Best IKEA dresser hacks - 9 ways to create a design-driven piece for your bedroom

The article provides a comprehensive guide to transforming affordable IKEA dressers into custom-looking pieces through various DIY hacks. It addresses the challenge of finding stylish yet budget-friendly dressers by offering creative solutions using readily available IKEA furniture like the Malm, Hemnes, and Tarva series. The hacks range from simple cosmetic changes to more involved structural modifications, catering to different skill levels and aesthetic preferences. One featured hack showcases how the six-drawer Malm dresser, a basic canvas, can be elevated with color, personality, and texture. This involved covering the dresser with 228 MDF slats and painting it in Behr’s Gray Heron. Another section details how a three-drawer Malm piece can be converted into a nightstand by adding trim, painting it a chocolaty red, and attaching brass knobs. Similarly, an IKEA Rast dresser was transformed into a nightstand by removing the toe-kick and bottom drawer, adding new feet, cladding the drawers with fluted wood trim, and painting it dark blue. For those seeking a campaign-style dresser without the high cost, a Malm dresser was upgraded with Lewis Dolin bar pulls and spray-painted corner braces to mimic the desired aesthetic. A more elaborate hack involved wrapping a Tarva dresser in raffia cloth and finishing it with Benjamin Moore’s Pale Oak paint, offering a high-end look for a fraction of the price. The article also presents a hack for a Moppe mini storage chest, where pine dowels wrapped in leather were used as unique pulls, costing less than $20. Another texture-focused DIY involved using foam dowels, painted nude, to create a channel-quilted effect on a dresser surface. A hack utilizing cane webbing for a "peekaboo effect" involved making cutouts in Tarva dresser drawer fronts, staining the piece for a weathered oak finish, and stapling cane webbing to the inside. Innovatively, an integrated dresser was constructed from three IKEA Billy bookcases in a hallway, complete with custom-added drawers for storage. The article also highlights an easy upgrade using Greta legs and Stina knobs from Pretty Pegs, designed specifically for IKEA furniture, to elevate the Ivar three-drawer chest. A practical hack converts a Tarva dresser into a changing table for a nursery by adding white paint and a colorful pad. Further customization ideas include adding flat-back ball knobs around the edges of drawers to mimic Jenny Lind furniture, and using leather straps with brass screws as unique pulls for a basic furniture piece. A clever hack for a nursery involved painting a dresser green, adding sleek knobs, and installing two IKEA brackets with wood planks to create a mini library. Finally, a two-tone dresser hack involved staining the bottom portion rich brown, painting the top white, and dyeing the knobs for an optical illusion, creating a bespoke appearance. #IKEAHacks #DresserMakeover #DIYFurniture #HomeDecor #BudgetDesign #FurnitureCustomization #InteriorDesign #Renovation #HomeImprovement

This article explores various creative and practical IKEA furniture hacks, demonstrating how to transform affordable flatpack items into unique and personalized pieces for every room in the home. The piece begins by highlighting the common desire to customize IKEA furniture due to its widespread popularity, leading to a need for individual expression in home decor. It then presents a series of hacks, starting with the NISSAFORS cart, which can be spray-painted and fitted with stained wood boards to create a stylish drinks trolley, perfect for entertaining. The VITTSJÖ range, known for its slim frames, is shown to be easily elevated with metallic spray paint, offering an expensive-looking update suitable for beginners, particularly for home office chairs. The BEKVÄM step stool, a versatile item, is reimagined as a chic two-tier plant stand using vegan upholstery leather for a natural yet elegant look. For those fond of a prairie aesthetic, an IVAR cabinet is customized with a chevron design, achieving an ombre effect through layered wood staining. A DIY challenge transforms a BESTÅ cabinet into an Art Deco-style piece by adding curved panels, a webbed cane, and brass handles. A budget-friendly makeup table is created using LACK wall shelves, storage boxes, and a movie-star mirror, providing an elegant bedroom vanity for under £200. Star Wars enthusiasts are offered a quirky HEMNES dresser hack, featuring stenciled R2-D2 designs and a matching wall painting. For home offices, two METOD cabinets bridged with a melamine wood piece create a bespoke desk, complemented by custom cane cupboard fronts and a coordinated paint scheme. The standard KALLAX unit is given a vibrant makeover with a large-scale mural vinyl and striking teal paint, fitting a kaleidoscopic living room theme. PAX wardrobes are combined with EKET cabinets and adorned with pine beading, pink paint, and gold handles to form a glamorous