Small apartment living doesn’t mean sacrificing style or storage. Trust me, after 20 years of helping clients make tiny spaces feel like home, I’ve learned that IKEA is the MVP of budget-friendly, space-saving solutions. And with a little creativity (and maybe a drill or some Velcro), their products can be transformed into something that looks custom-made for your chic little nest.
1. Turn the KALLAX Shelf into a Room Divider
Need to separate your “bedroom” from your “living room”? (Because let’s face it, they’re probably sharing a zip code.) A KALLAX unit not only divides the space but doubles as storage for books, baskets, and your collection of half-read novels.
2. The BEKVÄM Spice Rack as a Bathroom Shelf
This little wooden spice rack isn’t just for your paprika. Mount it on the wall in your bathroom for extra space to store skincare products, tiny towels, or even a little plant.
3. BILLY Bookcase Built-Ins
Want that custom, built-in look? Hack a few BILLY bookcases by anchoring them to the wall and adding trim and molding. Bonus: Paint them to match your walls for a seamless look that screams “I hired a designer” without the price tag.
4. RASKOG Cart as a Rolling Mini-Bar
I love a good rolling cart hack. The RASKOG cart makes the perfect mobile mini-bar for entertaining. Stock it with cocktail supplies, glassware, and a small ice bucket. Roll it away when you’re done—instant space saver!
5. LACK Shelves for Vertical Storage
When floor space is tight, think vertical. Install a few LACK shelves to display decor, plants, or even your collection of funky coffee mugs. Pro tip: stagger them for visual interest.
6. TROFAST Storage for Under the Bed
Under-bed storage is prime real estate. Use TROFAST bins for storing seasonal clothes, shoes, or linens. Label them for easy access because no one wants to dig for their winter sweater in July.
7. HEMNES Dresser as a Kitchen Island
Short on counter space? Use a HEMNES dresser as a makeshift kitchen island. Add a butcher block top, and you’ve got extra prep space and storage for pots, pans, and utensils.
8. Use SKÅDIS Pegboard for Entryway Organization
Tiny entryway? No problem. Install a SKÅDIS pegboard to hang keys, bags, or even small shelves for sunglasses and mail. Functional and cute.
9. NORBERG Wall-Mounted Table as a Desk
Need a workspace but don’t have room for a desk? The NORBERG table mounts to the wall and folds down when you’re done. Perfect for work-from-home days.
10. KNAGGLIG Crates as Stackable Storage
These wooden crates are a storage dream. Stack them to create open shelves or use them under a console table for hidden storage. Bonus: they’re super affordable.
11. GRUNDTAL Rails for Kitchen Utensils
No drawer space? Install GRUNDTAL rails on the wall to hang your utensils, pots, or even herbs. Adds a bit of industrial charm to your kitchen.
12. NORDEN Gateleg Table for Dining and Storage
This folding table is a game-changer. Use it as a dining table when guests are over, and fold it down to save space. The built-in drawers are perfect for storing napkins and cutlery.
13. Use MOSSLANDA Ledges for Displays
MOSSLANDA picture ledges aren’t just for art. Use them to display books, spices, or even a mini indoor herb garden. They’re sleek and take up almost no space.
14. MALM Dresser as a Nightstand
Double-duty furniture is key in small spaces. Use a MALM dresser as a nightstand to store clothes and keep your bedside essentials handy.
15. IKEA Ribba Frames as Floating Shelves
A sneaky hack: flip the Ribba frame ledges upside down and mount them as floating shelves. Great for holding small decor or picture frames without taking up table space.
Living in a small apartment doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or function. With a little creativity (and maybe some DIY spirit), these IKEA hacks can turn your compact space into a Pinterest-worthy haven.