This IKEA entryway hack uses METOD kitchen cabinets to make clever built-in storage seating

The article emphasizes the importance of balancing aesthetic appeal with practicality in interior design, particularly concerning storage solutions. It highlights that even minimalists require hidden spaces for essential but unsightly items. The article showcases nine innovative storage projects from various interior designers, demonstrating how to integrate storage seamlessly and stylishly into a home, irrespective of challenging layouts. The first example features shapely shelves designed by Rachel Chudley for a child's bedroom. By incorporating a curvy alcove and covering shelves and walls with patterned fabric, Chudley transformed a functional element into a whimsical design statement. The second project, by Chloe Willis of Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler, demonstrates efficient use of small spaces. Willis converted a landing area into a miniature library with built-in shelving, emphasizing that bookshelves do not need to be excessively deep and can effectively conceal pipework. A third illustration presents practical cubby holes beneath banquette seating in a kitchen, created by fashion stylist Sarah Corbett-Winder. This solution not only maximizes seating but also provides discreet storage for children's toys, blending functionality with an artistic pink wall backdrop. The fourth example, designed by Studio Duggan, utilizes a chic curtain partition to separate a bedroom from a dressing room. This method offers a soft, elegant alternative to a door, promoting a calmer sleeping environment. The dressing room features butter-hued walls and cabinets with raffia inserts, adding texture and sophistication. Fifth, interior designer Polly Ashman employed fabric-fronted wardrobes to soften the visual impact of solid wood doors, adding grasscloth wallpaper to paneled sections for a layered aesthetic. The sixth project by Alex Dauley focuses on a built-in home office with ample closed storage to hide clutter, complemented by open shelves for decorative items. Dauley advocates for custom solutions to maximize space and meet specific storage needs. Seventh, a secret doorway disguised as an inbuilt blue bookcase, crafted by Barr Joinery, adds an element of intrigue and clever space utilization. This design requires precise planning and execution to function as both a bookcase and a hidden passage. Eighth, designer Pandora Taylor incorporated decorative detailing, such as pediment-topped bookshelves, into a London living room to evoke a historic, cottage-like feel. These details enhance the room's character and create visual depth. Finally, Lonika Chande's bespoke wall of storage in a Chelsea sitting room showcases how built-in shelves and cupboards can offer strong decorative definition. This design integrates a sofa within the shelving unit, with contrasting blue and red paintwork, demonstrating how storage can enhance a room's aesthetic and maximize space in a cohesive manner. Overall, the article underscores that thoughtful design can transform often-overlooked or awkward spaces into beautiful and practical storage solutions, contributing to a home that is both visually pleasing and highly functional. #InteriorDesign #StorageSolutions #HomeOrganization #CustomCabinetry #SpaceSaving #BuiltInFurniture #FunctionalDecor #ResidentialDesign

