27 Genius IKEA IVAR Room Divider Hacks to Transform Your Space in 2025

Looking for an affordable, stylish way to divide your space? IKEA’s versatile IVAR system offers endless possibilities for creating functional room dividers that won’t break the bank.

This simple pine shelving unit transforms easily with a few tweaks and customizations to fit any aesthetic from minimalist to bohemian.

With these 27 clever IVAR hacks, you’ll discover how to create beautiful room dividers that add storage, style, and separation to your open-concept spaces.

1: Bi-Fold Screen Divider

Transform two IVAR side units into a folding screen by connecting them with cabinet hinges. This simple modification creates a movable divider you can reposition as needed.

Paint both sides different colors to match separate room functions. When fully extended, you’ll create distinct zones while maintaining the option to fold it away when not needed.

Add hooks to one side for hanging lightweight items like scarves or jewelry.

2: Macramé Panel Inserts

Replace the solid pine back panels with eye-catching macramé inserts. Cut the standard IVAR panels to use as frames and stretch large macramé pieces across them.

The woven texture allows light to filter through while still defining separate spaces. This boho-inspired hack works especially well in apartments with limited natural light sources.

Change the macramé seasonally for a refreshed look without major renovations.

3: Glass Panel Bookcase Divider

Create a see-through divider by replacing wooden shelves with custom-cut glass panels. This modification maintains visual continuity between spaces while still providing separation.

Use the IVAR side units as the structure and install glass shelves for a more open, airy feel. Display decorative items on both sides to serve different room functions.

The transparent surfaces allow light to flow through, preventing either space from feeling dark or closed off.

4: Plant-Filled Room Screen

Turn your IVAR unit into a living divider by arranging plants of varying heights on each shelf. Choose containers that complement your décor style for a cohesive look.

Add grow lights underneath upper shelves to ensure all plants receive adequate light. This green barrier improves air quality while creating a natural visual break between areas.

Select trailing plants for upper shelves to create a cascading effect that softens the divider’s rigid lines.

5: Slatted Wood Screen Insert

Replace standard IVAR shelves with horizontal wooden slats spaced evenly apart. This architectural detail creates partial privacy while allowing light and air circulation.

Stain the slats a contrasting color from the frame for added visual interest. The semi-transparent effect defines zones without completely blocking sight lines between spaces.

This modification works particularly well in studios where you want to separate sleeping areas from living spaces.

6: Sliding Door Room Divider

Install sliding track hardware to the top of your IVAR unit and add custom doors that slide across the shelving. Choose materials like frosted plexiglass or lightweight wood panels.

The sliding mechanism allows you to reveal or conceal sections as needed. This solution provides maximum flexibility for changing privacy needs throughout the day.

Paint the doors with chalkboard paint for added functionality in home office or kitchen spaces.

7: Fabric Panel Inserts

Create soft division with fabric panels stretched across IVAR frames. Select textiles that complement your décor, from neutral linens to bold patterns.

Secure fabric to the back of each unit using a staple gun for a clean finish. Swap out fabrics seasonally or when you need a décor refresh without replacing the entire divider.

This sound-dampening solution helps minimize noise transfer between divided spaces.

8: Rotating Shelf Divider

Connect multiple IVAR units with pivoting hardware to create an accordion-style divider.

Each section can rotate independently, allowing you to adjust the angle for different space configurations.

Add castors to the bottom for easy movement around your space. This dynamic solution adapts to changing needs, from straight-line division to zigzag patterns.

The flexibility makes it perfect for renters who need adaptable solutions for different apartments.

9: Home Office Privacy Screen

Transform your IVAR unit into a dedicated workspace divider with sound-absorbing panels. Cover the back with cork or felt to create an effective barrier for video calls.

Add a fold-down desktop to one section for a space-saving workstation. Install wire management solutions through the shelving to keep technology cords organized.

This practical hack creates a professional background for video meetings while separating work life from home life.

10: Basket-Filled Display Divider

Maximize storage with a combination of IVAR shelving and coordinating baskets. Select baskets that fit perfectly within the IVAR dimensions for a clean, organized look.

Alternate basket placement on shelves to create visual interest from both sides.

This approach provides hidden storage for items you don’t want visible while still maintaining an open feel.

Label baskets discreetly to maintain organization without compromising aesthetic appeal.

11: Ribbed Panel Upgrade

Add architectural interest by attaching vertical wooden dowels or thin strips to the IVAR sides. Space them evenly for a ribbed effect that adds texture and visual complexity.

Paint the entire unit, including the ribbed details, in a single color for sophisticated impact. This three-dimensional effect creates shadow play throughout the day as light changes.

This modification elevates the basic pine construction to a high-end designer look.

12: Kid-Friendly Activity Divider

Create a double-duty play space and room divider with activity panels attached to your IVAR unit. Install a chalkboard panel on one side and a magnetic board on another.

Add clear plastic bins on lower shelves to store toys within kids’ reach. Position the divider to separate play areas from adult spaces while keeping children visible.

The dual functionality maximizes functionality in family homes with limited square footage.

13: Cane Webbing Inserts

Modernize your IVAR with trendy cane webbing panels. Remove the solid backs and replace with wooden frames filled with natural cane material.

The open weave pattern maintains airflow between spaces while adding texture. This natural element brings warmth and organic appeal to contemporary spaces.

The semi-transparent nature of cane offers the perfect balance between division and connection.