storage wall. Simple yet effective ideas include flipping BEKVÄM spice racks to create a slim ledge and hook rail for office supplies, and framing an IVAR cabinet with steel legs and wood strips, painted in a buttery yellow for a pastel-filled home. A KURA midsleeper bed is customized with slat-style detail to suit a 'tween' room, offering a cool and calm aesthetic. Two MAGASIN bread bins are ingeniously transformed into a stylish side table, painted purple and raised on wooden legs, providing a viral, low-cost solution. Another PAX wardrobe hack involves creating a dramatic, high-end storage system around a home office door using black units and curated styling. HAVSTA cabinets are cleverly integrated into alcove spaces beside a fireplace, mimicking expensive built-in units, while IVAR cabinets are used to create a chic mural. KALLAX box storage is enhanced with Frenchic furniture paint, wooden legs, and LUSTIGKURRE storage boxes for a bohemian touch. A preloved IDANÄS cabinet is detailed with waxed beading, vinyl film, and Farrow & Ball paint. A BESTÅ cabinet receives a sophisticated update with fluted front panels, a marble top, and gold handles, all in a trendy lilac hue. IKEA tea towels are sewn together to create unique cafe-style curtains, and FRAKTA bags are upcycled into a waterproof picnic blanket. HEAT cork pot stands and leftover bottle corks are repurposed into an eye-catching jewelry display. A SKÅDIS pegboard, IVAR shelving units, RÅSKOG trolley, and SMÅSTAD chest are painted a uniform pink to create a color-drenched craft space. A BILLY bookcase is reshuffled to create asymmetrical and interesting compartments with just a tin of paint. MOSSLANDA picture ledges are coated in microcement to form an expensive-looking coffee nook, complete with luxe finishes. An IVAR cabinet is given a floral decoupage with chalk paints for a blooming beautiful result. A simple IVAR chair is upgraded with teal paint and wrapped yarn for a quirky backrest, while a new PS cabinet is 'downcycled' to create a vintage, aged effect. The RÅSKOG trolley is given an industrial twist with gunmetal grey spray paint, and SÖSDALA memo boards are used as a trellis for climbing plants, forming an inexpensive living wall. IVAR cabinets are color-matched to a bold wall for a moody, monotone look, and BUMERANG hangers are tied together to create unique wall art for jewelry. Finally, REGOLIT paper lampshades are given a monochrome makeover with ink stamps and paint, and MOSSLANDA ledges are used vertically with knobs and rope to create innovative storage for tall items. TRONES shoe storage units are repurposed as a headboard, offering a practical and stylish solution for bedroom essentials, completed with LED strip lights for ambient lighting. MOPPE drawers are transformed into personalized desk organizers using adhesive film, paint, and stencils. #IKEAHacks #FurnitureUpcycling #DIYHomeDecor #CustomIKEA #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecor #CreativeStorage #HomeImprovement #PersonalizedFurniture

The article emphasizes the importance of thoughtfully decorating a bedroom dresser, highlighting it as an opportunity for personalization and style. The initial step involves defining the dresser's primary purpose, whether it serves as a private personal space, a functional area for morning routines, a workspace, a reading nook, or simply a display for cherished items. Design experts like Jane Landino, Creative and Design Head of Studio at Taylor Howes, suggest creating a curated tableau with decorative mirrors, sculptural art, fresh flowers, and personal accessories such as scented candles, costume jewelry, or crystal collections to personalize the dressing table. Several strategies are outlined to transform a bedroom dresser into a sanctuary. One approach is to use the space to showcase favorite art pieces. Leaning art against the wall, rather than hanging it, offers flexibility and allows for easy rotation of chosen frames. This method adds to the room's scheme, provides an elegant backdrop for trinkets, and draws attention to this particular area of the room, as exemplified by a modern bedroom featuring a Sally Mann photo. Another key strategy is to play with height and space when displaying objects. Dressers provide an ideal surface for treasured items, but their arrangement should be deliberate. Grouping objects of varying heights, such as beautiful bowls for smaller items alongside tall candlesticks, adds depth and drama while preventing a cluttered appearance. Interior design studio White Arrow, represented by Keren Richter, advocates for using groupings of objects and functional accents like table lamps, small bowls, vases, flowers, and books, often arranging them on trays or employing odd numbers and symmetry to create engaging vignettes. Integrating the dresser decor with the overall bedroom scheme is also crucial. Soft furnishings like throws, blankets, and cushions that complement the room's color palette can provide a final touch, adding depth and