The IKEA STÄLL shoe cabinet, lauded for its ease of assembly, practical design for narrow spaces, and value, holds a 4.7-star average rating from over 220 customers. Despite its minimalist appearance, many DIY enthusiasts are transforming it into more stylish pieces. This article explores eight creative hacks to elevate the STÄLL from its basic, out-of-the-box state, offering inspiration for those seeking to customize their storage units. One hack involves using burlap and wood trim to create an extra-long entryway showstopper. This approach mimics the popular rattan design trend at a fraction of the cost, with the light, natural fibers of the burlap contrasting effectively with the cabinet's original black finish. Another transformation utilizes a dark green hue and trim to give the doors the appearance of classic shaker-style cabinets. The addition of brass drawer pulls and an oak plank tabletop completes this sophisticated look, making the piece indistinguishable from its IKEA origin. A third idea embraces boldness with a cobalt blue paint job. By covering the original handle holes with wood trim and upgrading the hardware, this hack turns the minimalist white STÄLL into a chic entryway feature. Pairing it with a mirror above the storage brightens the space by reflecting light, especially beneficial in narrow hallways. For a brighter, modern aesthetic, one hack suggests covering the door fronts with wide fluted wood paneling, painted white, and accented with simple gold-finish pulls. The result is a chic and contemporary piece ideal for a sunny entryway. Another fluted design approach incorporates rounded edges for a retro, mid-century modern feel. This involves adding fluted panels to the sides and continuing the fluting onto the door faces with wood trim squares, softening the unit's lines. A classic yet elevated look is achieved by framing each door panel with trim, keeping it white to match the original piece, and adding long, black cabinet handles for contrast. This versatile design would suit almost any home interior. A softer aesthetic is explored through the use of a subdued grey-blue paint, specifically Pigeon from Farrow & Ball. This hack involves removing the original doors, adding trim, and then reattaching them with new brass handles after painting. The combination of warm metallic hardware and cool-toned paint creates a subtle yet chic visual contrast. Finally, a simple yet impactful hack involves replacing the existing handles with leather pull handles made from an old belt. This inexpensive modification uses minimal effort to create a significant visual upgrade, with gold-plated screws complementing brown leather, or other finishes depending on the belt's color. These eight transformations demonstrate the potential to personalize and upscale the functional IKEA STÄLL cabinet. #IKEAHacks #STÄLLCabinet #DIYHomeDecor #ShoeStorage #EntrywayDesign #FurnitureMakeover #HomeImprovement #DesignHacks

