How one DIYer created a raffia IKEA wardrobe for thousands less than its designer dupe

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

Megan Righelato from Essex transformed her bedroom and added a walk-in wardrobe using IKEA Pax units, saving approximately £800 in labor costs by completing the renovation herself. Having moved into her home in October 2020, Megan aimed to create a soothing sleep space and a functional walk-in wardrobe. The original bedroom featured beige walls and carpet, curtain-free windows, and numerous scuff marks, necessitating a complete overhaul. A small mirrored wardrobe in the room also failed to meet her storage needs. Working within a budget, Megan and her boyfriend dedicated their weekends to the project, completing it over roughly six weekends. This hands-on approach allowed them to keep the total cost for the bedroom renovation and walk-in wardrobe build to about £1,000, significantly less than if they had hired professional help. The average daily rate for a laborer, estimated at £200, would have added substantial costs to the project. The transformed bedroom now boasts a glamorous hotel-like ambiance. The drab walls and decor have been replaced with a stylish design featuring a smart bed, elegant wall paneling, and sophisticated lighting fixtures. Megan chose a neutral color palette to promote a calming atmosphere, incorporating black accents such as sockets and a statement chandelier to introduce modern touches. For the walk-in wardrobe, Megan drew inspiration from YouTube tutorials. The space, though appearing luxurious and expensive, was created using IKEA Pax units, costing around £600. To customize the units and integrate them seamlessly with the bedroom's traditional style, Megan added beading to the drawers, mimicking the wall paneling. The units were then painted in Crown’s Satin White and fitted with cup-shaped handles, giving them a more bespoke and high-end appearance. Despite initial challenges in understanding the wardrobe construction, Megan persevered, emphasizing the importance of not fearing mistakes and recognizing that renovations often look worse before they improve. The final walk-in wardrobe now provides ample storage for clothes and shoes, features a small dressing table area, and is completed with vinyl herringbone-effect flooring. Megan's successful DIY project showcases how careful planning and creative execution can result in a significant cost-saving and a beautifully transformed living space. More details of her home can be found on her Instagram account, @megsathome. #BedroomMakeover #IKEAPax #WalkInWardrobe #DIYHomeDecor #BudgetRenovation #HomeImprovement #StorageSolutions #GlamorousBedroom #InteriorDesign

The author recounts her experience after a cross-country move, transitioning from a cozy Brooklyn home to a larger house in the desert. Despite the increased square footage and seemingly ample closet space, the family still faced significant storage challenges, leading to accumulating piles of clothes and shoes that were often forgotten. This prompted the author to seek a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution for organizing their belongings, specifically by customizing IKEA's modular Pax wardrobe system to achieve a more bespoke look and improved functionality. To transform the standard IKEA Pax wardrobe into a custom storage unit, the author outlines six key steps. The first step involves painting the wardrobe. Recognizing the difficulty of painting IKEA's slick surfaces, the author recommends using Zinsser’s shellac-based primer followed by a topcoat, specifically Benjamin Moore’s Advance line for furniture. She suggests painting the wardrobe the same color as the walls to help it blend seamlessly into the room, opting for Benjamin Moore’s Knoxville Gray, a dark blue-gray with green undertones, which she finds appealing and unlikely to tire of. The second customization involves adding trim to the wardrobe. The author highlights the significant impact that a few inches of molding can make, specifically adding dentil trim to the top of her wardrobes to give them a more finished, crown-like appearance. The third step focuses on mirroring the doors. By selecting the less expensive Bergsbo-style Pax doors, the saved cost can be allocated to having custom-cut mirrors fitted by a glass shop and securely attached with mirror glue. Fourth, the author suggests personalizing the hardware. Since many Pax wardrobes lack pre-installed door hardware, adding simple pulls can dramatically alter their appearance. She describes finding chunky pulls at a hardware store and spray-painting them gold to add a luxurious touch. The fifth step addresses an aesthetic concern within the wardrobe itself: the exposed holes for adjustable shelves. To mitigate this, the author recommends wallpapering the interior surfaces. She used an inexpensive grass cloth from Lowe’s and painted it the same Knoxville Gray as the wardrobe for a cohesive and seamless interior finish. Finally, the sixth step details the creation of a dedicated vanity area for jewelry storage. This was achieved by installing one of the IKEA shelves at counter height, positioned above a series of drawers designated for clothing. A mirror was adhered to the back of the wardrobe to complete the vanity setup. For necklace organization, 40 small brass hooks were attached to a scrap piece of wood and hung inside. The author concludes by expressing her satisfaction with the transformation, noting a significant improvement in organization and the enjoyment derived from the new vanity. The enhanced organization has also freed up time to address other tasks around the house. #IKEAHack #PaxWardrobe #DIYProject #HomeOrganization #CustomFurniture #InteriorDesign #WardrobeRenovation #VanityCreation

