even separated an existing bunkbed into two single beds and used a £10 box shelf as a divider to carve out distinct areas for her daughters. In terms of decoration and organization, the article highlights innovative approaches. A 'toy wall' was created by one mother to store her son's Lego and other toys, effectively freeing up floor space and adding a unique decorative element. These examples collectively demonstrate that with creative planning and the right products, even the smallest box rooms can be transformed into functional, organized, and personalized spaces for multiple children, fostering individuality and minimizing clutter. #ParentingTips #SmallSpaceLiving #KidsBedroomIdeas #HomeOrganization #DIYHomeDecor #FamilyLife #RoomDividers #BunkBeds #HighSleepers

The IKEA MOSSLANDA picture ledge, known for its minimalist yet functional design, offers extensive versatility beyond its intended use for displaying photos. Introduced in 2015, this product comes in two lengths (21 ¾ inches and 45 ¼ inches) and various colors like white, black, oak, and bamboo, starting at $9.99. Its unique design features a groove for setting items and a rail to prevent them from falling, making it suitable for a multitude of organizational and decorative purposes throughout the home. Many alternative applications require no physical modifications to the ledge, while others can be enhanced with simple customizations such as hooks, LED lights, or decorative trim to integrate seamlessly with existing decor. One popular alternative use for the MOSSLANDA ledge is displaying vinyl records, a favorite among record collectors. Unlike bulkier storage solutions, these ledges provide a budget-friendly way to showcase one to two full-size records or several 45s, allowing for the creation of an entire album wall. In the kitchen, the MOSSLANDA can transform into an efficient spice rack when mounted on the wall, holding spice containers or small tea canisters. It can also be inverted and placed in a drawer to create risers for spice organization, preventing items from sliding with the addition of a shelf liner. For children's rooms, the ledges are frequently used to create wall libraries, holding children's books at an accessible height. Creative individuals have further customized these shelves with decorative elements like bobbin borders. The MOSSLANDA can also be integrated with other IKEA products to form unique furniture pieces, such as a side table made by gluing three ledges together and topping them with a painted tray. Additionally, in entryways, the ledge serves as a slim landing zone for keys, wallets, and other daily essentials, with the option to add hooks for bags and keys. Beyond these applications, the MOSSLANDA is effective for toy storage, accommodating small items like toy cars, LEGO builds, and action figures securely. It can function as open shelving in the kitchen for storing cutting boards, commonly used ingredients, or cookbooks. In spaces with radiators, an inverted picture ledge can serve as a radiator shelf, provided a two to four-inch gap is maintained for heat circulation. For plant enthusiasts, these shelves can expand available plant storage, especially when installed across windows to maximize sunlight exposure. In tight spaces, the MOSSLANDA helps create functional areas like a floating vanity by mounting two ledges above and below a lit mirror. It can also form a coffee mug station in kitchens or dining rooms, with additional hooks for mug collectors. For board game enthusiasts, four mounted MOSSLANDA shelves can be combined with an IKEA tabletop to create a custom game table, providing convenient storage for game pieces. Lastly, an inverted ledge mounted behind a sofa can serve as a sofa console table, offering a surface for drinks and snacks, and can even be modified to include charging capabilities, demonstrating the remarkable adaptability of this simple IKEA product. #IKEAHacks #HomeOrganization #DIYHomeDecor #SpaceSavingSolutions #PictureLedgeUses #InteriorDesign #BudgetFriendlyDecor #KitchenStorage #ChildrensRoomDesign

The article explores innovative ways to maximize and re-imagine small, often overlooked spaces within a home, transforming them into functional and aesthetically pleasing areas. The central theme emphasizes that any space, regardless of its original purpose or size, holds potential for creative redesign to suit individual needs and enhance daily living. This approach is particularly relevant in urban areas like Seattle, where housing often features smaller square footage. Darren Von Britton of West Seattle illustrates this concept by transforming a small bedroom closet into a dressing room designed to evoke an upscale boutique experience. He highlights the importance of removing preconceived notions about a space's function, demonstrating