31 Creative Ikea Ivar Hacks That Transform Basic Shelving Into Custom Furniture

The Ikea Ivar system stands out as one of the most versatile and hackable pieces in the Swedish retailer’s lineup.

This unfinished pine storage solution offers endless possibilities for customization, allowing you to create furniture that looks custom-built at a fraction of the cost.

With its simple, sturdy construction and modular components, Ivar provides the perfect blank canvas for your DIY dreams.

From sophisticated storage solutions to statement furniture pieces, these hacks elevate the humble pine shelving to designer-worthy status.

Whether you’re furnishing your first apartment or updating your family home, these 31 Ivar hacks will inspire you to see the potential in this affordable Ikea classic and create functional, beautiful pieces that perfectly suit your space and style.

1: Sophisticated Media Console

Transform an Ivar cabinet into a mid-century inspired media console by adding tapered wooden legs and brass hardware.

Paint the exterior in a sophisticated color while leaving the interior natural pine for contrast.

Apply wood veneer to the cabinet front for added luxury or create geometric patterns with wood trim.

This simple upgrade creates a high-end entertainment center that looks nothing like its budget-friendly origins.

2: Built-In Office Storage Wall

Combine multiple Ivar units to create a wall of storage that looks like custom built-ins.

Secure the units side by side, add crown molding at the top, and paint everything the same color as your walls.

Install cabinet doors on some sections while leaving others open for display.

This comprehensive solution maximizes vertical storage space while creating a cohesive, designer-worthy home office setup.

3: Kitchen Pantry System

Convert Ivar shelving into a freestanding pantry with adjustable storage options.

Add hooks to the sides for hanging utensils and install wire baskets for fruit and vegetable storage.

Paint the entire unit in a color that complements your kitchen or apply food-safe wood oil.

This versatile pantry solution works especially well in kitchens lacking built-in storage and can move with you to future homes.

4: Bar Cabinet Transformation

Turn an Ivar cabinet into a sophisticated bar by adding mirrored backing, stemware racks, and bottle storage compartments.

Install LED lighting to highlight your collection and create ambiance.

Add wine glass storage underneath by installing holders to the bottom of an upper shelf.

This entertainment-ready hack provides organized storage for your spirits while becoming a focal point in your living or dining area.

5: Nursery Wardrobe With Changing Table

Combine Ivar components to create a multifunctional nursery storage system with a built-in changing table.

Reinforce one section at counter height with a padded changing topper secured to the surface.

Add clothing rods, small drawers for accessories, and adjustable shelves for diapers and supplies.

This practical nursery solution grows with your child by simply removing the changing top when no longer needed.

6: Fluted Sideboard Makeover

Transform Ivar cabinets into a designer-worthy sideboard by adding fluted wood detail to the front panels.

This architectural feature instantly elevates the simple pine cabinet to custom furniture status. Add slim legs for height and brass hardware for sophistication.

This textural upgrade creates visual interest and dimension, turning basic storage into a stunning focal point for dining rooms or entryways.

7: Home Office Desk Configuration

Create a complete home office solution by using Ivar side units as desk supports with shelving above for additional storage.

Connect the units with a desktop surface of your choice—butcher block works beautifully. Customize the shelving configuration based on your specific needs.

This integrated workspace provides organized storage for supplies, files, and equipment with plenty of surface area for working.

8: Kitchen Island With Seating

Convert Ivar shelving into a functional kitchen island by combining units with a substantial countertop that extends to create an eating bar.

Add casters for mobility or stabilizing legs for permanent placement. Install hooks and rails on the sides for hanging towels and utensils.

This multifunctional piece adds valuable workspace and storage to kitchens of any size while providing casual dining options.

9: Floating Bathroom Vanity

Transform an Ivar cabinet into a wall-mounted bathroom vanity by adding a vessel sink and waterproof sealing.

Raise the unit off the floor for a contemporary floating appearance that makes small bathrooms feel larger.

Create openings for plumbing and add door fronts to conceal toiletries.

This unexpected bathroom solution provides stylish storage while showcasing your design creativity in a typically conventional space.

