We think this might be Lone Fox's best IKEA hack yet

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

Modular furniture often prioritizes functionality over aesthetics, resulting in bland designs. Sustainable options frequently fall into the same trap, sacrificing visual appeal for eco-friendliness. The TUMBA concept, designed by Evgeny Prokopchik, aims to revolutionize this by offering modular storage that is both practical and visually engaging, transforming recycled materials into vibrant, stackable units that celebrate their sustainable origins. The TUMBA concept utilizes recycled polymer for its main body panels, creating unique swirled textures that showcase the material’s history. Transparent elements are constructed from high-strength plexiglass, providing structural support while maintaining a light and airy appearance. Stainless steel connections ensure secure module interlocking, eliminating the need for tools. The design adheres to a zero-waste philosophy, ensuring that every material serves a purpose. Its rounded edges prevent the blocky look typical of many modular systems, giving it a homey rather than institutional feel. The individual units can be stacked vertically to form tall configurations or arranged horizontally for low-profile storage, adapting seamlessly to various living spaces, from studio apartments to large living rooms, without compromising its distinct character. The color palette is a crucial aspect of TUMBA’s appeal, elevating it from simple storage to statement pieces. Vibrant reds, sunny yellows, and rich purples are used to energize rooms and add sophisticated drama. The interplay between opaque colored sections and crystal-clear transparent areas creates visual depth that shifts with viewing angle and lighting. This allows for extensive customization; users can opt for predominantly transparent configurations to achieve a floating, weightless look favored in minimalist interiors, or stack bold colored modules for maximum visual impact, making TUMBA suitable for both Scandinavian-inspired and maximalist design schemes. The flexibility of TUMBA extends to its applications, accommodating diverse storage needs such as book collections, vinyl records, electronics, and general clutter. Its modularity ensures that configurations can evolve with changing user requirements, starting as a small bedside storage unit and potentially expanding into a room-dividing display system. Each module retains its playful aesthetic, whether used individually or as part of a larger composition. This innovative design demonstrates that sustainable practices do not necessitate aesthetic compromises or dull color palettes, showcasing how recycled materials can be central to an appealing and environmentally responsible furniture design, making eco-consciousness genuinely attractive rather than merely dutiful. #ConceptDesigns #Modular #Shelf #SustainableDesign #HomeDecor #FurnitureDesign #RecycledMaterials #EcoFriendlyFurniture

The article introduces IKEA's new RESARÖ drop-leaf table, highlighting its suitability for small kitchens and apartment renters. The author, who previously resided in a tiny New York City apartment, recounts the challenges of furnishing a small kitchen, specifically the lack of dining space despite owning an IKEA BEKVÄM kitchen island for storage. The BEKVÄM island provided valuable storage for items like glasses and towels but lacked a surface for dining, forcing the author to eat meals on the couch or at a desk. The author also considered the NORDEN gateleg table, which offered a collapsible design for storage, but found it impossible to fit alongside the BEKVÄM in a kitchen so small that the oven door could not fully open. The RESARÖ drop-leaf table is presented as a combination of the best features of both the BEKVÄM and NORDEN. It incorporates open storage with solid surfaces, addressing the stability concerns of the BEKVÄM's slatted shelves. Crucially, the RESARÖ features a collapsible leaf at table-height, providing a dining surface for one person, or two for coffee, a feature missing from the BEKVÄM. Additionally, a second drop-leaf allows for the expansion of the island-height surface. Unlike the NORDEN, the RESARÖ is equipped with wheels, enhancing its mobility and versatility within a compact space. The article emphasizes the product's adaptability for personalization, noting that its solid pine construction allows for hacking with paint, stain, or the addition of accessories like hooks and towel rods. While the author now has a larger living space with a dedicated dining table, they express a strong wish that the RESARÖ had been available during their time in the small apartment, concluding that it is one of the most brilliant multi-use kitchen pieces IKEA has released for small spaces in recent years. #IKEAKitchen #SmallSpaceSolutions #ApartmentLiving #KitchenFurniture #DropLeafTable #HomeDesign #StorageSolutions #FunctionalDesign #SpaceSaving