Mallory Fletchall, known for her Instagram account @reserve_home, transformed IKEA Pax wardrobes in her two-bedroom Brooklyn apartment to appear as custom-built fixtures. Faced with a lack of closet space, Fletchall and her husband, David, utilized affordable IKEA Pax units and added a personal touch by cladding them in trim and picture frame molding. This DIY project aimed to make the wardrobes blend seamlessly with the existing architecture, giving them the appearance of being original to the home. The couple previously applied this hack to a Pax closet in their primary bedroom and subsequently updated a wardrobe in their spare bedroom, which functions as a movie lounge. The design for the second wardrobe was directly inspired by the original molding details found in their kitchen. The entire project, including the storage unit, cost approximately $400, with the DIY materials themselves amounting to about $150. Fletchall outlined a step-by-step process for replicating this hack. The necessary supplies included an IKEA Pax wardrobe (the 93-inch-tall version), 3/8” x 1 1/4” x 8′ general-purpose solid wood molding for the edges, and 5/16” x 11/16” x 8′ general-purpose solid wood molding for the interior shapes. Other essential items were 1 gallon of Valspar Interior-Exterior Bonding Primer, 1 gallon of desired paint color (they used Setting Plaster by Farrow & Ball), miter shears, 1” x 3 1/2” x 8′ wood trim pieces for the base and crown, and a 1 1/2” x 1 1/2” piece of wood for the crown molding's attachment point. Additional tools and materials included a paintbrush, nail gun, blue painter’s tape, caulk gun, drill, chop saw or hacksaw, and knobs of choice, along with optional items like a level, tape measure, and hammer. The first step involved assembling the IKEA wardrobe according to the manufacturer's instructions. Following assembly, blue painter’s tape was used to map out the desired molding design on the wardrobe doors, allowing for a visual preview of the placement. Fletchall and David replicated the exact dimensions of their kitchen's existing wall moldings, experimenting with both simpler and more ornate designs before finalizing their choice. The second step focused on creating and attaching the embellishments. Wood moldings were cut to size using miter shears, a tool that functions like heavy-duty scissors. These cut moldings were then secured to the doors with a nail gun. The outer edges received 3/8” x 1 1/4” moldings, maintaining a 2 1/4″ gap before the application of the interior 5/16” x 11/16” moldings. To achieve a built-in appearance, it was crucial to eliminate any gaps around the wardrobe. A 1 1/2” x 1 1/2” x 8′ wood plank was cut into three pieces (for the front and two sides) using a chop saw or hacksaw and drilled into the top of the wardrobe to serve as an anchor for the crown molding. Next, 1” x 3 1/2” x 8′ wood trim pieces were cut to cover the top front, sides, and bottom front and sides, and attached to the wood plank or the floor using a nail gun. All nail holes were then spackled and sanded, and any cracks around the floor, wall, and ceiling were filled with caulk. The final step involved priming and painting. Due to the challenging, sleek laminate finish of IKEA products, a strong primer was essential. Valspar’s Extreme Bond primer was applied in one coat. Once dry, two coats of Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster paint were applied with a brush. After the paint dried, the chosen knobs were drilled and screwed into place, completing the transformation with minimal power tools required. #IKEAHack #PaxWardrobe #DIYHomeDecor #MoldingTrim #HomeRenovation #BrooklynApartment #CustomCloset #AffordableDesign