how a simple closet can become a personalized area for daily rituals like outfit selection and morning coffee. His previous home in Everett further exemplifies this adaptability, where twin closets were converted into an open craft room and workspace, promoting increased engagement with hobbies. Von Britton emphasizes that even if a desired space cannot be grand, it can still be created to accommodate beloved activities. Seattle interior designer and professional organizer Sara Eizen, living in an 880-square-foot home with her twin sons, specializes in maximizing small spaces. She frequently converts closets into office areas and workstations, recognizing the need for multi-purpose rooms in many Seattle residences. Eizen advocates for removing closet doors and utilizing flexible systems like The Container Store's Elfa system, which allows for adjustable shelves and drawers. This adaptability ensures that a space can evolve with changing needs, easily transitioning back to a closet or other storage if required. She also champions cost-effective Ikea hacks, using them to create custom-built looks and overcome spatial limitations, such as placing a bookcase in front of a window without obstructing light or view by leaving its back off. Von Britton further showcases the power of re-imagination with his 1900 West Seattle home. He transformed a daylight basement stairwell, initially overlooked, into a successful greenhouse after being inspired by a gardening show. This transformation highlights that awareness of one's desires can reveal the hidden potential in existing spaces. By working backward from his goal of growing seeds, he adapted the space with specific pots and shelves, requiring only a small heater to supplement the natural light. Under-stair nooks are identified as another frequently neglected area. Eizen has helped clients utilize these spaces for various purposes. In Montlake, she designed a pullout closet with hooks and a a sliding drawer beneath the stairs, providing a much-needed mudroom solution for coats and shoes that could be neatly tucked away. In Bryant, Eizen ingeniously stacked a washer and dryer under the stairs, enabling clients to have separate laundry facilities in their basement rental unit. She also facilitated the conversion of a Wallingford basement from a toddler playroom to a teen hangout, incorporating a desk under the stairs for crafting and remote schooling. Modern open floor plans often present their own challenges. For clients in Queen Anne, Eizen created a temporary art center with rolling carts under an open staircase, offering a flexible solution that could adapt as their children grew. Denise Karren of Essential Staging & Design similarly transformed a large under-stair closet in Woodinville into a miniature library, complete with bookcases, a chandelier, and mirrors to enhance the sense of space. Dedicated pet areas are also addressed, with Von Britton repurposing an under-stair storage area into a recessed cutout for his cat's bowls, complete with beadboard wainscoting and a lamp. This not only provided a dedicated, out-of-the-way feeding station but also added a touch of flair. Eizen utilized a slim, awkward wall space in a Bryant kitchen, previously problematic due to conflicting door swings, by installing an Ikea pegboard for quick-grab dog supplies. She also suggested using an unused fireplace as a cozy dog bed for larger breeds, demonstrating creative solutions for pet comfort. The article concludes by encouraging readers to look at their homes with fresh eyes and pure imagination, adapting the living space to their needs rather than conforming to its existing layout. It advocates for elevating daily experiences by thoughtfully designing and utilizing every available corner, no matter how small or unconventional. #SmallSpaceDesign #HomeRenovation #CreativeStorageSolutions #InteriorDesign #SpaceMaximization #IkeaHacks #HomeOrganization #MultiPurposeSpaces #DIYHomeProjects

In a 900-square-foot New Jersey home, photographer Jillian Guyette and her husband, Robert, faced the challenge of designing a functional and clutter-free nursery for their daughter, Frankie, within a mere 112 square feet. They consciously requested minimal gifts from loved ones, prioritizing quality time with their baby over accumulating numerous items. Frankie's arrival coincided with the state's lockdown, leading to a unique experience where Jillian was among the last to have an extra person present during delivery. This period of intense togetherness and adjustment, aided by her father-in-law who lived next door, allowed for essential home renovations tailored to their small space. A key design element in the nursery is a custom reading nook created from two IKEA Kallax shelf units, each costing $100. Robert and his father stacked