Many homeowners and renters face the challenge of unsightly flush mount light fixtures, which can detract from a room's aesthetic. Traditional solutions, such as removing and replacing these fixtures, can be costly and inconvenient. A creative and budget-friendly alternative has emerged from TikTok, demonstrating how an IKEA NYMÖ lampshade can effectively conceal these fixtures, offering a stylish upgrade without extensive effort or expense. The core of this hack involves utilizing an IKEA NYMÖ lampshade, which retails for around $58, although some users have found them for as little as $10 on platforms like Facebook Marketplace. The process is straightforward: first, the existing glass dome cover of the flush mount light fixture is removed. The chosen lampshade is then placed onto the fixture's central rod, and the original hardware is reconnected to secure the lampshade in place. It's crucial to perform this task with the light switched off to prevent burns from hot bulbs. If the flush fixture remains visible after installation, adjusting the lampshade's height can help achieve better concealment. This method is particularly appealing for its renter-friendly nature, as the original light fixture components can be stored and reinstalled when moving out. Beyond the specific NYMÖ lampshade, the hack offers versatility. Users can explore other IKEA lampshade options, such as the RINGSTA ($17.99) or VINGMAST ($45.99), to better match their interior design preferences and budget. The article also suggests upcycling old lampshades as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative. However, a significant caveat is that this hack may not be suitable for all types of flush mount fixtures. Specifically, fixtures lacking a central rod for attachment will pose a challenge, making this hack impractical. For such instances, alternative methods for replacing light fixtures might be more appropriate. Additionally, ensuring the rod's size is compatible with the lampshade is important to achieve the desired aesthetic and secure fit. If uncertainty exists, purchasing a few options to test and return is recommended to find the best fit for a particular fixture and space. This DIY approach provides a practical, stylish, and economical solution for upgrading home lighting. #IKEAHack #HomeImprovement #DIYHomeDecor #LightFixtures #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecor #RenterFriendly #DesignHacks

Designer Leanne Ford recently completed a project at the newly opened Fox and the Fleur flower shop in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, where she implemented a clever and affordable design hack suitable for home entryways. Ford's approach to the flower shop's interior involved her signature use of white paint, the installation of an oversized sink for flower preparation, and a narrow wooden table for display. Given the limited floor space, Ford sought innovative ways to display blooms, leading her to utilize vertical space. A key design element highlighted in the project is Ford's peg rail display. While used in the shop to hold baskets of 'pick your own' flowers, Ford suggests it serves as an excellent entryway solution for homes. She emphasizes the versatility of peg rails, particularly in spaces lacking closets, such as guest rooms or entryways. According to Ford, these rails can effectively address various organizational challenges. For instance, if a console table is absent, keys can be conveniently placed in a basket hung on the peg rail. Ford sources her peg rails from retailers like the Container Store, Home Depot, or Amazon, which are readily available and affordable, costing around $15. Her typical method involves painting the peg rail the same color as the wall to create a seamless, almost invisible integration into the existing decor. She also suggests painting vintage baskets in the identical wall color to maintain visual continuity and a cohesive aesthetic. This technique helps the organizational elements blend harmoniously with the room's design. The functionality of these baskets extends beyond just keys. They can be utilized in mudrooms to store essential items such as umbrellas, hats, and pet accessories. Even for those who wish to incorporate flowers, Ford advises placing a glass vessel inside the basket to hold water, ensuring the flowers remain fresh. This practical yet stylish solution demonstrates Ford's ability to combine utility with aesthetic appeal. This project at Fox and the Fleur marks Ford's initial foray into design work in Sewickley. She expresses a strong desire to foster more business development in the area, indicating her willingness to offer her design services pro bono to encourage local entrepreneurs. Her commitment stems from her appreciation for the town's beauty and her aspiration to see it thrive. The peg rail hack is a testament to her creative problem-solving and her ability to deliver impactful design solutions on a budget. #LeanneFord #DesignHack #EntrywayIdeas #PegRail #HomeOrganization #FlowerShopDesign #AffordableDecor #InteriorDesign #DIYHome

The collaboration between British designer Tom Dixon and Swedish furniture giant IKEA introduces the Delaktig bed, building upon the concept of a "hackable" sofa previously developed by the duo. This new modular bed system is designed to offer personalization and adaptability, allowing users to modify and transform their sleeping space as their needs evolve. The Delaktig bed, slated for release in February 2019, emphasizes customization through interchangeable accessories, such as different headboards and side tables, which seamlessly integrate with the bed's aluminum frame. The core philosophy behind the Delaktig bed is to provide an inexpensive and flexible system that enables quick aesthetic changes. Accessories can be added, removed, or swapped to create varied looks within minutes. Tom Dixon highlights the bed's significance as a primary unit, given the substantial amount of time individuals spend in contact with it. He questions why such an essential piece of furniture shouldn't offer greater functionality and versatility. The bed offers headboard options, including a contemporary black design and a softer rattan finish, with the possibility of using no headboard at all. The bed frame itself is constructed from 50 percent recycled aluminum, utilizing aviation manufacturing technology. This choice of material makes the frame both lightweight and robust, facilitating ease of movement and rearrangement, which further supports the concept of adaptability. While the current range of accessories and decor options is somewhat limited, catering mainly to individuals exploring their style preferences without significant commitment, the underlying principle of furniture that can adapt to changing life circumstances is a central theme. The article suggests that just as individuals multitask and adapt to life's challenges, their furniture should similarly evolve to meet these dynamic needs. This collaboration represents a continued exploration into flexible and user-centric home furnishings, allowing for significant impact through simple modifications. #TomDixon #IKEA #ModularFurniture #BedDesign #HomeDecor #CustomizableFurniture #DesignCollaboration #FlatPackFurniture #InteriorDesign

