27 IKEA Hacks That Elevated These Living Rooms
When it comes to transforming living spaces without breaking the bank, IKEA hacks have become a modern interior design phenomenon. IKEA’s functional and affordable furniture forms the perfect canvas for creativity. From minimalist apartments to cozy family rooms, these hacks have turned ordinary pieces into stunning statement furniture. In this guide, I’ll share 27 IKEA hacks that elevated living rooms, making them not only functional but also Instagram-worthy. Think of it as a friend walking you through the most inspiring ways to turn flat-pack furniture into personalized design magic.
1. BILLY Bookcase as a Room Divider
The BILLY bookcase is iconic. Instead of using it just for books, position two units back-to-back. This creates a stylish room divider in an open-plan living room. You can leave it open for airy visibility or add doors for hidden storage. The hack transforms your space, creating a cozy reading nook or an office corner, while keeping the room light and inviting. A simple coat of paint or wallpaper behind the shelves can take this ordinary bookcase from bland to boutique-level.
2. KALLAX Shelf Storage Bench
KALLAX shelves are deceptively versatile. By adding legs and baskets, you instantly create a chic storage bench. It’s perfect for the living room corner or under a window. The baskets hide clutter, while the top acts as a comfy seating area. I tried this hack in my own apartment, and it completely changed the vibe—suddenly, the window nook became the coziest spot in the house. Pro tip: choose baskets with different textures to add depth.
3. LACK Table Upgrade
A simple LACK table doesn’t have to stay simple. Add a layer of glass and stencils for a custom coffee table. You can paint geometric patterns or even apply marble decals under the glass. The table goes from basic to bold, acting as a centerpiece that sparks conversation. I’ve seen friends completely transform their living rooms by experimenting with colors that reflect the room’s personality.
4. POÄNG Chair Reupholstery
The POÄNG chair is comfy but predictable. Reupholstering it with high-end fabrics instantly elevates it. Velvet, linen, or even patterned textiles breathe new life into the design. It’s like giving a familiar friend a stunning new wardrobe. The comfort remains the same, but the aesthetic upgrade is undeniable. This is one hack where splurging slightly on fabric pays off tenfold in visual appeal.
5. FÄRGRIK Floating Shelves
FÄRGRIK shelving units become floating shelves when mounted with invisible brackets. This minimalist approach adds elegance and lightness to a room. Perfect for displaying plants, vases, or curated art. The trick is painting the brackets to match the shelf for a “magically floating” effect. It’s a simple hack that elevates the room’s sophistication effortlessly.
6. RIBBA Gallery Wall
RIBBA frames are a small investment with big returns. Group them for a gallery wall, then add a pop of custom color on mats or frames. This creates a living-room gallery without paying an art consultant. The result feels personal, like your walls are telling a story. I love mixing family photos with quirky prints; it makes the space feel lived-in and vibrant.
7. HEMNES TV Unit Makeover
Painting a HEMNES TV unit and adding brass handles gives it a high-end feel. Dark paint with metallic accents instantly upgrades the classic pine look. Add baskets for concealed storage, and suddenly your entertainment center looks custom-designed. This hack proves that thoughtful hardware and paint choices are sometimes all you need to elevate mass-market furniture.
8. MALM Dresser Customization
Stacking MALM drawers and adding new handles or contrasting paint colors transforms a basic dresser. It’s a stylish storage solution and a focal point in the living room. Try mixing matte and glossy finishes for a subtle designer touch. In my experience, even small tweaks like replacing knobs can make a room feel entirely new.
9. IVAR Cabinet Pop of Color
The IVAR cabinet is perfect for customization. Painting the inside a bold hue while leaving the exterior neutral adds a fun, hidden element. Every time you open it, you’re met with a little surprise. Pair this with plants or decorative objects on top to create a dynamic, layered look. It’s a small touch that makes a big emotional impact.
10. LACK Wall Shelf Geometry
Combining multiple LACK wall shelves in geometric arrangements creates an eye-catching display. Triangles, zigzags, or asymmetrical layouts break up bland walls beautifully. Add accent pieces like candles, books, or small sculptures. I tried this in my living room, and guests always comment on how artistic and lively it feels, proving that geometry can be fun and functional.