these units, securing them to the wall, and added trim to achieve a built-in appearance. They then modified the lower unit by removing two dividers and lining the opening with engineered birch plywood to form a cozy reading nook for Frankie. This clever hack transformed standard shelving into a personalized space where Frankie's board books are stored in baskets on the bottom shelves, while other books are artfully displayed higher up, including a cherished childhood copy of "Curious George" belonging to Jillian. The couple maintains an evening routine of tidying up to manage clutter effectively. To ensure safety and versatility, Jillian opted for an upholstered linen dresser, which had served in the guest room previously. Its soft, fabric-covered corners provide baby-proofing without a overtly childish aesthetic, allowing the piece to seamlessly transition to other uses as Frankie grows. She augmented this with a matching chest, placing both side-by-side to maximize storage and converting the top of the original dresser into a changing station. This choice reflected her preference for adaptable furniture over dedicated changing tables with short shelf lives, emphasizing that any surface of appropriate width and height can serve the purpose. The nursery's decor deliberately avoids a themed approach, instead incorporating meaningful and timeless items. A crystal ball, significant to Jillian's family history, is displayed on a high shelf, out of Frankie's reach, reflecting a blend of personal sentiment and practicality. The gallery wall above the Lolly 3-in-1 crib features an eclectic mix of art, including a linoleum block reduction from Jillian's mother, a watercolor Jillian painted during a false labor, and a banner she crafted from vintage kimono fabric and her husband’s old jeans. This curation of personal pieces imbues the small space with character and warmth, proving that sentimental and special items can be integrated into a nursery without being specifically child-centric, thereby maximizing the impact of a compact environment. #NurseryDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #IKEAHack #DIYHomeDecor #StorageSolutions #BabyProofing #SentimentalDecor #KidsRooms

A mother named Jodie successfully transformed her teenage daughters' shared bedroom into two private spaces using an IKEA Kallax unit as a divider, a solution praised for its ingenuity and cost-effectiveness. The transformation provided each daughter with individual privacy, addressing their growing need for personal space. The total cost of the project was between £250 and £300, significantly reduced by purchasing the IKEA unit second-hand. The project involved carefully measuring the room to ensure a symmetrical split, accommodating each girl's essential furniture. Each newly created "room" features a single bed, five drawers within the Kallax unit, a dressing table that also functions as a desk, and a full-length mirror. To further enhance privacy and define each area, a curtain rail and curtain, sourced from The Range, were installed to create a visual and partial sound barrier between the two sections. The aesthetic was personalized with one side decorated in pink and the other in purple, reflecting the individual preferences of the daughters. Beyond the major structural elements, Jodie incorporated several budget-friendly decor items to furnish the spaces. The dressing tables were acquired from B&M;, and decorative picture prints for the purple side were found on Etsy. A centrally placed lampshade, purchased from a charity shop, provides light to both sides of the divided room, highlighting a resourceful approach to home decoration. The overall design prioritizes functionality and personal comfort within a constrained space. The project has garnered significant positive attention on TikTok, where Jodie shared the transformation. Viewers widely commended the idea, with many expressing admiration for the clever use of space and the affordable execution. Comments highlighted the project as one of the "nicest room splits" seen, with many users praising Jodie's resourcefulness and the impressive outcome. The sentiment was that the mother had done an "amazing" job, providing much-needed privacy for her teenage daughters. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few individuals shared minor criticisms or observations. Some noted that the separated spaces might still allow for sound transfer, suggesting that while visually divided, complete auditory privacy might not be achieved. Another comment mentioned that the new layout appeared somewhat sparse, describing it as needing more warmth. Nevertheless, the dominant response lauded the practical and creative solution for a common household challenge, inspiring other parents to consider similar home transformations for their children. #HomeTransformations #IKEAHacks #TeenageBedrooms #ParentingTips #DIYDecor #BudgetFriendly #RoomDividers #SpaceSavingSolutions