The article presents 18 inspiring IKEA Besta hack ideas, demonstrating how basic IKEA furniture can be transformed into bespoke and stylish storage solutions for various rooms and purposes. These hacks cater to different DIY skill levels, interior styles, and budgets, offering creative ways to personalize and elevate the standard Besta range. One featured hack involves revamping a home office with bespoke cabinetry. Ashley Rose from the Sugar and Cloth blog made cost-effective Besta storage cabinets appear built-in by adding IKEA Forbattra toe-kicks, showcasing a budget-friendly way to achieve a high-end look. Another innovative idea from Jen Rothbury of @crack_the_shutters demonstrates applying French cane to cut-out doors for a luxurious aesthetic. This DIY project involves sanding, priming, cutting arch shapes with a jigsaw, painting, and then stapling French cane to the inside of the doors, completed with custom handles and legs. Kim Bui from xomyhome.com created a custom, fluted credenza that aligns with 2024 trends. This hack involves building the Besta unit, attaching fluted trims with a nail gun, adding pine boards for legs and a tabletop, and then painting it in a dark, plummy shade like 'Darkroom' by Sherwin Williams, at a significantly lower cost than buying a designer piece. Ashley Rose also presents a colorful Besta unit with painted doors to create a vibrant color-block effect. This simple yet effective hack allows for personalization through various color palettes or patterns, suitable for playrooms or as a feature in other rooms, emphasizing the importance of priming before painting. Amy from @firststepontheladder created a designer-dupe sideboard by combining black paint and reeded glass. This hack involves priming and painting the Besta unit black and then applying reeded glass film to the doors, achieving a sophisticated look for a fraction of the cost of a high-end cabinet. Victoria Corrie of @carnesure.house showcased a calming Scandi-vibe storage unit by adding plywood panels. This affordable DIY involved cutting plywood to size, mitering edges, sanding, and oiling before gluing it to the Besta unit, enhancing a living room's aesthetic on a budget. Corrie also enhanced doors with cane detailing for a Scandi-boho look, creating a large sideboard from two Besta units. This involved adding rattan to the doors, an oak trim, and IKEA Nannarp legs, then attaching the unit to the wall for support, providing an achievable DIY with significant cost savings. Becki Willis from Studio Van Oliver transformed Besta units into a stylish desk for a home office. This hack involves mounting Besta frames on the wall at desk height, leaving out the middle cupboard for chair space, and adding shallower Besta cupboards above for extra storage, offering a clean, floating look with minimal DIY effort. Charlie and Dan from @the_welham combined mouldings and wax for a unique wood-effect finish. They added pine mouldings to a black Besta unit, painted it, and then applied browning wax with a stiff brush to create a dark, wood-effect appearance, offering a luxurious minimaluxe trend aesthetic. Cheryle Rhuda of O’verlays introduced door overlays for a textured metallic finish. This simple project used decorative fretwork panels, painted and glued onto the Besta unit and Inviken doors, along with updated door handles, to achieve a decadent look. Jo from @alongwithjo created a floating TV console by joining Besta units. This hack involved mounting joined Besta units on the wall with brackets, adding a glass top and IKEA Lappviken doors, providing hidden storage and maintaining a clean aesthetic, ideal for decluttering and making small living rooms appear larger. Kelsey from @summer.collective connected two Besta units for an extra-wide, stylish storage solution. This comprehensive hack included cut-out door panels with cane webbing, paint, and a plywood-wrapped top, all mounted to the wall for an elevated, custom appearance, serving as a wide media unit. Lisa Haddon from @the_haddon_home built a bespoke home office with double desks and extensive storage. This project involved configuring Besta units with room measurements, boxing them in, sanding, and painting them in Dulux Egyptian Cotton to achieve a premium finish at a significantly reduced cost compared to custom carpentry. Anda Blumberg of @andablum created simple Scandi-style storage by adding stained rustic planks to a basic Besta unit. This minimalistic approach utilized upcycled materials and leftover paint, adding a personal touch and a sustainable element while keeping costs down. Sanda Stojakovic from Stojakovic Designs created a statement sideboard with bold color and texture. This hack involved adding wood moulding strips for a reeded effect and painting the unit a striking red, which contrasts with sage green wainscoting, resulting in a bespoke and expensive-looking piece. Kat Sanders from @thebarnrenovation built a bespoke media wall with tongue and groove detailing and open compartments. This project involved proper priming and painting with a satin finish, and adding cornice and skirting to elevate the look, making it appear as a high-end built-in unit. Lauren Southern of @southernoutlook created built-ins with beadboard for a perfect living room focal point. This wall-to-wall media unit included integrated lighting and concealed storage, achieved by centering Besta units, filling gaps with MDF panels, and finishing with coving. Haley Paszkiewicz of @haleypasz made a corner bench with storage and DIY cushions. This complex hack involved building Besta units on a custom wooden base, adding drawers with reeded fronts, painting the unit, and creating no-sew cushions, resulting in a stylish and functional budget-friendly piece. General tips for successful IKEA Besta hacks include transforming units with paint for a cohesive or accent look, adding texture or natural materials like plywood or wood wrap, and adding height through legs or wall mounting to create a more expensive and elevated appearance. #IKEAHacks #HomeStorage #DIYFurniture #InteriorDesign #BestaHacks #BudgetDecor #CustomCabinetry #HomeDecor #ScandiDesign