11. EKTORP Sofa Slipcover
The EKTORP sofa is a living-room staple. Swapping its slipcover with patterned fabrics gives a designer vibe. It’s easy to wash, change, and adapt to seasons. Think bold stripes in summer, warm earthy tones in winter. It’s one of those hacks that feels effortless but completely transforms the space’s character.
12. KIVIK Sofa Detailing
Adding fringe or piping to a KIVIK sofa turns it into a statement piece. This small detail adds sophistication and a tactile element. It’s a perfect balance of comfort and style, making the sofa more than just seating—it becomes part of the room’s personality.
13. LACK Side Table Plant Stand
Transform a LACK side table into a tiered plant stand by stacking and securing multiple tables. This hack is perfect for plant lovers who want vertical greenery without using floor space. Adding small LED lights around the plants enhances ambiance. It’s amazing how a simple piece can change the room’s mood entirely.
14. FROSTA Stool Accent Chair
FROSTA stools are incredibly versatile. Paint them in bold colors and add upholstered seats to create unique accent chairs. They’re light, easy to move, and perfect for small apartments. I’ve used these as extra seating during parties, and they always double as quirky decor pieces.
15. LILLÅNGEN Cabinet Bar Hack
Mounting a LILLÅNGEN cabinet as a floating vanity can double as a chic mini-bar. Add stylish glassware, small bottles, and ambient lighting for a luxe effect. It’s functional, compact, and perfect for entertaining guests without sacrificing space.
16. BESTÅ Modular Wall Units
BESTÅ units are ideal for modular storage. Combine different sizes, colors, and textures to create a wall of customized storage. Use it for media, books, or decorative displays. The flexibility allows the unit to evolve with your needs—a rare feature in many high-end furniture pieces.
17. MOSSLANDA Floating Desk
MOSSLANDA ledges make a great floating desk for small living rooms. Add a chair, a laptop, and some decorative items. It’s an instant functional workspace that doesn’t crowd the room. The minimal design keeps the area airy, yet highly practical.
18. KNAGGLIG Rustic Shelving
Stack KNAGGLIG crates, stain them, and secure with brackets for rustic shelving. Perfect for books, plants, or storage baskets. The natural wood tones warm up modern living rooms and introduce texture effortlessly.
19. RASKOG Cart Mini-Bar
RASKOG carts are mobile, stylish, and perfect as a mini-bar or craft station. Roll it to your living room corner, load it with essentials, and suddenly, you have a flexible and charming display. The portability adds practicality and fun.
20. BRIMNES Daybed Transformation
The BRIMNES daybed is a multifunctional hero. Add a mattress topper, stylish bedding, and throw pillows to create a guest-ready bed and sofa combo. Perfect for small apartments where space is at a premium. It’s a practical hack that feels luxurious.
21. HEKTAR Industrial Lamp
Spray painting a HEKTAR lamp adds a modern industrial vibe. Choose matte black or metallic finishes for a statement piece. Lighting impacts mood more than almost any other design element, and this simple hack delivers instantly.
22. FINTORP Rail Organization
FINTORP rails aren’t just for kitchens. Use them in living rooms for storing small essentials like remotes, keys, or magazines. Hang baskets or hooks for a playful and functional wall display.
23. HEMNES Bench Cushion
Add a custom cushion to a HEMNES bench to make it a stylish entryway or living-room seat. Pair with throws and decorative pillows for extra comfort. It’s a small addition with a huge impact on coziness.
24. EKET Cabinet Wall Storage
Wall-mount EKET cabinets and paint them in bold colors for a fun, modern look. This hack allows for flexible storage arrangements while turning functional furniture into art.
25. STRANDMON Playful Chair
Adding painted legs or tassels to STRANDMON chairs makes them playful and unique. Perfect for adding a touch of whimsy without compromising classic design elements.
26. TJUSIG Magazine Stand
Repurpose a TJUSIG shoe rack as a media or magazine stand. Its open structure is perfect for easy access and stylish display. I’ve found that it keeps clutter organized while remaining visually appealing.
27. VITTSJÖ Industrial Table
Layer wood and metal on a VITTSJÖ table for an industrial-chic look. Combining textures instantly elevates the design, making this affordable table feel custom-built.