This article explores 21 creative and budget-friendly IKEA hacks designed to personalize and enhance various furniture pieces. It caters to both renters seeking temporary modifications and homeowners looking to add a personal touch to their flat-pack items. The guide emphasizes ease of execution, with many hacks adaptable to non-IKEA furniture as well. The first hack demonstrates how to transform an IKEA storage ottoman into an organized office storage solution, ideal for those without dedicated home offices. By utilizing Kuggis and Kvissle inserts, individuals can customize the ottoman's interior to neatly store office supplies. Another innovative idea involves using a Myrheden wire memo board to create an indoor trellis for plants, offering a natural aesthetic within the home. The article then details how to upgrade the Ivar chair with paint and twine, providing step-by-step instructions for priming, painting with chalk-based furniture paint, and wrapping the chair with twine for a stylish finish. Similarly, the Duktig play kitchen can be made more aesthetically pleasing through painting and wallpapering, with detailed guidance on preparing the surface, selecting paints, and assembling the customized kitchen. For kitchen design, the guide suggests painting basic Ivar cabinets to achieve a chic, custom look. It advises on priming, selecting appropriate brushes and chalk paints in complementary shades, and applying a yacht varnish for durability. Another hack focuses on transforming the Moppe chest of drawers with color blocking, offering a non-permanent way for renters to experiment with trends. This involves careful taping and painting with chalk-based furniture paints. Small spaces can benefit from creating an alcove office using IKEA shelf brackets and shelving, with the option to customize timber planks for a perfect fit. The article also presents a hack to give Ivar cabinets a bespoke, built-in appearance by painting them the same color as the walls and adding leather handles. For dated Malm or Hemnes chests of drawers, decorative stickers offer a simple upgrade, extending their lifespan and refreshing their look. Practical solutions include using the Tjuig coat rack for pan lid storage, offering an efficient space-saving idea. Renters can create landlord-friendly gallery walls using Mosslanda picture ledges, allowing for display without damaging walls. The article highlights the effectiveness of mixing budget IKEA pieces with one-off items to achieve an expensive aesthetic, using Alex drawer units and storage cupboards with a custom desktop as an example. Additional home office storage can be gained with the Raskog trolley, which has a small footprint and can be used to organize stationery. Upholstery brand Bemz is introduced as a solution for recovering IKEA sofas, armchairs, and footstools, providing a cost-effective way to refresh furniture. A DIY bedside light can be crafted by wall-mounting an Ekby Valter shelf bracket and wrapping a lamp cord around it. For bedroom customization, a wallpaper headboard is suggested as a space-saving alternative, easily created with a chosen wallpaper design behind a bed frame. The article then addresses the desire for a walk-in wardrobe, explaining how to create one using IKEA storage and a curtain cover-up. Creative lighting hacks include painting patterns on an affordable Regolit Lantern lampshade. A rainbow wall can be created above furniture using leftover paint and masking tape to define the arch shapes, with an optional picture ledge for display. Finally, two hacks offer ways to give IKEA furniture a vintage feel: transforming an IVAR cabinet with half-round trim for a textured look, and creating an apothecary cabinet aesthetic on chests of drawers with paint, new handles, and vintage-style labels. #IKEAHacks #DIYFurniture #HomeDecor #Upcycling #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecor #StorageSolutions #SmallSpaceLiving #FurnitureTransformation