10: Cane Door Cabinet

Update Ivar cabinets with trendy cane webbing inserts on the door fronts.

This natural material adds texture and visual interest while maintaining an airy feel compared to solid doors. Paint the frame in a contrasting color to highlight the cane detail.

This designer-inspired hack brings warmth and organic elements to your storage while allowing partial visibility of cabinet contents.

11: Entryway Organization Station

Create a comprehensive entryway system using Ivar components configured for coats, shoes, and accessories.

Install hooks or a rod at the top for hanging jackets and add bench seating with shoe storage below. Include small cubbies for keys, mail, and personal items.

This multifunctional entryway solution keeps everyday essentials organized while providing a dedicated space for arriving and departing your home.

12: Home Bar Cabinet With Wine Rack

Modify an Ivar cabinet with diagonal dividers to create wine bottle storage below and liquor storage above.

Add a pull-out work surface for mixing drinks and specialized storage for barware. Install stemware racks and ambient lighting for atmosphere.

This entertaining-focused hack creates a complete home bar experience in a compact footprint, perfect for apartments or smaller homes.

13: Arched Bookcase Transformation

Add architectural interest to basic Ivar shelving by creating an arched top frame.

Cut curved pieces to form an arch and attach them to the upper portion of the standard rectangular unit. Paint the entire piece in a bold color for maximum impact.

This decorative modification turns utilitarian storage into a statement piece that resembles custom millwork rather than assemble-yourself furniture.

14: Kids’ Art Station

Adapt Ivar shelving into a creative workspace for children by adding a fold-down desktop surface and art supply storage.

Install paper roll holders, cups for brushes, and specialized compartments for materials. Paint the unit in bright, inspiring colors or chalkboard paint for additional drawing space.

This dedicated creativity zone contains art messes while encouraging your children’s self-expression and imagination.

15: Herringbone Door Detail

Upgrade plain Ivar cabinet fronts with herringbone-patterned wood slats.

Cut thin strips of wood and arrange them in the classic V-pattern across door fronts for sophisticated texture and visual interest.

Stain the herringbone detail in a contrasting tone or paint the entire piece.

This woodworking upgrade transforms basic cabinets into furniture worthy of high-end design magazines with relatively simple techniques.

16: Modular Record Collection Display

Customize Ivar shelving specifically for vinyl records by adjusting shelf heights to accommodate album covers.

Add dividers for organizing by genre and display rails to showcase favorite album artwork.

Install LED lighting to highlight your collection and include storage for your turntable and equipment.

This music lover’s setup properly stores your vinyl while turning your collection into decorative art.

17: Plant Stand And Room Divider

Convert narrow Ivar shelving into a combination plant display and room divider for open-concept spaces.

Stagger shelves at various heights to accommodate plants of different sizes and growth habits. Add casters for mobility and trays to catch water drainage.

This green solution brings nature indoors while defining separate areas in your space without constructing permanent walls.

18: Hidden Home Office

Transform an Ivar cabinet into a concealed workspace that closes away when not in use.

Install a fold-down desk surface inside with organizational pockets and cord management for electronics.

Add task lighting and a corkboard or magnetic panel for notes.

This clever solution provides a complete home office without dedicating permanent space, perfect for small apartments or multi-use rooms.

19: Library Ladder Bookcase

Create a dramatic home library using tall Ivar shelving with a rolling ladder for access to upper shelves.

Connect multiple units side by side, anchor them securely, and install ladder hardware across the front. Paint the entire assembly in a rich, sophisticated color.

This statement-making storage solution maximizes vertical space while bringing architectural interest and old-world charm to contemporary homes.

20: Montessori-Inspired Kid’s Storage

Adapt Ivar shelving to create child-accessible, Montessori-style storage that encourages independence.

Position shelves at lower heights with clear containers that show contents, allowing children to select and return items themselves.

Add picture labels for pre-readers and include a step stool for slightly higher shelves.

This child-centered organization system fosters autonomy while keeping toys and activities neatly contained.