cohesion. Lane McNab of a San Francisco Bay design studio illustrates this with a neutral, monochromatic bedroom where the dresser completes the tranquil aesthetic. This approach aligns with Feng Shui principles, fostering a harmonious and relaxing environment. Bringing elements of the outdoors in, through potted plants, hanging baskets, or fresh flower bouquets, introduces calm and serenity. Fredrick Tang suggests using flowers and plants to add height, greenery, and texture, placing them on the dresser or on the floor to lead the eye upwards. For those who use the dresser for pampering, practical additions like a mirror and beauty essentials are vital. A statement mirror can serve as a focal point, reflecting light and making the space appear larger. Designer Daun Curry highlights that an appropriately sized mirror defines the space and adds an artistic element. The article also advises considering the dresser's placement within the room, especially in period homes with alcoves, to maximize space and create clever, multi-functional areas that can serve as bedside tables, decorative features, storage, or even a workspace. Jen & Mar from Interior Fox suggest building bespoke shelving units to achieve optimal height and functionality. Proper lighting is emphasized for functionality and atmosphere, whether through natural light from a window or statement pieces like glass sconces or bold lamps. Finally, the article stresses the importance of personalizing the dresser with trinkets that reflect one's personality and life story. Bedside books, meaningful sculptures, and favorite perfume bottles can act as focal points, showcasing individual interests. 2LG Studio exemplifies this with a collection of German ceramics and an African mask, blending cultural backgrounds within a monochromatic blue and white palette. Annie Sloan encourages sourcing unique second-hand dressers and allowing existing bedroom schemes to inform paint choices. Daun Curry concludes by emphasizing the use of raw materials like glass, silk, and metal in soft hues to create a calm sanctuary, while Peter Tindall advocates for natural materials such as wood, bamboo, rattan, and stone to bring a soothing, outdoor feel indoors. John McClain offers a mnemonic for styling: the "four L's" – Light (lamps, mirrors, candles), Life (plants, florals), Learning (books for levels and personalization), and Luxury (framed photographs, sculptures, precious stones) – to create a well-rounded and engaging display. #BedroomDesign #DresserDecor #HomeStyling #InteriorDesign #PersonalizedSpace #DecoratingIdeas #BedroomSanctuary #HomeDecoration

This blog post details a bedroom renovation project undertaken by interior designer and seasoned renovator, Kayla Nelson, who transformed her childhood bedroom into a sophisticated adult sanctuary for $5,500. The project, with a square footage of 180 and a timeline of approximately one month, focused on doubling storage and elevating the room's aesthetic through molding, paint, and IKEA hacks. Nelson's bedroom, originally a garage, underwent several changes over the years, including a purple paint job and the addition of two freestanding IKEA Pax units for storage. However, she desired more sophisticated storage and a more refined ambiance. The recent renovation involved integrating two additional IKEA Pax wardrobes, totaling four, to create a built-in closet system. To achieve this, Nelson built a 2-by-4 base on the subfloor for the wardrobes, incorporating a window seat. Another 2-by-4 structure was built above the units to ensure a flush appearance after covering the open frames with drywall. The cost for the two additional Pax wardrobes was $1,500, and the wood for the framing amounted to $1,050. To introduce coziness into the room with its nearly 11-foot-high ceilings, Nelson painted the ceiling and the top 16 inches of the walls with Valspar's Black Evergreen. The lower part of the walls was painted in Valspar's Oyster Pearl. Base shoe molding was used to delineate the paint lines, and an extension pole and ladder were utilized for painting. The total paint cost for four gallons was $200. For the IKEA Pax units, which were initially gray, Nelson primed them with Zinsser's 123 Primer before painting them the same color as the walls to ensure a cohesive look. A key design element was the accent wall behind the bed, which featured a unique picture frame molding technique where molding pieces butted against each other, requiring precise 45-degree angle cuts. Nelson used website measurements and pencil guidelines to frame the headboard, attaching the molding with a nail gun and painting it in Oyster Pearl. The final stage of the renovation involved furnishing the room with adult-approved pieces. The most significant individual splurge was a $700 CB2 nightstand. To maintain the budget, other furnishings, including a bistro table and a mirror, were sourced from World Market and Home Depot. The overall project successfully transformed a former childhood space into a grown-up sanctuary, demonstrating effective DIY strategies for achieving a high-end look on a moderate budget. #BedroomRenovation #IKEAHack #DIY #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #BudgetFriendly #StorageSolutions #MoldingDetails