IKEA is renowned for its versatile and affordable furniture, and while many of its products are popular for their intended uses, some stand out for their adaptability in creative hacks. Among these, IKEA's slim and shallow shoe cabinets are particularly well-suited for repurposing beyond footwear storage. Their compact design and ample internal space make them ideal for organizing various items in different areas of the home. One common and highly effective hack involves using the IKEA HEMNES shoe cabinet as a dedicated center for kids' craft supplies. The compartments are spacious enough to hold paper, markers, crayons, and paint palettes, providing an organized and accessible solution for art materials. Its height is also suitable for children, encouraging independence in retrieving and storing their supplies. The HEMNES cabinet, available in two- and four-compartment versions, projects minimally from the wall, making it suitable for narrow hallways or small play areas. Similarly, the IKEA HEMNES shoe cabinet can be transformed into a functional gift-wrapping station. Its tilt-out sections are perfect for organizing gift bags, bows, and small gift boxes, while the top drawer can store ribbons, scissors, and tape. This hack helps keep wrapping essentials neatly contained and ready for use, making gift preparation more efficient. While it accommodates most shorter wrapping paper rolls, longer rolls might require alternative storage methods. The IKEA TRONES shoe cabinet, known for its versatility and affordability, offers numerous other organizational possibilities. Multiple TRONES units can be mounted along a wall to create custom slim storage next to a desk, providing a clutter-free solution for office supplies without requiring large shelves. The closed compartments help maintain a tidy appearance, unlike open shelving. In small bedrooms, a single TRONES unit can serve as a wall-mounted bedside table, offering storage for essentials and a surface for a lamp or water glass, while also allowing space underneath for additional baskets. By gathering several TRONES units, one can even construct a functional headboard for a bed. This hack leverages the cabinet's shallow depth, providing hidden storage compartments behind the bed while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic. The TRONES' simple design, available in white or black plastic, can be customized with contact paper or peel-and-stick wallpaper to match various decor styles. The IKEA BRUSALI shoe cabinet proves effective for wardrobe organization, particularly for storing pants. Its compartments perfectly accommodate rolled-up jeans or other clothing items, making them easily visible and accessible. This method not only saves space but also helps prevent items from getting lost or forgotten in deeper drawers or wardrobes. Beyond cabinets, the IKEA GREJIG shoe rack, an inexpensive metal rack, can be repurposed as a sturdy shelf riser. Its robust construction allows it to support moderately heavy loads, making it ideal for creating tiered storage in kitchen cabinets for spices, pantry staples, or mugs. It also works well in closets to organize folded clothes like sweaters and shirts, preventing them from toppling over on tall shelves. Additionally, the GREJIG can be used as an industrial-style kitchen counter rack, providing extra storage or a riser for small appliances, and its folding legs allow for easy storage when not in use. IKEA shoe cabinets also prove valuable in bathrooms, which often lack sufficient storage. The STÄLL or plastic TRONES cabinets can be mounted to a wall, offering compact storage for toiletries, extra toilet paper, and other bathroom accessories. The plastic TRONES is particularly suitable for damp environments. Creative living room hacks include positioning TRONES cabinets behind a couch to form a hidden console unit. This provides a surface for decorative items and discreet storage for seasonal items or things not used daily, keeping the living area tidy. For utility areas, the plastic TRONES is excellent for creating a compact cleaning and garbage sorting station, with small bins fitting perfectly into its compartments, concealing waste and cleaning supplies. Its easy-to-clean material makes it practical for such uses. Outdoor applications for the durable TRONES include converting it into a garden hose storage unit. While this might involve some minor DIY modifications to accommodate a tap connection, it neatly stores coiled hoses, enhancing the garden's organization. The TRONES cabinets are also perfectly sized to store standard drink cans, offering an aesthetic alternative to bulk storage. For kitchens or pantries with limited