IKEA has introduced a new lighting product, the STRÅLA LED floor lamp, which has gained significant attention on social media for its distinctive and whimsical design. This floor lamp, created by designer Lukas Bazle, mimics the appearance of a stack of matchsticks, featuring slender wooden elements and integrated energy-efficient LED lights. Its design has resonated with home design enthusiasts, leading to its viral popularity on platforms like TikTok, where users are showcasing its ability to add a playful touch to various living spaces. Unlike many conventional floor lamps that are characterized by bulky bases or intricate shades, the STRÅLA lamp emphasizes clean lines and lightweight construction. This design approach contributes to its versatility, allowing it to be easily integrated into diverse areas such as room corners, bedrooms, and office environments. The lamp emits a subtle glow, making it suitable for creating an ambiance without overwhelming the existing decor, a feature that has been particularly appealing to those looking to make a decorative statement with understated elegance. The choice of materials and construction further highlights the lamp's appeal. It incorporates birch-wood accents, which introduce a natural warmth that complements neutral color schemes and aligns well with Scandinavian interior design aesthetics. The lighting system within the STRÅLA is engineered for durability and energy efficiency, reflecting IKEA’s commitment to producing eco-conscious home products. This combination of kitsch yet commanding design and practical functionality has made the lamp a talking point among decorators and homeowners, as it seamlessly fits into real-world settings while serving as a unique focal point. The widespread enthusiasm generated by the STRÅLA lamp underscores how a simple yet elegant design, combined with effective illumination and social media engagement, can often create more excitement than more elaborate or traditional lighting fixtures. Setting up the IKEA STRÅLA LED floor lamp is designed to be straightforward and accessible, even for individuals who typically avoid DIY furniture assembly. The process involves unboxing the lamp, placing the base on a stable, flat surface, and then slotting the LED rod into the base until it securely clicks into place. The minimal use of hardware is a deliberate choice, emphasizing IKEA’s focus on ease of use and streamlined design. After assembly, the lamp is plugged into a wall outlet, and its touch-sensitive switch is tested to ensure proper operation. Once set up, the lamp’s gentle illumination is ready to enhance cozy reading areas or provide ambient light in dimly lit corners. Proper placement is crucial to maximize the visual impact of the lamp's unique charm. The STRÅLA LED floor lamp is best positioned where it can stand out, such as against plain walls or next to furniture, to create visual contrast. Online videos provide examples of optimal placement, illustrating how the lamp can be paired with shelving units or placed beside a television to add visual interest. For those interested in expanding their lighting scheme, IKEA offers a wide array of complementary designs, including novelty wall lamps that can further infuse a room with personality. Whether used as a singular statement piece or integrated with other distinctive decor items, the STRÅLA lamp is designed to be a conversation starter. #IKEALamp #FloorLamp #WhimsicalDesign #HomeDecorTrends #InteriorLighting #ScandinavianDesign #LEDLighting #ViralProduct #HomeGoods

IKEA has launched a new storage trolley as part of its latest STOCKHOLM collection, priced at £129, which is designed to function as both a practical storage solution and a stylish side table. This piece, officially named the side table on castors, distinguishes itself with hidden wheels that create the illusion of a 'floating' design, an aesthetic choice intended to elevate its appearance beyond typical storage units. The article highlights that this feature helps avoid the visual clutter often associated with visible castors on furniture, lending the table a more luxurious look. The design of the trolley is characterized by a simple color scheme and is constructed from a buttery oak veneer. This minimalist approach, combined with the use of natural materials, aligns with classic Scandinavian style, which emphasizes functionality and understated elegance. The STOCKHOLM collection itself is presented as a tribute to Scandi-style, ensuring that the new side table integrates seamlessly into such a design philosophy. The table's functionality is enhanced by high edges on both its upper and lower levels, which are designed to keep items secure and prevent them from sliding off. Despite being hidden, the castors are easily accessible for locking them in place when needed. The dimensions of the side table are 55cm in width and 55cm in height, making it an ideal size for placement next to a sofa or armchair, allowing for easy access to stored items. It offers ample space for various household essentials such as candles, coffee table books, beverages, remote controls, and phone chargers, addressing common household clutter. The author expresses admiration for IKEA's recent storage trolley offerings, noting their blend of practicality and style, and suggests that this particular piece has the potential to become a cult classic due to its clever features and aesthetic appeal. For those unable to acquire the new IKEA STOCKHOLM side table, the article provides alternative storage solutions. These include a Rattan Natural Caddy from Dunelm for £50, praised for its natural design and suitability for creating a serene bathroom environment. Another alternative is the Habitat Archie 2 Tier Bedside Table in yellow, available at Argos for £28, which offers a bright and easily movable option. Finally, an Amazon Basics 3-Tier Rolling Utility or Kitchen Cart in white, priced at £25.53, is presented as a classic, practical, and stylish storage caddy suitable for any room. These alternatives cater to different aesthetic preferences and functional needs, ensuring options for a broader audience seeking versatile storage. #IKEAFurniture #ScandinavianDesign #HomeStorage #SideTable #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #FurnitureInnovation #ScandiStyle