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 details an innovative IKEA closet hack by Laura Crombie, who transformed standard IKEA Pax units into a custom-looking built-in wardrobe, saving approximately £1,200 compared to a professional carpenter's quote. The project aimed to achieve the highly sought-after built-in wardrobe aesthetic, typically a costly addition to a bedroom due to intricate labor. Laura's DIY approach provided a cost-effective solution, costing just £409 for materials. The process began with purchasing three 50x58x236cm IKEA Pax wardrobes and assembling them according to the provided instructions. These units were then securely attached to each other and to the wall. A crucial step involved leaving a 10cm gap between the final unit and the wall, which was later filled with a custom panel to create a seamless, integrated look. This attention to detail is key to mimicking the appearance of a truly built-in fixture. Following the basic assembly, Laura utilized two 62x240cm IKEA Forbattra kitchen end panels. One panel was used for the left-hand side of the wardrobe assembly, while the other was strategically cut to form both the top and right-hand side panels. A significant technique employed was scribing, where an offcut of wood and a pencil were used to trace the precise contours of the uneven walls and ceiling onto the panels. This ensured a flush fit, eliminating unsightly gaps that would otherwise betray the DIY nature of the project. The article emphasizes the importance of this step, suggesting that viewers consult YouTube tutorials for guidance on this potentially challenging task. After marking, a jigsaw was used to cut along the scribed lines, followed by light sanding to ensure smooth edges and a perfect fit. To attach the slim top panel and the right-hand side panel, Laura first secured a baton of wood to provide a stable anchoring point. The panels were then affixed using a strong adhesive, specifically a product referred to as "Sticks Like S**t," which she describes as highly effective. Further refining the built-in appearance, caulk was applied along all joints where the panels met the walls and ceiling. This was then smoothed with a damp finger, and any excess was wiped away, creating clean lines. The final steps involved attaching IKEA Bergsbo doors and gold handles, sourced from Amazon, to the wardrobe units, completing the elegant and classic aesthetic. Internal shelving and rails were then installed to customize the storage space. The article concludes by praising the finished product for its sophisticated look, making it indistinguishable from a professionally installed built-in wardrobe, and highlights the significant cost savings achieved through this clever IKEA hack. #IKEAHack #DIYCloset #BuiltInWardrobe #HomeImprovement #StorageSolutions #IKEAPax #InteriorDesign #BudgetRenovation

Achieving a custom-designed closet, often perceived as an expensive luxury, can be made accessible and affordable through clever utilization of IKEA products. Even for those with modest budgets, IKEA's range of modular, streamlined, and cost-effective furniture offers numerous possibilities for transforming any closet space into a highly personalized and practical storage solution. Beyond items specifically designated for closets, many other IKEA products can be repurposed to create a striking and functional environment for daily preparation and storage. Several IKEA items stand out for their versatility in creating a custom closet. The LACK wall shelf unit, for example, provides an unexpected and aesthetically pleasing display solution for beloved items like shoes, hats, or handbags. Available in white and black-brown, this unit can be installed horizontally or vertically, offering flexible placement options and ample weight capacity. Its high customer satisfaction, highlighted by a 4.8-star average, attests to its economic value, ease of assembly, and aesthetic appeal. For those with more substantial closet space, the KALLAX cubby system offers extensive customization. These units come in various configurations, including a four-cubby system that can be wall-mounted to free up floor space and provide a display surface. Larger KALLAX units can even span an entire wall, maximizing storage capacity. The system can be further enhanced with KALLAX Drawer Inserts or Cabinet Inserts, providing privacy and neatly concealing contents. This modularity allows for the creation of unique storage spaces capable of holding diverse items, from clothing and accessories to shoes and miscellaneous belongings. The SKRUVBY sideboard, though not originally intended for closets, presents a highly aesthetic and functional combination solution. Its design, featuring two cabinet doors, a small drawer, and three open shelves, offers extreme versatility. The cabinets can store bins of scarves or hats, while the shelves keep frequently used items visible and accessible. The drawer is ideal for jewelry or can form part of a makeshift makeup station when paired with a mirror and stool. Its appealing design and quality have earned it a 4.8-star customer rating, with users praising its functionality, affordability, and decorative qualities. Finally, the JONAXEL wire storage combination serves as an ideal solution for tight spaces, offering practical benefits like healthy airflow for shoes and easy visibility of contents. Its wire pull-out shelves make accessing items effortless, and its various configurations, including units with multiple wide compartments, allow for tailored storage solutions. Customers appreciate its ease of assembly and significant storage capacity. While perhaps less aesthetically ornate than the SKRUVBY, the JONAXEL prioritizes efficiency and organization. By creatively utilizing these and other IKEA products, individuals can construct a dream-level closet that is both functional and stylish, without the expense of a custom-designed system. #CustomCloset #IKEAHacks #HomeOrganization #DIYHomeDecor #ClosetDesign #StorageSolutions #InteriorRemodel #IKEAFurniture