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

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

The space above kitchen cabinets, often overlooked, presents a unique opportunity for both practical storage and aesthetic enhancement. Instead of leaving this gap as an unused eyesore, there are numerous creative solutions to integrate it seamlessly into the kitchen's design. These solutions range from adding functional storage elements to incorporating decorative features that complement the overall style of the room. One approach is to utilize the space for secret storage. Items not frequently needed, such as picnic baskets, decorative objects, or extra cutting boards, can be neatly stashed on top of the cabinets. This method helps declutter other areas of the kitchen and keeps less attractive but useful items out of immediate sight. Another creative idea involves turning the area into a 'gallery loft,' particularly effective in kitchens with expansive spaces above the cabinets. This can involve displaying art pieces or collections that contribute to the room's personality. For those seeking unconventional storage, the space can be used to store fashion accessories like wicker and rattan bags, especially if closet space is limited. This adds an unexpected and stylish touch to the kitchen. Industrial aesthetics can be achieved by adding brick, or brick-patterned wallpaper, above the cabinets. This design choice helps to balance out the sleekness of modern kitchens with a touch of rustic charm. Maximizing storage further can be done by stacking baskets on top of the cabinets, offering a farmhouse-inspired look while providing additional hidden storage. The area can also be transformed into a functional chalkboard surface using chalkboard paint. This allows for a dynamic canvas for notes, grocery lists, or a calendar, making it a practical and interactive element in the kitchen. For kitchens requiring more storage, extending cabinets all the way to the ceiling or even wrapping them around the room and over the sink can significantly increase storage capacity, making the space appear more integrated and custom-built. From a decorative standpoint, painting the space above the cabinets a contrasting color can create a visual pop, highlighting the cabinetry, ceiling, and backsplash. This adds depth and character to the kitchen. Book lovers can store cookbooks on top of the cabinets, keeping them accessible while cooking and freeing up shelf space elsewhere. However, a step ladder would be necessary for easy access. Another charming decorative option is to string twinkle lights, which can instantly add a magical and cozy ambiance to the kitchen, making the often-difficult-to-decorate area visually appealing. For a bolder statement, wallpapering both the backsplash and the walls above the cabinets can introduce a specific theme or pattern, tying the room's decor together. This creates a cohesive and personalized look. Alternatively, a paper garland can be a striking artistic addition, transforming a plain kitchen into a statement-making space with a unique DIY touch. Fabric-topped letters can also be used to spell out words or messages, providing an easy way to introduce color and pattern that can be changed seasonally or according to mood. Finally, for concealing clutter, installing a tension rod and fabric above the cabinets allows for a no-judgment zone to stash various items out of sight, effectively hiding unsightly objects while adding a soft texture to the space. #KitchenDesign #HomeDecor #StorageSolutions #InteriorDesign #DIYHomeDecor #CreativeIdeas #KitchenCabinets

The 2018 Fine Homebuilding House, a net-zero energy, high-performance home in California’s Sierra Nevada foothills, exemplifies modern design and efficient space utilization, particularly through its extensive use of cabinet-based storage. The project aims to meet the goals of the California 2020 initiative and comply with the country's most progressive energy code. This is achieved through a combination of a tight, well-insulated envelope, cutting-edge mechanical systems, unique material choices, and a one-of-a-kind modern design aesthetic. A key element of this design is the absence of traditional bedroom closets, replaced entirely by integrated cabinets and built-ins, showcasing how thoughtful design can maximize storage and functionality without sacrificing style. For the ambitious cabinet requirements throughout the house, including kitchen cabinets, a long wall of storage in the front-entry hallway, and mudroom storage, the homeowners, Mela and David, partnered with CabParts, a company based in Grand Junction, Colorado. CabParts supplied all the cabinet boxes and drawer parts in a flat-pack format, which significantly streamlined the ordering, delivery, and on-site management process. The use of flat-pack components is particularly advantageous for large-scale projects like the 2018 FHB House, where numerous cabinet units need to be transported and stored before assembly. This method reduces the logistical challenges associated with handling pre-assembled cabinets, such as potential damage during transit and limited on-site storage space. The flat-pack system also facilitates easier movement of components around the construction site, ensuring efficiency and minimizing damage. The cabinet boxes offered by CabParts come in two primary assembly formats: dowel-and-glue and Confirmat screw. Both options contribute to a rigid and durable cabinet structure. A notable feature of these cabinets is their all-plywood construction, including the backs, which further enhances their stability and longevity. The interiors of all the cabinets are prefinished, which saves time and effort during installation and provides a clean, ready-to-use appearance. For specific design elements or when working with unique materials, the homeowners retained the flexibility to fabricate custom doors, end panels, and drawer fronts. For instance, for the kitchen cabinets, Mela’s father, Dan Guyer, contributed by crafting drawer fronts and end panels from locally milled wood, adding a personalized touch and integrating local resources into the modern design. The article highlights the diverse aesthetic possibilities achievable with flat-pack cabinet systems. The kitchen, for example, displays a blend of styles, featuring black oak cabinets in the foreground, painted Shaker-style cabinets in the back left, and painted full-overlay doors around the refrigerator area. This variety demonstrates how a standardized flat-pack system can be customized to achieve high-style, bespoke interiors. The choice of Euro-style, full-overlay doors supplied by CabParts complements the modern plywood paneling used in other areas of the house, ensuring a cohesive design language throughout the space. The installation process involved essential tools and materials, such as Titebond glues, tape measures, shims, and screws, along with an organized approach facilitated by a binder detailing cabinet locations. Titebond’s Instant Bond wood adhesive was particularly useful for efficient cabinet assembly, especially for securing backers. Overall, the project demonstrates that flat-pack cabinet solutions can deliver both practical benefits, such as ease of transport and assembly, and high-style design flexibility. By combining standardized components with custom elements, the 2018 Fine Homebuilding House achieved a modern, functional, and aesthetically pleasing interior. This approach allowed for a sophisticated integration of storage solutions into the home's overall design, supporting its high-performance and modern aesthetic goals. #HomeDesign #Cabinetry #BuiltInStorage #FlatPackFurniture #KitchenDesign #InteriorDesign #ModernHome #FineHomebuilding #StorageSolutions