The article explores popular IKEA hacks trending on TikTok, offering creative and budget-friendly solutions for home design and decoration. It highlights four specific hacks discovered in February, demonstrating how simple IKEA products can be transformed into custom-looking pieces. The first hack addresses storage challenges in spaces with sloped ceilings. Typically, the Pax system is a go-to for storage solutions, but for an attic with an awkward slope, creator Emma Courtney ingeniously utilized Sektion kitchen cabinets as a shorter base. This allowed for a build-up that accommodated the sloped architecture, while still integrating Pax doors for a cohesive look where vertical space permitted. This approach showcases adaptability and smart product repurposing to overcome design constraints. The second hack focuses on upgrading basic floating shelves. TikToker Emma Dittmer devised a quick and effective method using IKEA’s Hultarp pot rails. By flipping these polished brass rails on their sides and securing them to existing shelves, she not only prevented items from falling off but also added a custom, bespoke touch. The brass finish allowed for seamless coordination with other fixtures in the space, enhancing the overall aesthetic for a mere $9. The third featured hack involves creating an affordable slatted feature wall. Aboli, known as @spruce_n_spice, detailed her project of transforming a plain transitional space into a stylish focal point. By carefully arranging slats, she crafted an accent wall that provides a sophisticated backdrop, particularly for an oval Lindbyn mirror. This hack demonstrates how readily available materials can be used to add architectural interest and define a space without a hefty investment. Finally, the article presents a clever DIY for a bamboo lamp. TikTok user Patri, or @LovinHope__, showcased a transformation where two Blanda bowls were combined to form a chic light source. The hack involved using wood beads to conceal the seams where the bowls joined and twine to hide the Hemma cord, resulting in an elegant, custom-made lamp. This illustrates how everyday kitchen items can be repurposed into decorative lighting, adding warmth and personality to a room. Collectively, these IKEA hacks exemplify how creativity and a DIY approach can significantly enhance home interiors, offering practical solutions for storage, aesthetic upgrades, and unique decor pieces, all while keeping costs down. The article serves as an inspiration for individuals looking to personalize their living spaces using accessible and affordable resources. #IKEAHacks #DIYHomeDecor #FloatingShelves #SlatWall #BambooLamp #HomeRenovation #BudgetLiving #InteriorDesign #TikTokTrends

The article details a creative IKEA hack by homeowners Frances and Benjamin to construct a built-in closet that seamlessly integrates into their 1899 Victorian home, addressing the common challenge of blending modern flat-pack furniture with period property aesthetics. Faced with the high cost of bespoke carpentry, the couple opted for a DIY approach using IKEA PAX wardrobes and EKET cabinets to create a sophisticated, turn-of-the-century-style storage solution in their bedroom. Their renovation journey, documented on Instagram as @itsnotsogrimupnorth, began by tackling an awkward structural element, likely a chimney flue, within their master bedroom. Instead of expensive custom units, they planned an IKEA-based system to achieve the desired symmetry and conceal the architectural anomaly. The process involved careful planning with IKEA's PAX planner builder tool. To bridge the gap between two PAX units in their alcoves, they incorporated two EKET cabinets with double doors. With assistance from Ben's father, who possessed more DIY expertise, they meticulously cut one of the PAX units to conform to the alcove's shape and slimmed down the EKET units to align perfectly with the PAX frames. After ensuring all individual systems were flush, a timber frame was constructed to elevate the units off the floor, giving the appearance of a built-in structure. MDF boards were used to fill the gaps between sections, and the entire assembly was plaster-boarded and lightly skimmed from the ceiling down, integrating it into the room's architecture. This step also served to cover existing artex on the lowered ceiling. Further enhancing the traditional aesthetic, an MDF window board with a bullnose edge was installed as a DIY shelf atop the EKETs. The most transformative step involved adding pine wood molding to all the cabinet doors, effectively creating a classic paneled look reminiscent of Victorian design. Following the structural and decorative additions, the units were prepared for painting. The couple chose to 'color drench' their bedroom using Lick’s Pink 03, aiming for an elegant yet modern ambiance inspired by Parisian boutique hotels. After applying a coat of Zinsser B-I-N primer, the chosen pink shade was applied. The painting phase proved to be the most time-consuming, requiring light sanding between coats and a meticulous technique of painting molding with a brush before using a small roller on the doors to achieve a smooth finish. Finally, the wall closet received a coat of clear furniture varnish and was accessorized with modern brass hardware from Plank, featuring STACK ribbed T-bar handles and LOVELL circular knobs, lending a transitional style. To complete the authentic period look, coving was added around the top edge of the built-in unit and extended across the entire ceiling, ensuring the new installation appeared as an original feature of the property. The homeowners expressed immense satisfaction with the final result, highlighting how the hack allowed them to achieve their desired blend of traditional and contemporary design without the expense of custom carpentry. The bedroom has garnered significant admiration on Instagram, earning the moniker 'the pink room of dreams.' #IKEAHack #BuiltInCloset #DIYHomeImprovement #VictorianHome #PeriodProperty #HomeRenovation #ColorDrenching #InteriorDesign #StorageSolution