This article details a DIY project to transform an IKEA Malm storage bed into a custom upholstered piece with a wavy headboard for a total cost of $120. The inspiration for this hack came from Garance Doré’s monochromatic bedroom and a whimsical wavy headboard by Giancarlo Valle. Liz Mundle initially purchased a $100 aluminum platform bed frame to keep her mattress off the floor but found it lacked storage. She then upgraded to an IKEA Malm bed, which offered valuable storage with its hydraulic system but still had a generic appearance. The project begins by preparing the bed base for upholstery. The first step, 'Batter Up,' involves assembling the bed frame's base to determine the fabric dimensions. Batting is cut into generously sized slivers, wide enough to wrap around the edges of the bed frame, and secured with a staple gun. The second step, 'Connect the Dots,' focuses on the upholstery fabric. Three long rectangles of fabric are cut, with extra coverage for the edges. Before stapling, these pieces are sewn together at the corners to ensure a seamless finish. Liz Mundle used a sewing machine, but hand-stitching is also an option. Step three, 'See the Big Picture,' recommends painting the walls if a monochromatic look is desired. Mundle chose 'Saturday on Sunday' by Backdrop, a color that closely matched her dark blue-green faux performance velvet fabric, aiming to create a cozy, cave-like bedroom atmosphere conducive to sleep. The fourth step, 'Ride the Wave,' addresses the headboard. Instead of using a single piece of plywood, Mundle divided it into four smaller pieces for easier handling and future transport. A curved cardboard template is used to draw a shallow, sloping wavy shape onto each plywood piece, which is then cut using a jigsaw. The fifth step, 'Wrap Up,' involves upholstering the headboard. Adhesive spray is applied to the plywood to prevent the upholstery from shifting. A single layer of batting is wrapped around the forward-facing part of the board, with a caution against using foam to avoid an overstuffed look. The fabric is then cut into large squares, pulled taut, and secured around the batting with staples. The final step, 'Lean Back,' describes the installation of the headboard. A level line is drawn on the wall, and four French cleats are mounted along this line. The metal backing part of each cleat is screwed to the uncovered side of the plywood headboard pieces, allowing them to be hooked onto the wall, completing the custom IKEA bed transformation. The article emphasizes the cost-effectiveness and relatively simple nature of the DIY, making it accessible even for those with limited upholstery experience. The result is a personalized, stylish bed with integrated storage, demonstrating how to elevate a basic IKEA item into a unique design statement. The detailed steps and material list provide a comprehensive guide for readers interested in replicating this home design project. #IKEAHack #DIYUpholstery #MalmBed #HeadboardDesign #BedroomRenovation #HomeDecor #StorageSolutions #WavyHeadboard #BudgetDecor

The IKEA PAX wardrobe system, despite its large size, is a popular choice for home customization due to its sturdy build, practical dimensions, and extensive range of organisational accessories. Pinterest reported a 60% increase in searches for 'IKEA PAX wardrobe' in the past year, highlighting a growing interest in transforming these flatpack units into bespoke pieces. Interior stylists Sienna Brooks and Sam Sutherland from Flitch emphasize the PAX system's flexibility as a framework for creativity, accommodating both maximalist and minimalist design preferences. This article details seven effective IKEA PAX hacks that elevate the standard flatpack wardrobe into a statement piece. One popular hack involves creating a built-in look, which, while not a simple DIY, offers a luxurious finish at a fraction of the cost of custom-fitted wardrobes. This involves raising the wardrobes, adding skirting boards, and using MDF to fill gaps, as demonstrated by content creator Joanna Fletcher. Another straightforward method is painting the wardrobes. This can be done to match existing wall colors for a cohesive feel, particularly in smaller bedrooms, or to create a striking contrast. For renters or those seeking a no-drill option, removable vinyl wraps offer a versatile alternative. A panelled finish is another effective hack, with experts recommending fluted MDF panels in heritage colours like olive or deep charcoal blue. This technique aligns with 2025 interior trends for ribbed and reeded wall panelling. Replacing the standard, often uninspiring IKEA handles with more decorative options is an easy way to add a custom touch and a boutique-hotel aesthetic. For those with access to tools like a jigsaw, adding cane panels involves cutting out sections of the wardrobe doors and replacing them with rattan or cane webbing, introducing texture and reflecting light in smaller rooms. Alternatively, incorporating colour and pattern through wallpaper is a way to elevate panels without cutting, and also provides an opportunity to use leftover wallpaper. Finally, integrating motion-sensor lighting inside the wardrobes is a practical and luxurious addition, making the space feel more sophisticated and functional, especially in low-light conditions. These hacks demonstrate how the IKEA PAX system can be creatively transformed into highly personalized and stylish storage solutions. #IKEAHacks #PAXWardrobe #DIYHomeDecor #CustomFurniture #BedroomStorage #InteriorDesign #FlatpackTransformation #HomeImprovement #WardrobeMakeover