The article explores a variety of IKEA Besta hacks, providing inspiration for transforming standard IKEA furniture into custom, high-end storage solutions for various rooms in a home. These hacks cater to different DIY skill levels and interior design preferences, emphasizing cost-effectiveness and personalized aesthetics. One featured hack details the revamp of a home office using Besta cabinets. Designer Ashley Rose made the storage look built-in by adding IKEA Forbattra toe-kicks and upgrading the cabinet hardware, creating an expensive aesthetic on a budget. Another innovative hack showcases Jen Rothbury's approach to applying French cane to cut-out Besta doors. This project involves careful preparation, including sanding, priming, and cutting arch shapes, followed by painting and the addition of cane webbing, custom hardware, and new legs, resulting in a luxurious and unique piece. Ashley Rose also presents a simple yet effective color-block door transformation for Besta units. This hack involves painting the doors in contrasting colors, allowing for personalization to match various interior design trends, from playful to maximalist styles. Priming the doors before painting is recommended for optimal results. Amy's hack demonstrates how to create a designer-look cabinet using black paint and reeded glass film. By painting the Besta unit and applying reeded glass film to the doors, she achieved a sophisticated, high-end appearance for a fraction of the cost of similar designer pieces, enhancing the 'quiet luxury' aesthetic. Victoria Corrie's contribution highlights the use of plywood panels to achieve a calming Scandinavian vibe. This hack involves wrapping the Besta unit with custom-cut, mitered, sanded, and oiled plywood sheets, creating a custom and affordable piece that can make a living room appear more expensive. Victoria Corrie also details a Scandi-boho inspired sideboard created by combining two Besta units. This involved adding rattan to the doors, an oak trim, and IKEA Nannarp and Besta supporting legs, then attaching the unit to the wall for stability and to create a floating effect, which can make small rooms feel larger. For home offices, Becki Willis from Studio Van Oliver demonstrates crafting a stylish desk. This hack utilizes a Besta top panel, leaving out the middle cupboard for chair space, and wall-mounting the units to achieve a clean, floating look at a standard desk height. Shallower Besta cupboards are added above for extra storage. Cheryle Rhuda's hack introduces door overlays for a textured metallic finish. By using decorative fretwork panels (O'verlays) that fit IKEA Besta units and Inviken doors, painted and glued on, a decadent and customizable metallic texture is achieved. Updating door handles is also recommended to enhance the final look. Jo, a content creator, illustrates how to transform basic Besta units into a floating TV console. By joining multiple Besta units and mounting them on the wall, she created a streamlined storage solution that conceals clutter and maintains a clean aesthetic. This elevated storage also helps in making small living rooms appear larger, with a tip to hide cables and sockets. Finally, Kelsey showcases connecting two Besta units for extra-wide stylish storage, incorporating elements such as cut-out door panels with cane webbing, paint, and a plywood-wrapped top. This hack emphasizes creating a custom, cohesive look by joining units and using wall-mounting kits for an elevated appearance. The article concludes with general tips for successful Besta hacks, including using paint for transformation, adding texture with natural materials like plywood or rustic wood, and elevating units with legs or wall-mounting for a more expensive and spacious feel. #IKEAHacks #HomeStorage #DIYFurniture #BespokeDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #FurnitureTransformation #CostEffectiveDecor #ScandiBoho