The article details a viral DIY project that transforms standard IKEA Billy bookcases into a bespoke, built-in shelving unit, offering a significant cost saving compared to custom joinery. Paul Knox, the DIY-er behind the hack, shared his vision and the step-by-step process of creating this premium-looking storage solution for his dining room. The project began with a blank wall and five IKEA Billy bookcases, including four standard-sized units and one narrow version for the middle. Paul and his partner aimed for a design-led, built-in aesthetic to avoid a standard freestanding look, drawing inspiration from social media and Pinterest. To achieve the integrated appearance, they purchased matching doors for the standard bookcases, hardboard for cutting decorative arches, and MDF sheets to create the impression of flush-to-wall edges. They also utilized beading, typically used for flooring, to top the bookcase and textured moulding to conceal the joins, enhancing the unit's seamless look. The entire structure was securely attached to the wall using heavy-duty hardware, eschewing the standard IKEA fixings. Remarkably, this project was undertaken by the couple, who were first-time users of power tools and had previously only assembled flat-pack furniture. This highlights the accessibility of the hack, even for those with limited DIY experience. The transformation took two months to complete. The bookshelves were painted in Valspar's 'Salty Peat,' a trendy green shade that instantly elevated the dining room's aesthetic. The addition of books and indoor plants further styled the unit, making the space feel grander and balancing the room as a distinct zone within their open-plan living and dining area. Future plans include integrating lighting into the bookcase. The most compelling aspect of this DIY is the substantial cost saving. Paul obtained quotes for custom built-in shelving ranging from £3,500 to £10,000 due to the wall's size and custom measurement requirements. By contrast, the IKEA hack cost approximately £1,091, including £623 for the bookcases, £111 for the green paint, £150 for added timber, £45 for top coat paint, £35 for a paint sprayer, £100 for a circular mitre saw, £27 for a jigsaw, £20 for a sander, £49 for a nail gun, and £31 for miscellaneous items like 'No More Nails', screws, sanding pads, and safety goggles. This represents a potential saving of up to £9,000, demonstrating a highly effective and budget-friendly approach to achieving a custom home design. #IKEAHack #DIYProject #HomeRenovation #BespokeShelving #BudgetFriendly #InteriorDesign #DiningRoomDecor #CustomBuiltIns #StorageSolutions

Jarod Sabatino and his partner, Tim, transformed an underutilized closet in their 1930s Chicago suburbs home into a spacious walk-in closet, saving an estimated $8,000 to $11,000 by opting for an IKEA Pax system hack instead of custom closet solutions from companies like Container Store or California Closets. Their primary bedroom, measuring 11-by-25 feet, provided ample space to expand the existing closet by at least three feet. Initially, they explored professional options, receiving quotes of approximately $7,000 from Container Store and $12,000 from California Closets. Deciding these were too expensive, they turned to the more affordable IKEA Pax wardrobe system, drawing inspiration and practical guidance from design bloggers Chris and Julia Marcum, who had previously documented their own Pax customization project. Sabatino found the process of converting generic, cost-effective particleboard wardrobes into a high-end, custom-looking space highly satisfying. The entire project cost them $3,935. The renovation began with creating a new barrier using drywall, costing $150. For the closet doors, they sourced antique pocket doors from a local Reuse Depot for $355, aiming for a look that felt original to the 100-year-old home. These doors were painted black to avoid clashing wood tones and installed on a pocket frame to maximize space within the bedroom. The core of the hack involved the IKEA Pax system itself, which cost $1,570. To achieve a custom built-in appearance, they applied trim pieces and door fronts to the wardrobe units, a technique learned from the Marcums. They also doubled the thickness of the half-inch shelves to make them appear more substantial and used wood pieces and caulk to cover seams. For the built-in dresser look, they combined two open-drawer units and attached custom fronts with a combination of drilling and gluing. Painting proved to be the most challenging aspect of the project, costing $149. Sabatino discovered that a shellac-based primer, applied with a respirator mask, was essential for the paint to adhere smoothly to IKEA's glossy surfaces. A flimsy back-wall piece from their IKEA order, which had a visible seam, was disguised by covering it with textured wallpaper and painting it the same Narragansett Green by Benjamin Moore as the cabinets, effectively hiding the crack. Lighting added $1,124 to the total. The ceiling was covered with shiplap, which cost $200. A minor miscalculation during the installation of canned light fixtures required a hole to be filled and redrilled. Kelly Wearstler–designed fixtures were installed above the dresser, an easier task due to the hollow construction of the particleboard, allowing for conduit routing. Crown molding, costing $83, was added for a professional finish and to maintain consistency with the home's existing style, requiring careful cuts and extensive caulking. The final touches included custom-cut and walnut-stained rods, costing $248, to match the home's flooring. Drawer hardware was purchased affordably from Amazon for $56. Sabatino noted that the new walk-in closet, despite the house lacking an en suite, significantly enhanced the home's value and made daily tasks like laundry more enjoyable. #IKEAHack #PaxSystem #WalkInCloset #DIYRenovation #HomeImprovement #BudgetDesign #BeforeAndAfter #CustomCloset #HomeRenovation