This article explores ten versatile and functional methods for dividing a bedroom into two distinct areas without compromising on style. These techniques, tried and tested by interior designers, offer solutions for maximizing space, creating privacy, or zoning different activities within a single room. The approaches range from simple and temporary fixes to more permanent architectural changes. One of the most straightforward methods discussed is using curtains or drapery. Curtains can effectively create a designated sleep sanctuary or hide areas like closets or vanity spaces, providing privacy and controlling light. Kati Curtis, an interior designer, emphasizes that textiles can serve as soft, romantic, yet strong thresholds when structural walls are not feasible. Another technique involves strategic use of stud walls behind a bed. These can be full or half walls, framing the bed and separating the sleeping area from a dressing zone. Designers suggest using contrasting paint colors or impactful wallpaper on these walls to create a visual division. Helen Shaw of Benjamin Moore highlights that multiple paint shades can create distinct zones while maintaining harmony. Creating a niche bed is presented as an excellent solution for smaller rooms, maximizing floor space by tucking the bed into a corner, often under a window. Adding a curtain to the niche can further define a private sleep space, leaving the rest of the room open for other purposes. Smart styling and layout are also crucial, especially when physical divisions are not possible. Thoughtful furniture placement, layered textiles, and differentiated styling can make each section of a shared bedroom feel like a private retreat, separating spaces without actual physical barriers. For instance, varying bed frame styles and using side tables can delineate individual zones. Another practical approach involves using low-profile furniture or taller pieces like wardrobes as partitions. Leanne Kilroy, founder of Good Bones, explains how converting clothing storage into partitions can separate dressing and sleeping areas, making the sleeping space cozier and keeping potential clutter out of sight. This method can also enhance the view from the bed by avoiding a wall of wardrobes. For more permanent and modern solutions, installing internal glazing, such as Crittall doors, is recommended. This allows light to flood the room while providing a clear distinction between two spaces. Louise Wicksteed from Sims Hilditch notes that linen curtains can be added for privacy when needed. Building a solid wall is the most definitive way to create two entirely separate rooms, suitable for different occupants or contrasting activities, such as a child's bedroom and a play area. Interior designer Kati Curtis notes that while walls create boundaries, the design within each space gives it soul. Finally, the article discusses creating a secluded work nook within a bedroom, an increasingly popular need due to remote work. Fabric curtains can quickly separate a bed from a desk area, promoting a better work-life balance. Lightweight and portable screens are also highlighted as versatile options for temporary division, easily moved or stored to adapt to changing needs. These screens come in various styles, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. #BedroomDesign #RoomDividers #InteriorDesign #SpaceMaximization #HomeDecor #FunctionalLiving #SmallSpaceSolutions

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

The article 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

Siobhan Murphy of @interiorcurve has transformed an office into a dazzling Hollywood-style dressing room using a budget-friendly IKEA Pax hack. Inspired by her own Art Deco-themed wallpaper, "Blossom Fandango," the room features a vibrant color palette of peaches, greens, and pinks. The core of the design is built upon the IKEA PAX wardrobe system, chosen for its affordability, customizability, and quick availability. To elevate the wardrobes beyond their flat-pack origins, custom arched MDF cut-outs, bespoke molding, and coving from Orac were added, creating a high-end, built-in appearance. The arches are a particularly striking element, contributing to a boutique aesthetic within the space. The color scheme plays a crucial role in the room's maximalist design. A vivid peachy orange was chosen for the interior of the wardrobes and the ceiling, creating a joyful backdrop that complements the leopard print velvet lining the jewelry drawers. To introduce a sense of Old Hollywood elegance and ground the vibrant tones, a vintage verdigris green from Guild Lane was applied to the arches and drawers. This green hue echoes the subtle green elements in the wallpaper, adding depth and coherence to the overall