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

IKEA's BESTA cabinets are versatile and budget-friendly furniture pieces that serve as excellent blank canvases for customisation. This article explores five creative IKEA BESTA hacks that can elevate these basic storage units into high-end looking pieces, offering inspiration for homeowners looking to personalise their living spaces. The author, who also owns BESTA cabinets, shares their personal motivation for seeking out these transformations. One popular hack involves creating a storage bench using the lower BESTA TV bench or shelf unit. This method, exemplified by Charlotte Simpson of Lotte Studio, involves adding an upholstered back and carefully priming and caulking the unit to give it a fitted, built-in appearance. This approach effectively utilises dead spaces for storage, such as in a loft, and requires attention to detail for a durable finish. Another hack focuses on adorning the BESTA cabinets with a fluted finish. While some IKEA products offer a reeded finish, a DIY fluted design, combined with a fresh coat of paint and stylish handles, can significantly enhance the sophistication of the unit. Melanie Lissack's project, featuring lilac paint and fluted panelling, demonstrates how this can be achieved, though it requires specific painting techniques for IKEA furniture. Building a media unit is a practical and aesthetically pleasing hack for larger spaces. By combining multiple BESTA cabinets, one can create a cost-effective alternative to bespoke joinery. Clare Bolger of No Space Like Home successfully implemented this by adding a base, skirting, and frame to the BESTA units, then painting them to match the room's walls, creating a seamless and integrated look while providing ample storage. Adding glass or cane inserts to the cabinet doors offers another way to personalise BESTA units. This modification, suitable for sideboards or toy storage, can be achieved by swapping out original doors for cane webbing or reeded glass. Interior stylist Alex Stubbs suggests pairing these with wooden legs to integrate storage beautifully into adult living areas. Budget-friendly alternatives include using cane webbing by the roll or reeded glass window film. Finally, transforming a floating BESTA cabinet into a bathroom vanity is a functional and stylish hack. By attaching the unit to the wall, it provides storage without occupying floor space, creating an airy feel. This method allows for customisation in terms of paint colour and finish to complement the bathroom's overall style, as seen in a green spa-style en suite loft conversion. Many of these customisation techniques are also applicable to other basic flatpack furniture from IKEA, offering a broad scope for DIY enthusiasts. #IKEAHacks #BESTACabinets #DIYFurniture #HomeDecor #StorageSolutions #FurnitureMakeover #InteriorDesign #BudgetFriendlyDecor #CustomFurniture

