IKEA is the world’s largest furniture retailer for a reason. Its signature flat-pack design makes for easy furniture assembly, and the clean, minimalist style means the pieces match most aesthetics and decor schemes.
But, arguably, the best thing about IKEA is its affordable prices. The budget-friendly furniture allows everyone to turn empty rooms into the home of their dreams.
Clever hacks for how to transform IKEA furniture into one-of-a-kind pieces have taken the internet by storm in recent months. Tips and tricks for revamping IKEA’s KALLAX shelving unit have been all over our feeds, so we’ve compiled a list of all the best hacks that are total game-changers for your home.
These IKEA KALLAX hacks are a fantastic way to update a space without breaking the bank, especially if you already have a KALLAX unit that you’re keen to upcycle.
Try one of these KALLAX hacks today and put your stamp on this versatile piece of furniture.
12 IKEA KALLAX hacks for 2025
1. Add arch doors with faux cane webbing
Kicking off our list is this spectacular KALLAX transformation by Tina Le. This timeless treasure is one of the more challenging IKEA KALLAX hacks we’ve included, but the show-stopping result makes it well worth the effort.
Watch Tina’s tutorial on YouTube to discover how she made stylish doors for the unit by cutting out arch shapes and adding burlap to give it the appearance of cane webbing for less.
2. Bench seat with built-in storage
Dream Interior’s DIY bench is the perfect spot for relaxing, and it also doubles as storage. Plus, it’s really easy to make.
Create a padded cushion for the top of your KALLAX unit by sticking blue foam to a board of wood and covering it with any fabric you like. And voila! You have a functional piece of furniture that’s super affordable and looks great too.
3. Bespoke sideboard with hairpin legs
Elevate your KALLAX and create this stunning Scandi-style sideboard from YourHomeStyle.
Simply attach hairpin legs and two Kallax door inserts, then add handles before sanding down the worktop. Leave the sideboard as it is for a modern and understated look, or decorate it to suit your style.
4. Home bar cabinet
Enjoy the pleasures of going to a bar without having to leave the house with this fun IKEA KALLAX hack from Dash of Jazz.
With the help of a friend or partner, this DIY project can be completed in just one afternoon and will save you a considerable amount of money compared to buying new. Read Dash of Jazz’s tutorial to find out how to make yours, and make a feature of all your favourite tipples!
Find more home bar inspo!
If you love the DIY home bar cabinet, our article on DIY bar cart ideas will be right up your street. You’ll find tons of inspiration for making your own personal mini bar, and a range of bar carts to buy at various price points.
5. Kitchen island
Increase the surface space in your kitchen by turning IKEA’s KALLAX unit into an island.
Recreate the one on ikeahackersofficial by adding a wooden countertop for more room when cooking and a couple of baskets (these are perfect for kitchen tools and utensils). By maximising storage space, you'll have a tidier, well-organized kitchen that's a joy to spend time in.
6. Children’s bed
We’re always looking for savvy ways to utilise space in our homes! This ingenious IKEA KALLAX hack allows you to transform a small box room into a cosy children’s bedroom.
Make a bedframe by adding a piece of MDF on top of two KALLAX shelves, then attach both units to the wall. Add a mattress, colourful duvet, pillows, cushions, blankets and soft toys for the finishing touch.
Bedtimes will become the highlight of your little one’s day! You could also add a small ladder to help younger children climb up to their little haven.
Find out how to make this DIY IKEA bed on Ideal Home.
7. Desk/workspace
Working from home has become the new normal in recent years, so having a proper desk with space for your computer and work essentials is vital for many.
Keeping It Simple breaks down how to make a DIY computer desk by topping two KALLAX shelf units with a piece of melamine cut to size.
Give this IKEA KALLAX hack a go and create a spacious work area with plenty of storage to ensure your desk remains clutter-free. Tidy desk, tidy mind!
8. Changing table
Having a baby is a truly magical and exciting time, but it’s also very expensive, and this can be a major worry for new parents. That’s why we love this DIY changing table from Effie Row!
Start the nesting process on a budget by converting the KALLAX shelves into a changing table. Then add drawers and inserts to keep all your baby-changing supplies tidy and in one place.
9. Storage for art and papercraft supplies
If, like us, you have an ever-increasing collection of pens, pencils, papers and stickers, IKEA’s KALLAX shelves are the perfect way to get them in order.
This KALLAX hack from Stamp-n-Storage is one of the easiest ones on our list and doesn’t require any DIY at all – so everyone can give it a go.
Simply buy some pen and paper organisers, add a couple of boxes for extra storage, and stash your art supplies in an organised, aesthetically pleasing way.
10. Coffee station
Turn a corner of your home into your own personal coffee shop with this fabulous IKEA KALLAX hack from sarabethmakes!
Attach wooden legs to the bottom of your shelving unit and add a laminate or wooden board (which has been cut to size) to the top. Finally, add IKEA inserts to create drawers or cupboards.
Now, all that’s left is to get out your coffee machine, syrups, and mugs, and you’ve got everything you need for your morning cup. Just think of all the money you’ll save not buying that daily takeaway coffee!
11. Toy storage
Enjoy playtime without dreading the clean-up with this helpful nursery storage idea from _itsmamnotmum_.
Add some neutral-toned baskets to the unit for a minimalist look. This will give your nursery or playroom a sense of calm. Then round up any toys without a home and reclaim some floor space.
12. Bedside table
Make your bedside table easily and on budget by adding inserts to a square KALLAX unit. Pack the cupboard and drawers with all your wind-down essentials, such as a book, face mask, and favourite bedtime snacks.
Make your dream furniture for less!
Furnishing your home and making it a space you truly adore doesn’t have to cost a fortune. IKEA’s KALLAX shelving units are affordable and fit with most interior design styles due to the minimalist look.
The shelving units also make excellent blank canvases for anyone who wants to create a totally unique piece for their home. Why not make something beautiful that perfectly captures your personality and style or reproduce an item of furniture you’ve seen and loved for less? This single piece of furniture makes for endless possibilities!
Discover more DIY hacks with Gathered
If you’ve loved giving your old KALLAX shelving unit a new lease of life, we’ve got loads of other DIY and upcycling projects for you to get stuck into.
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