14: Curved Corner Divider

Create an unusual curved divider by connecting multiple narrow IVAR units with flexible hinges. Position them in a gentle arc to soften the transition between spaces.

Add adjustable shelves at varying heights to create visual rhythm. This unexpected shape adds architectural interest while functioning effectively as a space separator.

The curved formation works particularly well in open loft spaces that need definition without harsh straight lines.

15: LED-Integrated Display Divider

Install battery-powered LED strip lighting along IVAR shelves for a dramatic divider that doubles as display lighting. Position strips underneath shelves to illuminate items below.

Use warm white lights for a cozy atmosphere or colored LEDs for a more playful vibe. The illumination transforms the practical divider into an eye-catching focal point after dark.

This lighting solution particularly enhances collections or artwork displayed on your divider shelves.

16: Painted Gradient Effect

Transform basic pine IVAR units with an Ombre paint treatment that transitions from dark at the bottom to light at the top.

This visual trick draws the eye upward, making ceilings appear higher.

Use colors that complement both spaces the divider separates. The gradient effect softens the divider’s presence while adding sophisticated color to your space.

This painting technique requires minimal artistic skill but delivers maximum impact.

17: Mixed Media Cabinet Front

Upgrade your IVAR divider with different door and drawer front materials. Combine wood, metal, rattan, and painted surfaces for a collected, custom look.

Add leather pulls or brass handles to elevate the basic pine construction. Each side can feature different materials to coordinate with the spaces they face.

This customization transforms the affordable IVAR into a bespoke piece that looks high-end.

18: Hanging Plant Divider

Create a suspended green divider using IVAR shelves mounted from the ceiling. Attach strong cables or chains at each corner to safely suspend the unit.

Position potted plants along each shelf, allowing trailing varieties to cascade downward. This floating division creates separation without taking up valuable floor space.

The overhead installation creates a dramatic canopy effect while keeping foot traffic areas clear.

19: Reading Nook Partition

Design a cozy reading retreat by using IVAR units to carve out a dedicated space.

Position shelving to create three sides of a reading nook with open shelving facing outward.

Line the interior with comfortable cushions and pillows for seating. Add battery-operated lighting to the upper shelves for perfect reading illumination.

This retreat-like space provides both storage and a private sanctuary within larger rooms.

20: Pegboard Panel Inserts

Replace standard IVAR back panels with painted pegboard for endless customization options.

The perforated surface accepts hooks, small shelves, and various organizational accessories.

Paint the pegboard in a bold color to create visual impact from both sides. Reconfigure the arrangement of hooks and accessories as your storage needs change.

This adaptable system works particularly well for craft rooms or home offices requiring flexible organization.

21: Wine Storage Divider

Transform your IVAR into a sophisticated wine storage solution that doubles as a room divider.

Install X-shaped inserts designed specifically for holding wine bottles horizontally.

Alternate wine storage cubbies with regular shelving for glassware display. Position in kitchen-adjacent spaces to create separate dining zones while keeping beverages accessible.

Add a countertop section at bar height for a convenient serving area during gatherings.

22: Louvered Panel Screen

Create a plantation shutter effect by installing angled wooden slats across IVAR frames. Position the louvers to allow light while blocking direct sightlines between spaces.

Paint the entire unit white for a classic coastal aesthetic or dark green for a more dramatic effect. The adjustable slats can be repositioned to control light and privacy levels.

This architectural detail adds sophisticated texture while performing effectively as a room divider.

23: Integrated Pet Home

Design a divider that doubles as a comfortable pet retreat by modifying lower IVAR cabinets. Cut arched doorways into cabinet sides for cat or small dog access.

Add comfortable bedding inside the enclosed cabinet spaces. Upper shelving remains functional for human storage and display needs.

This dual-purpose solution saves space while giving pets their own territory within your home.

24: Art Display Divider

Transform your IVAR into a gallery-style divider that showcases artwork on both sides. Install picture ledges at varying heights to display framed art and photographs.

Add adjustable gallery lighting to highlight your collection. This approach turns a functional divider into a curated art display that enhances both divided spaces.

Rotate artwork seasonally to refresh your space without structural changes.

25: Rolling Basket Storage

Add mobility to your IVAR divider by installing quality castors on the bottom. This simple addition allows you to reconfigure your space instantly for different activities.

Add rope or fabric storage baskets to shelves for a softer look. The movable divider works perfectly for apartments where flexibility matters more than permanent solutions.

Include locking mechanisms on the castors to prevent unwanted movement when positioned.

26: Geometric Pattern Overlay

Add architectural interest with a geometric pattern overlay attached to the IVAR frame. Cut thin wood strips and arrange them in diamond, hexagon, or triangle patterns.

Paint the geometric overlay in a contrasting color to make it pop. This decorative element transforms the simple pine construction into a designer-worthy piece.

The geometric pattern creates interesting shadow play as light filters through the divider.

27: Minibar Room Divider

Convert your IVAR shelving into an entertainment-ready divider with dedicated sections for barware. Install a wine rack insert and glass holders on the upper shelves.

Add a fold-down panel that functions as a serving surface when needed. Position glassware and bottles for easy access from the entertaining side.

This functional divider creates separation while enhancing your ability to host gatherings in small spaces.

Conclusion

With these creative IVAR hacks, you can define your space beautifully while adding functionality and style—all without major renovations or budget-breaking expenses.

Let your imagination guide your next DIY room divider project!