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

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 blog post presents an affordable and creative IKEA hack to create a stylish pedestal dish, ideal for enhancing kitchen storage and organization. This DIY project involves combining two UTSÅDD pet bowls from IKEA, available in different sizes and striped patterns. The larger 7½-inch bowl, priced at $6.99, and the smaller 4½-inch bowl, costing $3.99, are joined using a strong adhesive like Gorilla Glue Contact Adhesive. The process is straightforward: apply glue to the bottom of the smaller bowl and carefully center it on the bottom of the larger bowl, allowing it to dry according to the adhesive's instructions. The total cost of materials is just over $10.00, resulting in a product that resembles a high-end home decor item rather than a budget-friendly hack. The newly created pedestal bowl offers diverse functional and decorative uses beyond a simple fruit bowl or catch-all for keys and mail. For instance, it can serve as an elegant display for natural objects such as pinecones, shells, or dried berries, or for unique decorative pieces like selenite balls and recycled glass beads. It can also function as storage for game components like Jenga blocks or chess pieces, adding texture, color, and visual interest to a kitchen space. The article also suggests transforming the pedestal bowl into a planter or herb garden. When used for live plants, it is recommended to keep them in their original nursery pots and to regularly empty any excess water that collects in the bottom of the bowl due to the absence of drainage holes. Given the shallow nature of the bowls, air plants or small succulent gardens are presented as suitable options that do not necessitate extensive drainage. Furthermore, the blog encourages an eco-friendly approach to this DIY project. Instead of purchasing new bowls, readers are advised to utilize existing wide, flat-bottomed bowls they might already own. This reduces waste and offers an opportunity to repurpose household items. Exploring local thrift shops is also suggested as a way to find unique, second-hand bowls with interesting patterns or complementary colors, allowing for a more personalized and sustainable creation. The article highlights the potential to discover discontinued IKEA products, vintage bowls, planters, or dishes at thrift stores, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace, thereby giving new life to items that might otherwise end up in landfills. This not only makes the project even more economical but also contributes to reducing environmental impact. #IKEAHack #KitchenStorage #DIYHomeDecor #AffordableDesign #PedestalBowl #HomeOrganization #SustainableLiving #CreativeReuse

IKEA offers a versatile range of sliding door cabinets that provide stylish and accessible storage solutions, effectively decluttering living spaces. These cabinets are designed to be budget-friendly, with prices typically under $500, a significant saving compared to custom cabinet installations, which average around $7,467. The minimalist designs of IKEA products also allow for easy customization through methods like peel-and-stick wallpaper, spray paint, or wood staining to match existing decor. The TONSTAD oak veneer sliding door cabinet, priced at $270, features a clean look with glass doors and adjustable shelves, available in light and dark oak. Standing over 47 inches tall, it serves as a rustic statement piece. The KALKNÄS two-door cabinet, retailing at $229.99, combines exposed shelving with closed sliding and glass doors, offering dual storage options. Despite some concerns about its perceived flimsiness for heavy items, reviewers generally praise its versatility. A taller, thinner three-door KALKNÄS model, priced at $199, is suitable for smaller items like books or craft supplies, allowing for decorative displays in its glass section. For a modern farmhouse aesthetic, the IDANÄS cabinet with bi-folding doors, at $399.99, is a 53-inch tall option with three internal shelves. It can be personalized with colorful hardware and its elevated base provides additional storage space. Reviewers commend its ease of assembly and stability. Another TONSTAD model, priced at $499, is a taller, 78-inch cabinet with glass doors, ideal for displaying collectibles or as a bar area. It includes cable management holes for interior lighting and concealed storage at the bottom. The TROTTEN cabinet, costing $329.99, presents a modern industrial design, perfect for home offices, with three exposed shelves and lockable sliding doors on its lower section. Constructed from steel and available in black or white, it is noted for its sturdiness and spaciousness. Finally, the VIHALS cabinet, a budget-friendly option at $179, is made of particleboard and available in white or dark gray. Its simple design with pull tabs can be personalized with different handles. Customers appreciate its easy assembly, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. The TONSTAD closed cabinet, at $250, offers fully enclosed storage with oak or dark wood veneer, featuring engraved door handles for smooth operation and three adjustable shelves, praised by users for its easy-sliding doors and appealing appearance. #IKEACabinets #SlidingDoorStorage #HomeOrganization #InteriorDesign #FurnitureCustomization #BudgetFriendlyDecor #ModernFarmhouseStyle