space, TRONES units can be mounted to walls or cabinet sides to provide overflow storage for pantry items, produce, or even to clear countertop clutter. They can also serve as effective storage for baking trays and pans, keeping them organized and easily accessible. Finally, IKEA shoe cabinets can be integrated into bedrooms as slim console units beneath wall-mounted TVs, offering storage for media accessories and a sleek aesthetic. In nurseries, a TRONES cabinet mounted beside a changing table provides convenient and discreet storage for diapers and wipes, with its plastic construction making it easy to clean. Another use for the slim TRONES cabinet is for children's clothing storage, especially in small spaces like RVs, offering organized compartments in a compact footprint. They can also conceal unsightly elements like electric boxes or modems, providing both utility and aesthetic improvement. These diverse applications demonstrate the remarkable versatility of IKEA's shoe storage solutions beyond their initial purpose, offering practical and stylish organizational benefits throughout the home. #IKEAHacks #HomeOrganization #SpaceSaving #DIYHomeDecor #StorageSolutions #InteriorDesign #FunctionalSpaces #SmallSpaceLiving #FurnitureRepurposing

Fashion influencer Meredith Peck transformed a former creative director's office on the second floor of her San Francisco Edwardian home into a dedicated 'cloffice,' a hybrid closet-office space. As her online following grew, the need for a traditional desk and computer diminished, prompting her to convert the room into a full-time dressing area. The compact nature of the space necessitated creative storage solutions, focusing on vertical expansion to utilize the high ceilings and small-scale, comfortable furniture. Peck's cloffice is characterized by its vibrant color palette. The walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s warm White Dove, providing a neutral backdrop for a striped settee and a dusty blue armchair from Coley Home. A patterned, rose-hued rug from the Swedish brand Layered adds another layer of color and texture to the room. Peck appreciated Coley Home's customization options, allowing her to select pieces that perfectly fit the dimensions and aesthetic of her cloffice. Muted drapes were chosen to softly filter natural light, ensuring they didn't detract from the outfits displayed within the space. Personal touches, such as an eclectic inspiration board and a vintage portrait, contribute to a welcoming atmosphere, making the room a comfortable spot for her family, including her husband Andy, daughter Madi, and dog Lucy, to gather. For clothing organization, Peck implemented the IKEA Elvarli storage system. This modular and flexible system, made from sturdy aluminum with adjustable clothes rails, allows for seasonal and loosely color-coded arrangement of her wardrobe. Dresses and longer garments are hung, while other items are folded, with bags neatly stored on the top shelf. This system enables her to prioritize and easily access her most-worn items by placing them front and center. The decision for a modular system reflects her desire for adaptability, should the room's function need to change in the future. An ingenious solution for shoe storage involved simple, expandable shelves from Amazon placed within the built-in closet. Additionally, Peck discovered that by resting shoes on the decorative molding above, she could store even more pairs, a 'happy accident' that now appears intentional. For clothing care, Peck relies on velvet hangers, citing their non-slip properties and slim profile, which maximizes hanging space. She specifically recommends an affordable pack of Amazon Basics velvet hangers. Her current fashion preferences lean towards versatile, transitional pieces that combine functionality with unique character. These include a blazer from Tailor’s Keep, a utility shirt and wrap skirt from Lan Jaenicke, and parachute pants by Saint Clair Scissors made from an heirloom tablecloth. A pair of vintage black Celine heels serves as a timeless, versatile footwear choice that complements her overall aesthetic, echoing the article's description of her interior design style as both timeless and whimsical. #Cloffice #HomeOrganization #IKEAHack #SmallSpaceDesign #FashionInfluencer #InteriorDesign #StorageSolutions #HomeDecor #WardrobeOrganization