design. Murphy's approach to color emphasizes using bold, contrasting shades while ensuring a unifying tone prevents the space from appearing chaotic. Attention to detail further enhances the room's glamorous appeal. A simple mirror was transformed into a Hollywood-style vanity by adding bulbs, which were then painted gold. Additionally, shell details, purchased affordably from Dunelm, were given a gold makeover and strategically placed to frame the arches, nodding to classic dressing room luxury. The project demonstrates that achieving a sophisticated, personalized look does not require an extravagant budget. By combining readily available, affordable items with creative vision and custom modifications, an ordinary space can be transformed into a unique and aspirational dressing room. The project, though requiring planning and effort, is highlighted as a rewarding endeavor that yields a highly personalized and aesthetically pleasing result. #IKEAHack #DressingRoomDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeMakeover #DIYDecor #ColorfulInteriors #BudgetDesign #MaximalistStyle #HollywoodGlam

This article explores various bedroom furniture ideas aimed at transforming a basic bedroom into a beautiful and functional sanctuary. It emphasizes that a bedroom should serve as more than just a place to sleep, but also a space for reading, relaxation, and even work. The piece draws on insights from interior designers such as Katie Ridder, Brigette Romanek, Tara Bernerd, Kirsten Blazek, Victoria Maria, and Holly Kopman, who offer practical advice and inspirational concepts. The first idea presented is the integration of a seating area within the bedroom. Designers suggest that if space permits, adding chairs, an armchair, or a bench can enhance the room's usability for activities beyond sleeping. When planning a seating area, it's crucial to consider the available space to ensure comfortable movement around furniture and to select upholstery that complements the existing decor. The purpose of the seating, whether for relaxation or work, should guide the choice of furniture materials and design. For smaller bedrooms, the article recommends creating a window seat as an efficient way to incorporate seating without occupying much floor space. A window seat offers an opportunity to enjoy views or sunlight and can be made more comfortable with plump cushions, a slim side table, and appropriate lighting. The key is to work intelligently with the room's layout and adopt a refined, simple approach to furniture to maintain a calm and tranquil atmosphere. The importance of scale in furniture selection is highlighted next. Large pieces like beds, nightstands, and wardrobes should be proportionally matched to the room size, with larger rooms accommodating generously sized furniture and smaller rooms benefiting from slimline designs. However, the article also notes that unexpected elements, such as an oversized table lamp, can add visual interest if balanced correctly. Introducing a daybed is another suggestion, allowing for moments of relaxation during daylight hours, separate from the main bed. Positioning a daybed near a window can create a bright, airy spot for recharging. The article also encourages adding pops of color through furniture choices to infuse personality into the space, moving beyond traditional wooden pieces. Interior designer Victoria Maria advocates for selecting furniture with interesting shapes, colors, or materials to build a unique design story. For a touch of luxury and elegance, the inclusion of a four-poster bed is discussed. These beds can create a sense of intimacy in rooms with high ceilings or add height to rooms with lower ceilings. Beyond the bed, designers recommend comfortable upholstered chairs and ottomans, or even sofas, to enhance the bedroom's function as a welcoming retreat. Built-in furniture is presented as a bespoke solution for maximizing space and creating custom storage, allowing for personalized design features. Finally, the article stresses the importance of functional bedside tables for organization and suggests modular furniture systems for flexibility and adaptability as needs change over time. #BedroomFurniture #InteriorDesign #BedroomLayout #HomeDecor #SeatingAreas #WindowSeats #FurnitureScale #ModularFurniture #ColorInDesign