Built-ins offer a unique opportunity to maximize space, enhance functionality, and add custom charm to a home. This article explores creative built-in solutions implemented in an Orange County home by Sérendipité interior design, highlighting how these elements transform neglected or awkward spaces into highly functional and aesthetically pleasing areas. The design process began early enough to integrate these custom features, including a desk under a stairwell, a reading nook with library sconces and shelves, and smart kitchen and laundry room storage, all contributing to a clutter-free and streamlined living environment. Valerie Saunders, Sérendipité's lead designer, brings her construction background to each project, collaborating with Pacific Coast Builders to realize these custom features. One notable example is a cutting board with a scrap disposal hole, demonstrating the level of detail and practical innovation built into the home. Saunders and Eli Obie of Pacific Coast Builders share their insights and tips for effective built-in design. Obie emphasizes identifying underutilized spaces with character potential, such as areas beneath stairs or nooks created by roof angles, transforming them into special features. He advises working with a designer to plan and identify optimal locations, stressing the importance of knowing one's preferences and having a budget. Saunders suggests thinking creatively about finding suitable locations for reading nooks, recommending underutilized closet spaces, particularly under stairs, which often accumulate clutter. The featured reading nook, for instance, was integrated into the living space, providing both usefulness and storage. The designers prioritize creating spaces that are both functional and visually appealing. Obie notes that custom-made elements, like those accommodating the ceiling and roof constraints of the reading nook (formerly a closet), contribute significantly to its unique character. The article also provides advice for personalizing built-ins, suggesting options such as shiplap paneling, wallpaper, bold paint colors, or distinct wood species to make them stand out. Incorporating unique light fixtures, shelving, and storage solutions is also recommended to ensure the built-in is both functional and fun. Careful planning is highlighted as an essential step in the design process to achieve successful and impactful built-in solutions. #BuiltInDesign #HomeOrganization #SpaceUtilization #InteriorDesign #ReadingNook #CustomCabinetry #KitchenStorage #HomeRenovation

Kitchen islands serve as more than just extra countertop space; they are crucial for maximizing both seating and storage within a kitchen. Many individuals use kitchen islands for food preparation, as a drop-off point for keys and mail, and for various everyday activities. Beyond these functional roles, a well-designed kitchen island can transform into a cozy spot for morning coffee, an afternoon workspace for emails, or an informal dining area for entertaining guests. For kitchens with limited space, incorporating ample drawers, cabinets, and shelves into the island design is an efficient strategy for optimizing functionality without cluttering the main living areas. This integration allows homeowners to enjoy the benefits of expanded storage and versatile seating options. The article highlights five distinct approaches to designing kitchen islands that cleverly combine storage and seating, catering to different aesthetic preferences and spatial requirements. One innovative design involves integrating the island with a dining table, as showcased by Antwerp-based architect Dries Otten. His round island features a cooktop and hidden doors for cookware storage, with a conveniently placed table extension for dining. This two-in-one solution not only conserves space but also eliminates the need for a separate, large stone slab, making it a cost-effective and practical choice. Another approach emphasizes discreet storage, where cabinet doors are hidden beneath the countertop's lip, often where barstools are positioned. This method maintains a clean and seamless look, enhanced by using cutouts instead of shiny hardware for handleless access. For those who prefer visible storage, carving out a nook for items like cookbooks or fresh produce can add character and accessibility. Open shelves on one side of the island provide easy access and can also be used for decorative displays, adding a personal touch to the kitchen space. For smaller or narrower kitchens, simplifying the island's shape is key. A long, narrow island can still offer both storage and seating without overwhelming the room. Opting for large cupboards and simple stools over intricate drawers ensures that there is sufficient room for movement around the island. Finally, a popular trend involves attaching a console table or buffet-style end piece to the island, creating a layered and lived-in aesthetic. This addition provides extra surface area for displaying decorative objects or storing dishware, further enhancing the island's utility and visual appeal. These diverse design strategies demonstrate how kitchen islands can be customized to meet specific needs, providing both practical storage solutions and comfortable seating arrangements. #KitchenDesign #KitchenIslands #StorageSolutions #SeatingIdeas #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SpaceSaving #KitchenOrganization #FunctionalDesign