This article highlights the versatility and cost-effectiveness of IKEA built-in hacks, demonstrating how standard IKEA furniture can be transformed into bespoke, high-end storage solutions. It emphasizes that these DIY projects offer custom looks at a fraction of the cost of professional joinery, making stylish and functional design accessible to a wider audience. The article curates 12 inspiring examples from Instagram interior influencers, showcasing various applications and techniques for hacking IKEA flatpacks. The first hack details how to create a built-in closet for a pitched ceiling using IKEA PAX frames. Emily Shaw (@the_scruff_house) anchored two PAX frames, built an MDF frame for a traditional feel, added molding to the doors, and painted the entire unit in Farrow & Ball's 'Sulking Room Pink' to blend seamlessly with the wall. Gold handles from Anthropologie provided a luxurious finishing touch, making the large wardrobe appear less imposing. Another innovative hack addresses the issue of bulky freestanding appliances by creating a storage surround for a fridge using IKEA METOD units. Hannah Otto (@theottohouse) placed two METOD units on either side of her fridge, extending them to create an integrated shelf for books and reducing visual clutter. The unit was then painted to match existing kitchen cabinets, achieving a cohesive and integrated look. Emma (@emmacourtneyhome) successfully executed two IKEA PAX wardrobe hacks. In the first, she aimed for a seamless, almost hidden closet by raising the PAX on a wood base and dry-walling around it. She added panel molding to the doors and baseboard to match the room, carefully painting only the new additions to preserve the IKEA finish. Her second hack transformed a PAX unit into a modern country-style wardrobe with Shaker-style detailing, vent holes, and a painted finish, showcasing how simple modifications can achieve vastly different aesthetics. The article also features an impressive wall-to-wall built-in shelving unit created by Kaari (@thesommerhome) using IKEA Billy bookcases. Faced with expensive custom bids, Kaari and her husband added hardwired lighting and wood trims to achieve a built-in appearance. They prepped with Zinsser primer and painted the unit in Benjamin Moore Simply White, demonstrating that a polished, custom look can be achieved on a budget. A chic built-in window nook is presented as another practical and stylish hack. Jen (@home.at.highfield) used an IKEA PAX wardrobe unit for shelving and built a storage bench, all placed on a raised platform with skirting. This hack not only maximized storage but also created a cozy aesthetic at minimal cost. Tamara Smith (@mygrandparentschair) transformed BILLY units into elegant arched shelves with an art-deco feel by adding hardboard arches and contrasting paint, proving that even intricate designs are achievable with DIY ingenuity. Stephanie (@henrikjunehome) created a stylish dining room display cabinet using two IKEA Billy bookcases with glass-front Oxberg doors, adding custom-built bottom cabinets with hidden storage for wine and paper towels. This hack perfectly utilized the space and provided a sophisticated display for tableware. For bedrooms, Ciara (@number_twentyseven) demonstrates how painting IKEA PAX wardrobes the same color as the walls can add drama and make the space feel larger and cozier. She built a base, added a frame with batons and MDF, and used pine kitchen coving for a professional finish. Tyler and Kelsey Johnston (@mysimplysimple) created a floor-to-ceiling media unit in their basement using 18 IKEA Besta units combined with Semihandmade door fronts, achieving a high-end look for significantly less than a custom solution. Finally, designer Heidi Parrish showcases how IKEA BESTA cabinets with Semihandmade DIY Shaker fronts can be used to create functional and aesthetic alcove shelving, bringing symmetry and depth to a living room. Charlotte Bradbrook (@charlottebradbrook) reinforces the idea that the IKEA PAX system is highly adaptable, allowing for professional-looking fitted wardrobes in challenging spaces, even for beginner DIYers, saving thousands in labor costs. The article concludes by encouraging readers to embrace these IKEA hacks for personalized, high-quality home transformations. #IKEAHacks #DIYHomeImprovement #BuiltInStorage #HomeOrganization #CustomFurniture #BudgetDecor #InteriorDesign #WardrobeHacks #LivingRoomStorage

This article explores ten innovative and stylish ideas for organizing children's closets, focusing on solutions that balance practicality with creative design. The general trend in children's furniture has shifted towards incorporating imaginative and functional designs, making it easier to create spaces that inspire young minds while maintaining order. A key recommendation from interior designers like Irene Gunter is to opt for made-to-measure wardrobes, which can be custom-fitted to any room's unique dimensions, addressing architectural quirks such as sloping ceilings or awkward corners. This bespoke approach ensures maximum storage utilization. The exterior of a child's wardrobe offers two primary design paths: a neutral, long-lasting aesthetic that can transition with the child from toddler to young adult, or a