Selecting the ideal dresser is a highly personal decision, influenced by both practical considerations and individual aesthetic preferences. The optimal dresser not only enhances a space's functionality but also shapes the living experience within it. Factors such as bedroom size, existing furniture styles (traditional, modern, bohemian, industrial), and storage capacity needs (e.g., three-drawer versus six-drawer) all play a crucial role in determining the most suitable piece. The article highlights how a dresser can contribute significantly to a room's overall aesthetic, citing examples like interior designer Paige Blodgett Scher’s vintage wood dresser, which adds a traditional touch to her studio, and Adut Akech’s modern, textured dressers in her nursery. To assist in this decision-making process, the article presents reviews of five top-contending dressers, along with five additional high-quality options from reputable retailers. The Thuma Nest Dresser is recognized as the "Best All-Around" option due to its sleek, minimalist design, 100% upcycled wood construction, and modularity, allowing for various configurations to fit different spaces and needs. It features soft-close drawers, easy assembly, and a versatile aesthetic that blends Scandi, mid-century, and 1970s California styles. The Article Lenia 4-Drawer Chest is deemed "Best for Minimalists" for its streamlined appearance, spacious soft-close drawers, and solid wood elements. It is available in multiple drawer configurations and serves as an excellent foundational piece for decorating a room. The West Elm Mid-Century 5-Drawer Dresser is recommended as "Best for Small Spaces" due to its tall yet sturdy design, offering ample storage within a compact footprint. This best-selling dresser is celebrated for its solid frame, roomy drawers, and vintage-inspired aesthetic. The Lulu and Georgia Suzette Tall Dresser is presented as the "Best Tall Dresser," distinguished by its timeless design, generous size, soft-close drawers, grasscloth paneling, and delicate brass knobs. Its height, however, is noted as a consideration for buyers based on personal preference. For those seeking a pop of color, the Schoolhouse Forma 3-Drawer Dresser is identified as "Best for Color Lovers." This Bauhaus-inspired piece features playful details like curvy metal supports and spherical knobs, available in Shell White and Lichen, offering a sturdy yet whimsical addition to a bedroom, particularly suitable for children's rooms. The article also includes additional recommendations such as the Castlery Crescent 6-Drawer Dresser for its multitasking capabilities with open shelving, the Pete Deeble Furniture Elaine Dresser for custom Scandi design, the Arhaus Danny 5-Drawer Dresser for space-saving elegance with marble accents, the Namesake Liberty 6-Drawer Dresser for cottagecore enthusiasts with its green hue and apothecary style, the Walker Edison Atticus Dresser for mid-century modern appeal in sustainable pine wood, and the Crate & Barrel Anneli 9-Drawer Dresser for a softer look with curved edges and burnished brass. The Ikea Storklinta 4-Drawer Chest is highlighted for apartment dwellers due to its budget-friendly price point, simple silhouette, and various drawer options. Finally, the Pottery Barn Summerville 7-Drawer Dresser is suggested for traditionalists, combining vintage-inspired details with modern functionalities. The selection process for these dressers emphasized diversity in design, suitability for different space requirements, and functional storage. Key criteria included quick shipping, ease of assembly, and the use of durable, quality materials. The article also delves into the best materials for a bedroom dresser, noting that while personal preference is paramount, factors like direct sunlight and climate can influence material choice. Engineered wood offers a budget-friendly option, while rattan may be less durable in hot climates. The Thuma Nest dresser, made from recycled wood, is cited for its versatile appearance, blending various design influences. #BedroomFurniture #DresserGuide #HomeStorage #InteriorDesign #FurnitureReviews #SmallSpaceSolutions #MidCenturyModern #MinimalistDesign #Cottagecore #HomeDecor

The author, a style and trends editor with a background in fashion and interiors, shares her preferred IKEA items for home remodeling projects, emphasizing budget-friendly options that can achieve a high-end look through customization. Despite generally preferring thrifted, unique pieces, she identifies several IKEA staples that have proven invaluable across two demanding remodels due to their practicality, adaptability, and design potential. The article highlights five categories of IKEA products that the author consistently repurchases. The first is the HAVSTA cabinet, which surprised her with its quality. Initially intended as a temporary placeholder for living room alcoves, its solid pine construction, soft-close doors, adjustable shelves, and classic shaker-style detailing allowed for easy customization. By adding filler pieces, decorative trim (like the Rope Twist Decorative Wood Trim Molding from Amazon), and painting it to match the room's Farrow & Ball hue, she transformed it into a custom-looking built-in unit, illustrating how to achieve a 'color drenched' aesthetic on a budget. The HAVSTA cabinet's versatility is further noted, as it can be used standalone or as part of a stackable unit. Next, the BEKVÄM step stool is praised for its unassuming utility during remodels. Its robust rubberwood construction makes it functional for reaching high places or painting, while also serving as a versatile piece of furniture such as a nightstand, plant stand, or side table. The author