The article details how Chris and Julia Marcum, known for their blog Chris Loves Julia, transformed a void adjacent to their main bedroom into a walk-in wardrobe using IKEA Pax systems. The couple had initially planned to use the space, created by the dining room's two-story ceiling, as a TV or playroom for their daughters. However, a follower's suggestion on Instagram led them to consider a closet, a concept Julia initially dismissed due to the area's size. After receiving a custom build quote of $30,000, they decided to pursue a more budget-friendly approach, leveraging their prior positive experiences with IKEA wardrobes. Their goal was to create a highly functional and aesthetically pleasing closet on a $3,000 budget. The Marcums prioritized a routine-inspired layout. Julia designed her side with ample hanging space and a "denim bar" to easily access her jeans, which she typically chooses first when getting dressed. Chris opted for mostly closed storage, primarily for his extensive T-shirt collection, with a shared sock drawer. A floor-to-ceiling section was designated for luggage, extra hangers, and a laundry hamper, ensuring all items had a dedicated place. To achieve a custom, built-in look, the couple integrated several clever hacks. They constructed bases for the IKEA cabinet boxes, elevating them to match the height of their existing baseboards. MDF crown molding was added to the top of the units, effectively concealing the freestanding nature of the IKEA pieces. For a cohesive and high-end finish, all components were painted in Farrow & Ball’s Lamp Room Gray, matching the trim in their bedroom. This detail contributed significantly to the bespoke appearance. Further enhancing the custom feel, thin pieces of wood were applied to the fronts of the cabinets, covering seams and aligning the boxes with the top and bottom moldings. This not only improved the visual continuity but also added stability to the shelves. For the drawers, they replaced the standard IKEA fronts with new ones crafted from simple pinewood and adorned them with brass knobs from Rejuvenation, adding a touch of sophistication. A common issue with IKEA cabinets—visible pre-drilled holes for shelf adjustments—was addressed using wood filler. The filler was allowed to dry overnight and then sanded smooth, creating a seamless interior finish. The most luxurious element of the renovation was the backlit shoe shelving, featuring a 360-degree rotating swivel mirror on a brass pole. This addition served both functional and aesthetic purposes, providing clear visibility and an elegant display for shoes while also making the space feel brighter and more like a vanity area, especially given the room's window placement. #IKEAHacks #PaxWardrobes #CustomCloset #DIYRenovation #HomeOrganization #BudgetDesign #InteriorDesign #StorageSolutions

IKEA has introduced a new under-shelf fridge organiser, the KLIPPKAKTUS storage box, designed to maximize usable space in refrigerators, particularly in smaller or cluttered ones. Priced at just £5, this budget-friendly solution aims to help individuals better organize their fridges and reduce food waste. The article highlights that while an organized fridge is often desired, it can be easily overlooked. However, implementing effective storage solutions, similar to those used for kitchen cupboards, can significantly benefit fridge organization. Organizing a fridge not only simplifies meal preparation by making it easier to locate items but also plays a crucial role in preventing food waste. When food items are scattered or hidden, they are more likely to be forgotten and spoil. The KLIPPKAKTUS storage box, available in-store and online in select areas, directly addresses these issues. Its design is inspired by popular under-shelf storage solutions frequently recommended by professional organizers for creating clutter-free kitchen cupboards or simulating pantry space. The new IKEA organiser brings this space-saving concept to refrigerators, effectively doubling and optimizing the available storage area. IKEA emphasizes that the KLIPPKAKTUS is easy to attach, pull out, and push back in, making it ideal for storing small items that typically get misplaced or scattered. Jonathon Clark, creative director at Shelved, points out that a common oversight in kitchen design is the underutilization of storage space, making solutions like IKEA's fridge organiser particularly valuable for small kitchen storage needs. Simon Glanville, managing director of A Place for Everything, welcomes any innovation that helps maximize fridge space. He notes that under-shelf storage options are especially useful for organizing drinks, bottles, and various produce items. Furthermore, Darren Watts, showroom development and design director at Wren Kitchens, praises under-shelf storage as an excellent option for rented properties, as these solutions can be easily installed and removed without causing damage to fitted kitchen units or the fridge itself. The article predicts that this fridge organiser is likely to become a popular item due to its practicality and affordability. Beyond IKEA's offering, the article also presents alternative under-shelf fridge organisers from other retailers, including an Expandable Fridge Storage Baskets set from Dunelm, a Retractable Drawer Organiser for Fridge (4 Pack) from Amazon, and the Joseph Joseph Under Shelf Fridge Storage Drawer from John Lewis, encouraging readers to research and choose the best option for their specific needs. #IKEA #FridgeStorage #KitchenOrganization #HomeGadgets #SpaceSavingSolutions #BudgetFriendly #HomeImprovement #FoodWasteReduction