fun, child-friendly design that can be updated later by replacing doors or repainting. For instance, incorporating the closet exterior into a wall mural, such as a mountain-scape, adds a dash of color and creativity, a technique accessible even to those without artistic training, using simple paint and masking tape. Utilizing awkward spaces, like those found in eaves, is another clever strategy. Low hanging rails and easily accessible drawers or baskets on low shelves encourage young children to reach and put away their belongings independently, fostering a sense of organization from an early age. To jazz up existing closet doors, applying patterned vinyl wallpaper offers a vibrant and durable solution that can be easily updated over time. Building cupboards up to the ceiling maximizes vertical space, ideal for storing off-season clothing or less frequently used items like extra bedding. Including a small step ladder within the wardrobe's design can facilitate access to these higher storage areas. For those on a budget, freestanding furniture can be stylishly integrated by painting wardrobes to match the room's walls, making small spaces feel larger and more cohesive, a technique also effective for playrooms. Customizing closets with open shelving allows for adaptability as children grow. Removable or adjustable shelves can be swapped out for hanging rails as their clothing needs change, especially as they transition into teenage years. Items like dressing-up clothes can be stored in boxes or on hooks outside the main wardrobe, reducing clutter within. Wallpapering the inside of a closet with playful designs, like flamingos, adds a fun surprise and can be easily updated. Incorporating drawers instead of shelves is recommended by experts for better organization and visibility of clothes. Longevity is a key consideration, with designers advising against age-specific joinery to ensure wardrobes remain functional for years. Flexible storage solutions, such as wheeled locker-style wardrobes, are ideal for older children or guest bedrooms, offering mobility and magnetic surfaces for display. Adding decorative handles or knobs can easily personalize a closet. Incorporating animal motifs or other characters into classic joinery offers a playful touch while maintaining a timeless aesthetic. Designing with future growth in mind, using neutral colors for permanent fixtures allows for easy adaptation of bedroom color schemes. Finally, in larger rooms, integrating a desk into the closet design provides a functional study area, while adjustable rails and half-height hanging spaces maximize clothing storage, especially for smaller children's garments. Organizing a child's closet effectively involves a balance of hanging and drawer space, with features like LED lighting, labels, and color-coded baskets for shared closets, along with regular decluttering to manage seasonal items and ensure accessibility for children to get dressed independently. #KidsClosetIdeas #ChildrensStorage #RoomOrganization #InteriorDesign #CustomWardrobes #SpaceSavingSolutions #BedroomDesign #HomeDecor #ParentingHacks

The article discusses a creative and cost-effective home decor solution implemented by Brittney Morgan and her wife, Sara, in their eclectic Nashville apartment. Faced with an open-concept living space, a design popular for its airy feel and sense of community but less favored by some during the COVID-19 pandemic for its lack of defined areas, the couple sought a way to create a functional division without making permanent alterations to their rental unit. Their primary goal was to establish a distinct entryway, preventing the front door from opening directly into the main living area and providing a designated spot for essentials like keys and shoes. This division also aimed to mitigate the perceived darkness in the main living space by allowing natural light to filter through, addressing a concern about limited window access. To achieve this, Brittney and Sara utilized IKEA’s versatile KALLAX shelving system, a well-known and classic product from the brand. The strategic placement of this unit served as an effective room divider, transforming the open layout into more compartmentalized zones. The KALLAX system, priced at under $200, offered not only a spatial separation but also significant functional benefits. The couple enhanced its utility by incorporating cabinet doors and baskets into some of the shelves, cleverly concealing frequently used items. One section was even designated as a 'junk drawer,' highlighting the practical and discreet storage capabilities of their hack. The upper rows of the KALLAX unit were intentionally left open, allowing natural light to penetrate further into the apartment and providing display space for decorative objects and plants, adding a touch of