21: Greenhouse Cabinet Conversion

Transform an Ivar cabinet into a controlled environment for houseplants by adding glass doors and grow lights.

Install humidity trays and small fans for air circulation to create ideal growing conditions. Create specialized areas for different plant types based on light and humidity needs.

This plant lover’s solution creates perfect growing conditions for rare or sensitive plants while displaying your collection beautifully.

22: Floating Nightstands

Mount smaller Ivar cabinets on either side of your bed as floating nightstands with hidden storage.

The wall mounting saves floor space while providing substantial surface area and concealed storage.

Install small sconces or reading lights and add charging ports for electronics.

These space-saving bedside tables work beautifully in small bedrooms or minimalist design schemes where floor space is premium.

23: Rattan-Detailed Entertainment Center

Update Ivar cabinets with rattan webbing inserts on door panels for a boho-inspired entertainment center.

The natural material adds texture and tropical warmth to the simple pine structure. Add wooden legs for elevation and cord management solutions for electronics.

This trend-forward hack incorporates natural materials and craftsmanship details that elevate basic storage to designer status.

24: Craft Supply Organization System

Configure Ivar shelving specifically for craft supply storage with customized compartments for different materials.

Install pegboards on the sides for hanging tools and add labeled bins for small items. Create a fold-down work surface that tucks away when not needed.

This specialized storage solution helps creative hobbyists maintain organization while making supplies visible and accessible for inspiration.

25: Outdoor Kitchen Storage

Treat Ivar shelving with weatherproof sealant to create durable outdoor kitchen storage for patios or covered porches.

Add hooks for grilling tools and specialized compartments for outdoor dining essentials. Install a butcher block top for additional workspace when entertaining.

This outdoor organization solution withstands the elements while keeping cooking equipment organized and accessible for outdoor gatherings.

26: Toy Rotation System

Create a comprehensive toy management system using Ivar components with designated zones for active toys, rotation storage, and display shelves for special collections.

Use color-coded bins for easy organization. Include an accessible donation box for outgrown items.

This thoughtful organization system prevents toy overwhelm while extending the novelty of existing toys through strategic rotation and presentation.

27: Modern Arch Bookcase

Transform standard rectangular Ivar shelving by cutting curved tops to create an arched silhouette.

This architectural detail instantly elevates basic shelving to designer status with minimal effort. Paint the entire unit in a statement color that contrasts with your walls.

This contemporary update references current design trends while providing practical storage that stands out as a deliberate style choice.

28: Home Coffee Station

Convert Ivar shelving into a complete coffee bar with designated areas for your machine, beans, mugs, and accessories.

Install a pull-out surface for preparation and hooks for hanging mugs. Add specialized storage for different coffee varieties and equipment.

This beverage station centralizes your morning routine while showcasing beautiful coffee-related items as part of your décor.

29: Fluted Panel Room Divider

Create a sophisticated room divider by attaching vertical wood fluting to the back of Ivar shelving.

This architectural detail adds texture and visual interest while partially obscuring the view between spaces.

Paint the entire piece in a color that complements both adjoining spaces.

This functional divider defines separate areas in open floor plans while providing storage accessible from both sides.

30: Kallax-Style Cube Transformation

Modify Ivar shelving with additional vertical and horizontal dividers to create a grid of equal cubes similar to the popular Kallax units.

This hack combines the sturdiness of Ivar with the versatile display options of cubic storage.

Add backing board for stability and paint in your desired finish. This customized storage solution provides perfect compartments for record collections, books, or decorative bins.

31: Home Gym Equipment Organizer

Configure Ivar shelving specifically for fitness equipment with specialized storage for different workout gear.

Install hooks for resistance bands, compartments for weights, and racks for yoga mats.

Add a fold-down surface that functions as a device stand for following workout videos.

This organized approach to fitness equipment encourages regular exercise by keeping gear accessible and orderly.

Conclusion

Your Ivar hack can combine multiple ideas from this list or inspire entirely new concepts.

Start with a clear vision of your needs, then customize these versatile pine units to create functional, beautiful furniture uniquely yours.