mentions its receptiveness to stain or paint, allowing for further personalization. The PAX storage system is presented as a crucial component for efficient closet organization, particularly valuable for its modularity and cost-effectiveness compared to custom cabinetry. The author details how she customized her PAX system with hanging rails, drawers, and pull-out trays to create a bespoke closet. A key tip provided for elevating melamine IKEA furniture is to use Zinsser B-I-N Shellac-Base Oil Primer before painting, ensuring durability and a professional finish. The PAX system's adjustable feet also make it suitable for old homes with uneven floors. The iconic Billy bookcase is another recommended item, particularly the smaller size. Its adaptability makes it suitable for various uses, from children's rooms to creating custom alcove shelving when combined with units like HAVSTA and enhanced with trim and crown molding. Its affordability and flat-pack design contribute to its appeal, especially during renovation periods, and its adjustable shelves offer flexibility for different storage needs. Finally, the author emphasizes the importance of organizational tools, describing them as essential for a truly finished and stress-free home. She recommends three specific IKEA organizing must-haves: the OSTBIT bamboo plate holder, which she uses for various items beyond kitchen plates; the BRANÄS rattan basket, valued for its ability to add texture and warmth while fitting perfectly into cubby-style shelves like the KALLAX unit; and the KNAGGLIG pine box, a sturdy and stackable solution for utility areas. These pieces offer affordable and aesthetically pleasing ways to contain clutter and maintain order. The article concludes by reaffirming that while the author may not be an exclusive IKEA shopper, these select items have consistently earned their place in her remodels. The underlying strategy is to choose wisely and personalize each piece to align with one's design vision and budget. Alternatives to the IKEA products are also suggested for those unable to access an IKEA store or seeking different options, such as the Tillman Accent Cabinet from Wayfair, the Unikito Freestanding Closet System from Amazon, and the Livingston Bookcase from Pottery Barn. #IKEAHacks #HomeRenovation #DIYBudget #InteriorDesign #StorageSolutions #FurnitureCustomization #BudgetDecor #HomeOrganization #DesignerTaste

This article explores nine innovative bedroom design ideas from interior designers, emphasizing that a bedroom should be a place of rest, retreat, and personal expression, rather than just a place to sleep. Mark Hampton, a renowned interior designer, stressed the importance of visual and physical comfort in every room, especially the bedroom. Ximena Rodriguez, principal and director of interior design at CetraRuddy in New York City, highlights the significant impact bedrooms have on well-being and mood, advocating for calming elements that promote relaxation and prevent waking up feeling unsettled. These transformations don't necessarily require extensive overhauls; simple changes like optimizing storage, adjusting layouts to embrace outdoor views, or introducing plush area rugs can create a serene, mood-boosting environment. Andrew Bowen, partner and head of ASH Staging in New York City, suggests refreshing aesthetics by manipulating focal points through texture, textiles, and color, avoiding major renovations. Key design ideas include making the bed the central focus of the room, positioning it strategically to command attention. Melanie Thomas of Melanie Thomas Design in Los Angeles advises enhancing the bed's prominence with a soft headboard or tapestry, aligning with Feng Shui principles that a bed should dominate the space. Maximizing natural light is another crucial element. Rodriguez recommends designing for light by considering how sun and shadows interact with the room throughout the day, suggesting simple solutions like replacing heavy drapes with roller shades or using art to catch light. Mood lighting plays a vital role in creating atmosphere; designers like Kelley Gable of Gable Interiors propose swapping outdated fixtures for statement chandeliers or using dimmers. Libby Rawes of Sharp + Grey Interiors suggests incorporating multiple light sources, such as task lamps on side tables and dressers, to provide ambient and functional illumination. Inviting unexpected textures can transform a bedroom into a sanctuary. Bowen emphasizes layering sumptuous textiles like unique area rugs, bespoke bedding, and warm throw blankets. The article also recommends updating the headboard as an often-overlooked design opportunity. Jaclyn Genovese of Spaces By Jacflash stresses investing in a headboard that reflects personal style, while Natalia Miyar suggests running the headboard the length of the wall for a cozy, cocooning effect, using bold fabrics to make a statement. Properly making the bed with seasonal bedding, such as cooling percale for warmer months and sateen for