This article explores ten creative IKEA laundry room hacks designed to transform functional spaces into stylish and efficient areas. The central theme revolves around customizing standard IKEA components, primarily kitchen cabinets and shelving units, to achieve a bespoke look and feel at a fraction of the cost of custom-built solutions. The guide emphasizes that these hacks not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of a laundry room but also significantly improve its functionality through clever storage solutions. The article begins by highlighting how IKEA kitchen drawers and countertops, such as the Metod system and Ekbacken countertop, can be repurposed to create ergonomic and visually appealing laundry setups. One example showcases how integrating IKEA kitchen drawers allows for a more natural height for loading washing machines, while using Veddinge door fronts and Eneryda handles adds a cohesive and modern touch. Overhead drying racks and wicker baskets further contribute to both storage and character, particularly for small laundry rooms. Moving on to color and design, the article presents various aesthetic transformations. One hack involves using bright, sunny yellow Semihandmade DIY Shaker door fronts on IKEA Sektion cabinets to create a cheerful and inviting atmosphere. This approach demonstrates how a bold color choice, combined with patterned wallpaper and storage baskets, can make the chore of laundry more pleasant. Another suggestion is to opt for a moody blue hue, using IKEA Axstad matte blue doors with brass knobs and cup pulls, to achieve a sleek and contemporary look while maximizing storage in rooms that previously lacked it. The guide also delves into creating a modern traditional style. An example features IKEA Sektion base cabinets upgraded with bespoke walnut countertops and Semihandmade DIY Shaker door fronts painted in Farrow & Ball's 'De Nimes'. This design focuses on blending classic elements like hex tile flooring, a Victorian bridge faucet, and beadboard backing with modern touches like brass handles, all while ensuring ample storage for various household items. For shelving, the article recommends using IKEA Tornviken shelves to declutter countertops and add decorative elements. The integrated rail on these shelves offers practical hanging space, and their adaptability allows for personalization, such as spray-painting metal rails to match other hardware. A calming yet chic green aesthetic is achieved by pairing IKEA Sektion bases with Semihandmade cabinet fronts in Farrow & Ball's 'Pigeon,' demonstrating how budget-friendly options like grouped tiles for a backsplash and remnant slabs for countertops can be combined with higher-end fittings for a balanced design. The versatility of IKEA Ivar cabinets is also showcased, with one hack transforming them into stylish wall cupboards for small laundry rooms. The use of peel-and-stick metro tiles further illustrates how budget-conscious yet trendy materials can contribute to a sophisticated finish. For a contemporary look, the article suggests two-tone cabinets, using Semihandmade Quarterline collection fronts on IKEA Sektion bases, combining shades like Desert Grey and White to add depth and visual interest. Finally, the article explores Scandi rustic and mid-century modern aesthetics. European Oak door fronts from Custom Fronts on an IKEA Metod base create a warm, natural look, complemented by geometric tiles and rattan lighting. For a mid-century modern vibe, IKEA Sektion cabinets are paired with Semihandmade Tahoe wood door fronts and botanical wallpaper, demonstrating how even a dark basement laundry room can be made inviting and stylish. The article concludes by emphasizing that these IKEA hacks offer practical and aesthetic improvements, making laundry tasks more enjoyable. #IKEAHacks #LaundryRoomDesign #HomeRenovation #DIYHomeDecor #InteriorDesign #BudgetDecor #CustomCabinets #StorageSolutions