Customizing IKEA furniture, often referred to as IKEA hacking, has become a popular trend on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, with tens of thousands of posts dedicated to creative modifications. While some hacks are simple, many require advanced tools and skills, posing a challenge for those who wish to personalize their furniture without extensive DIY experience. This article introduces O’verlays, a company that offers a simpler solution for transforming IKEA pieces. O’verlays specializes in decorative fretwork panels designed specifically for various IKEA furniture items. These panels come in a range of patterns and sizes, suitable for enhancing dressers, desks, doors, and bookcases. The application process is straightforward, typically requiring only glue, with occasional drilling for adding new drawer pulls. A key advantage of O'verlays panels is their white finish, which allows for further customization through painting, enabling users to match the updated furniture to their existing decor. The article highlights five specific IKEA-hacking projects using O’verlays products. The first example showcases how O’verlays' Mini Fluted Dresser Kit can transform an eight-drawer Hemnes dresser. This kit adds a fluted texture to the drawer fronts, elevating the dresser from a functional storage unit to a more elegant console table suitable for an entryway. Another project features the Greek Key Kit for the five-drawer Kullen dresser. This kit applies a classic Greek key pattern, making the furniture piece appear more sophisticated and less like a standard IKEA item. The Greek key design, with its historical roots in various ancient cultures, adds a timeless aesthetic to the modern dresser. For desks, the Anne Kit is presented as a way to enhance the two-drawer IKEA Micke desk. This kit allows for a more decorative, feminine look, suggesting that users can paint the O’verlays pieces gold and either keep the desk white or paint it a blush pink. This transformation can turn a basic desk into a stylish vanity. The fourth example involves the Dee Dee Single Kit, which can be applied to a Koppang chest. This kit introduces curved designs, giving the chest a more luxurious appearance, reminiscent of furniture from a high-end atelier rather than a mass-market retailer. Finally, the article describes the Chip Kit for the IKEA Billy bookcase with an Oxberg door. This kit adds intricate latticework to the bookcase doors, significantly upgrading its aesthetic. The enhanced appearance might inspire users to curate more refined collections for display within the now more elegant bookcase, moving beyond simple paperbacks to items like crystal or porcelain. O’verlays provides a user-friendly and less labor-intensive method for personalizing IKEA furniture, making sophisticated design accessible to a broader audience without the need for advanced DIY skills or power tools. #IkeaHacks #FurnitureCustomization #DIY #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #OVerlays #FurnitureRenovation #DecorativePanels

The IKEA Tarva dresser, a plain pinewood piece, is a versatile base for DIY projects due to its simple design, making it one of the easiest IKEA items to customize. Drew Scott, a DIYer and YouTuber known as Lone Fox, transformed his six-drawer Tarva dresser, which he uses for storing camera equipment, wood dowels, and fabrics, into a high-end-looking raffia chest. He had previously changed the knobs five times to match different room aesthetics but decided on a full makeover inspired by expensive raffia-swathed chests, such as a $4,000 Serena & Lily model. Scott's hack, including the cost of the $180 dresser, came in at under $400. The project involved several steps, beginning with preparing the dresser. The existing knobs were removed, and the pinewood drawer fronts were given a coat of white paint to cover dark knots and create a uniform base that would complement the chosen raffia fabric. Scott used a readily available Behr hue called Ancient Ivory for this step. Next, to ensure proper fitting of the drawers after the makeover, Scott marked the inside of each drawer front with numbers 1 through 6. This step is crucial for IKEA furniture, as drawer dimensions can sometimes vary slightly, preventing perfect alignment if not pre-assigned. For the raffia application, Scott cut strips of fine raffia cloth, ensuring they were slightly smaller than the full drawer front, leaving about an inch on each side. This was done for all six drawers. Each drawer front was then coated with Mod Podge, an adhesive, and allowed to become tacky before the raffia strips were carefully laid onto the surface. Heavy objects, such as books, were used to press down on the fabric, ensuring it adhered firmly while drying. To define the edges and add a polished look, pinewood trim pieces were cut. Four pieces were prepared for each drawer front using a miter saw to achieve precise 45-degree angles at the ends. These trim pieces were then secured to the drawer fronts using a nail gun. The nail holes were filled with caulk and left to dry, preparing the surface for painting. The final touch involved painting and hardware installation. An off-white paint, Benjamin Moore’s Pale Oak in a satin finish, was applied to the trim, top, and sides of the dresser using a foam roller. This choice of paint and application method was intended to give the dresser a luxurious sheen without leaving streaks. The last step was to install new hardware. Scott chose gold handles from Amazon, costing $60. To install them, he carefully cut through the raffia fabric with an X-Acto knife to locate the original screw holes. This comprehensive DIY project successfully transformed a basic IKEA dresser into a sophisticated piece resembling much more expensive furniture, demonstrating an effective way to achieve a high-end look on a budget. #IKEAHack #DIYFurniture #RaffiaDresser #HomeDecor #BudgetDesign #FurnitureMakeover #LoneFox #IKEATarva #AffordableLuxury