colder ones, is essential for comfort and overall well-being, as noted by Dean Tomihama of Sferra. Investing in new window treatments, such as fabric drapery with additional light control, can create the illusion of taller windows and revitalize the room, according to Kristina Phillips. Bringing in an appropriately sized area rug that anchors the furniture and extends beyond the bed by two to three feet can add coziness and define the space, a tip from Oshri Adri of Adri + Dahlman Interiors, who also suggests antique-style rugs for charm. Finally, adopting a darker paint palette with moody colors like aubergine, deep indigo blue, or terracotta can instantly create an atmosphere of calm and relaxation, with Thomas recommending painting the ceiling a few shades darker for a cohesive and enveloping feel. #BedroomDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #BedroomMakeover #LightingDesign #TextileLayering #HeadboardIdeas #WindowTreatments #AreaRugs #PaintPalette

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

The IKEA IVAR cabinet, a simple pine wood furniture piece, has gained significant popularity as a versatile item for home DIY and customization projects. Originally part of a shelving system introduced in 1967, the IVAR cabinet's untreated wood, ideal dimensions, and affordability make it an excellent canvas for creativity, as noted by Jana Cagin, founder of Prettypegs, a company specializing in customizing IKEA furniture. This article explores seven innovative hacks to elevate and transform the IVAR cabinet, allowing it to seamlessly integrate into various home styles. One popular transformation involves creating a floating sideboard. By mounting the IVAR cabinets directly onto the wall, a sleek, space-saving credenza can be achieved. This method is particularly effective for small living rooms, as it frees up floor space and contributes to a clean, minimalist aesthetic. Adding a custom wood top and minimalist handles further enhances this sophisticated look, with a coat of paint providing the finishing touch. Another creative approach involves painting patterns on the IVAR cabinet. Beyond solid color coats, individuals can explore various paint ideas, such as trending stripes for a 'stripe drenching' scheme or whimsical designs for a children's playroom. This technique allows for significant personalization and the integration of the cabinet into specific thematic decor. Matching the cabinet's paint color with the wall, a technique known as color drenching, is a highly popular home decor trend. This method creates a cohesive and immersive feel within a room. For example, painting IVAR cabinets and surrounding walls in a rich burgundy shade, such as Sherwin-Williams' Sommelier or Farrow & Ball's Etruscan Red, can produce a striking and on-trend result. This hack emphasizes the rewarding journey of transforming simple pieces into something special. Applying a reeded or fluted finish to the IVAR cabinet is another effective way to elevate its appearance. These textured finishes are currently trending in interior design, particularly for wall paneling, and can significantly enhance the perceived value of simple furniture. While DIY options involve wooden slats or reeded panelling kits, specialized companies like Prettypegs offer ready-made fluted panels designed specifically for IVAR cabinet doors, making customization accessible even for those without extensive DIY experience. Replacing handles and adding legs are among the easiest and most impactful furniture upcycling methods. Since IKEA IVAR cabinets typically come without legs or stylish handles, this hack offers a straightforward path to personalization. Adding chic wavy handles and sphere-shaped legs, for instance, can drastically alter the cabinet's aesthetic, making it appear more bespoke and designer-like. Companies such as Prettypegs, Plank Hardware, and Etsy offer a wide range of options for hardware and legs. Decorating the IVAR cabinet with wallpaper or decorative stickers provides another avenue for adding color and pattern. Utilizing leftover wallpaper from other projects or opting for custom-sized peel-and-stick wallpapers, such as those created through collaborations like Prettypegs and Photowall, can transform the cabinet's surface. Designs like the 'Morning Light layer design' offer a sophisticated and unique touch. Finally, incorporating rattan or cane inserts can give the IVAR cabinet a sophisticated and modern look, aligning with recent interior design trends. Similar to how these inserts are used in IKEA KALLAX hacks to create customized bar cabinets, applying them to IVAR cabinets can result in a piece that is virtually unrecognizable from its original budget-friendly flatpack form. This demonstrates the potential for transforming basic furniture into high-end-looking pieces through thoughtful customization. #IKEAIVARHacks #FurnitureUpcycling #DIYHomeDecor #IKEACustomization #HomeDecorTrends #InteriorStyling #SmallSpaceSolutions #CreativePaintIdeas #CaneInserts