The author shares an experience living in a New York City apartment that, despite its ideal location and features like bright morning light and high ceilings, lacked a single closet. This presented a significant challenge for the three roommates, all of whom have a strong interest in fashion and a substantial collection of clothes and shoes. Recognizing the necessity for a storage solution, they decided to create a custom closet system. The initial touring of the Williamsburg, Brooklyn, apartment left them captivated by its aesthetic qualities. However, the absence of any closets became apparent only after they had already envisioned their lives there. A brief hope of finding a utility closet was dashed upon discovering it housed only the water heater. Faced with the dilemma of accommodating their extensive wardrobes, the roommates understood that a DIY solution was essential, particularly one that was budget-friendly, aligning with their status as twenty-somethings. Their solution involved transforming an unused hallway adjacent to the entry area into a functional "walk-in closet." After considering various options, including the more elaborate and expensive Pax wardrobes from IKEA, they opted for a simpler and more economical approach. They chose IKEA’s Mulig clothes bars, which cost $5.99 each. For the entire project, they purchased six bars, two for each roommate, bringing the total cost to a mere $36. The Mulig clothes bars proved to be an excellent choice due to their adjustable length, expanding from 23 inches to 35 inches. This feature allowed for a creative arrangement where the top racks were extended slightly longer than the bottom ones. This design effectively created space for longer garments like dresses and winter coats to hang freely to the floor without obstruction. To ensure the stability and security of the installed racks, toggle anchors were used, firmly affixing them to the wall. Each roommate was allocated a designated section within the newly created closet, while also maintaining the flexibility for shared use when needed. To further enhance the storage capacity, wood shelving was later installed above the clothes bars. This shelving system mirrored the one used for their bookshelves, providing additional space specifically for shoes. Daily wear items such as T-shirts, loungewear, and other foldable clothing were stored in individual dressers, allowing the hallway closet to be dedicated to blouses, dresses, and coats. This innovative and cost-effective custom closet not only resolved their storage problem but also added a unique and personalized element to their apartment, making it feel truly complete for their fashion-loving lifestyle. #IKEAHack #ClosetOrganization #SmallSpaceSolutions #DIYHomeDecor #BudgetFriendlyDesign #ApartmentLiving #MuligClothesBar #HallwayTransformation #ProductReview

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 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

The article details the transformation of a homeowner's laundry room, which also served as the main entry point from the garage. The original space was described as a narrow, claustrophobic hallway with sliding closet doors and a dated cabinet, making entry difficult for a family with three children. The homeowner, Natasha, had planned to renovate this area for four years, but the project was initiated during the COVID-19 lockdown as a positive focus. The renovation spanned two months and aimed to enhance both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the space. The first phase of the renovation involved updating the existing cabinetry. The wooden cabinets were repainted in Benjamin Moore’s 'Blue Nose,' a bright sky blue, and fitted with new matte black hardware. The old countertop was replaced with a wooden countertop from IKEA. An additional IKEA wooden countertop was installed over the front-load washer and dryer, providing more surface area for folding laundry and increasing storage potential. A new, high-arch faucet was also installed to improve usability. A significant alteration was made to the opposite side of the room, where the original sliding closet doors were removed. This change created space for built-in units, which were cleverly constructed using IKEA furniture. Specifically, a LIATORP TV unit was repurposed to form a bench, and HEMNES wall shelves were utilized for the top cubbies. To achieve a custom, cohesive look, trim was added to the wall behind these units, and the entire assembly was painted the same blue as the cabinets. This strategic use of IKEA products, combined with additional trim and paint, successfully created the appearance of high-end custom woodworking at a more affordable cost. An unexpected challenge arose during the renovation when Natasha’s husband attempted to remove the popcorn ceiling. It was discovered that the ceiling had been incorrectly applied, which would have necessitated a full skim coat for proper removal, a prospect Natasha found daunting. As an alternative, they opted to install tongue-and-groove MDF, giving the ceiling a paneled aesthetic. Although this added an unforeseen cost to the project, Natasha expressed satisfaction with the final result, highlighting that the unplanned change ultimately contributed positively to the room's overall appearance. Natasha reported significant improvements in the transformed laundry room. She appreciates the increased brightness of the space and the enhanced ease of access when entering the house from the garage. The blue cabinets, contrasted with the white walls, add a vibrant touch, and the wood counters provide warmth. A practical benefit she noted was the elimination of socks falling behind the washing machine, a common frustration in the previous layout. While some minor decorative touches are still planned, the space is now considerably more functional and visually appealing, meeting the family's needs more effectively. #IKEAHack #LaundryRoom #HomeRenovation #DIYProject #BeforeAndAfter #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #StorageSolutions

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