greenery and personal style to the room. The KALLAX unit's dual purpose—as a room divider and a storage solution—was a key aspect of its success. It effectively carved out a vestibule, offering a transitional area that allows for a mental and physical decompression upon entering the home. This space provides an opportunity for residents to shed the day's external layers before fully engaging with their personal living environment. The cleverness of this design choice has garnered considerable attention, with visitors frequently inquiring about the feature and expressing surprise upon learning that it is an IKEA product, underscoring the ingenuity of the customization. The article highlights this specific IKEA hack as an example of ingenious design, suggesting that Brittney and Sara’s home features other notable design elements. This approach caters to renters who often face limitations on structural modifications and seek adaptable, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing solutions to optimize their living spaces. The narrative underscores the potential of readily available, budget-friendly furniture to solve common home design challenges, particularly in creating defined areas within open-plan or rental properties. #HomeDecor #IKEAHack #RoomDivider #RentalDecor #OpenConcept #StorageSolutions #DIYHome

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

This article explores various IKEA dresser hacks, offering creative and budget-friendly ways to transform standard IKEA dressers into unique and stylish furniture pieces. It highlights that interior design projects often require budget compromises, and IKEA hacks provide an excellent solution for adding personality and flair without significant financial outlay. The article covers a range of transformation techniques, including applying fresh paint, replacing hardware, and incorporating decorative features like wood trims and fluting. It presents nine distinct IKEA dresser hacks, featuring popular models like the Hemnes, Tarva, and Rast, to inspire DIY enthusiasts. One featured hack details the transformation of an IKEA Hemnes dresser into a fluted showpiece. This involves using poplar boards and dowels to create a fluted effect on the drawer fronts, followed by priming and painting the entire dresser with a chosen color, such as Sherwin Williams' Green Labyrinth, and then adding new brass hardware. Another hack focuses on creating a chic floating dresser using an IKEA Metod kitchen wall cabinet. This technique involves mounting the cabinet on the wall, adding a marble top, decorative molding, and painting it to match the surrounding walls, effectively blending it into the room while providing ample storage. The article also introduces a boho rattan look for the IKEA Tarva dresser. This hack involves cutting out the center of the drawer fronts, painting the dresser black, and attaching cane webbing to the inside of the drawers with a staple gun, resulting in a stylish, 70s-inspired piece. Another approach for the IKEA Tarva is a light and bright makeover, as demonstrated by designer Sarah Sherman Samuel. This involves painting the dresser white, cutting a few inches off the legs for better proportions, spray-painting the base with metallic gold, and replacing wooden knobs with antique brass ones. For those seeking an Anthropologie-style aesthetic on a budget, the article suggests stenciling an IKEA Rast dresser. This hack utilizes a stencil kit, such as the Neera Bone Inlay Stencil Kit, to apply intricate patterns using custom paint colors, like Benjamin Moore's Navajo white, and finishing with glass knobs. A high-end look for an IKEA Koppang dresser can be achieved by paneling and painting. This involves sanding the unit, attaching polyurethane ribbed panels to the drawers, caulking the joins, countersinking holes for new handles, and then priming and painting in a color like Lick Greige 02. The article also provides an example of adding depth and drama to an IKEA Hemnes dresser by applying a fresh coat of paint, such as Zinsser ALLCOAT, and replacing the handles with gold ones for a glamorous touch. A green and gold color scheme is suggested for an on-trend IKEA Tarva hack, involving the addition of wood trims and Dollar Tree dowels to the drawer fronts, painting with Hunt Club Green spray paint, and incorporating new drawer pulls. Finally, the article presents a hack for transforming an IKEA Tarva into a stylish nursery dresser. This involves cutting the legs at an angle, spray-painting it a mint color (e.g., Farrow & Ball's Theresa's Green), and adding long brass drawer pulls to achieve a high-end look suitable for nursery furniture. #IKEAHacks #DIYFurniture #HomeDecor #BedroomDesign #FurnitureMakeover #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecor #CreativeStorage #Upcycling