Creating a built-in look with Ikea cabinets offers a cost-effective and customizable solution to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your space.
Whether you’re looking to integrate Ikea cabinets seamlessly into existing architecture or achieve a tailored, high-end appearance, this guide provides practical steps on how to make ikea cabinets look built in. We’ll explore techniques such as adding trim, crown molding, and baseboards to give cabinets a custom-built appearance.
Additionally, we’ll discuss strategic placement and installation tips to blend cabinets with surrounding walls and furniture. Whether you’re renovating a kitchen, living room, or home office, mastering these methods allows you to maximize storage and style while maintaining affordability and flexibility with Ikea’s versatile cabinet systems. Transforming Ikea cabinets into a built-in feature elevates the overall look of your space, offering a sophisticated and cohesive design aesthetic tailored to your preferences.
The Appeal of Custom Built-ins
Custom built-ins are highly sought after for their seamless integration and tailored fit within a space. Unlike standalone furniture, built-ins are designed to complement the existing architecture, creating a cohesive and unified look.
They maximize storage by utilizing every available inch, which is particularly beneficial in small or awkwardly shaped rooms. Additionally, custom built-ins can be personalized to meet specific needs and preferences, whether it’s incorporating glass-fronted cabinets for display or creating hidden compartments for a clutter-free environment.
The permanence and craftsmanship of built-ins add value to a property, increasing both its functionality and aesthetic appeal.
As a result, many homeowners and designers favour custom built-ins for their ability to provide a polished, high-end appearance that standard furniture simply cannot match.
Assessing Your Space and Needs
Before embarking on the journey to create a built-in look with Ikea cabinets, it is crucial to assess your space and identify your specific needs. Begin by measuring the dimensions of the area where you intend to install the cabinets.
This ensures that the cabinets you choose will fit perfectly and utilize the space efficiently. Consider the architectural features and existing decor of the room to determine how the cabinets can be integrated seamlessly.
Think about your storage requirements and what you plan to store in the cabinets—do you need drawer space, shelves, or a combination of both? Identify whether you want the built-in to serve multiple functions, such as incorporating a desk area or an entertainment center.
By thoroughly evaluating your space and understanding your needs, you can make informed decisions that will guide the selection and customization of Ikea cabinets, ensuring that the final result is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
10 Methods How to Make Ikea Cabinets Look Built in
01.Planning and Measuring
Begin by carefully measuring the dimensions of your space and assessing how IKEA cabinets can best fit into the available area. Take accurate measurements of the wall length, ceiling height, and floor space where the cabinets will be installed.
Use graph paper or a digital design tool to create a layout that includes the desired configuration of cabinets, ensuring adequate clearance around doors, windows, and other architectural features.
02.Choosing Cabinet Styles and Finishes
Select IKEA cabinet styles and finishes that complement your interior design scheme and desired built-in look.
IKEA offers a range of cabinet door styles, from sleek modern designs to traditional panel fronts, along with various finishes such as matte, glossy, or wood veneer. Consider the overall aesthetic you want to achieve, whether it’s contemporary, classic, or rustic, and choose cabinets that align with your vision.
03.Customizing Cabinet Sizes
Customize IKEA cabinets to fit precisely within your space by adjusting standard sizes or using IKEA’s custom cabinet options.
IKEA cabinets are modular, allowing you to mix and match different sizes and configurations to create a seamless built-in appearance. Use IKEA’s online planning tools or consult with an IKEA kitchen specialist to tailor cabinet dimensions to fit specific areas, such as alcoves or corners, maximizing storage and visual impact.
04.Building a Frame Around Cabinets
To achieve a built-in look, consider framing IKEA cabinets with additional trim, molding, or panels that blend seamlessly with your existing decor.
Use solid wood, MDF (medium-density fiberboard), or decorative trim pieces to create a frame around the perimeter of the cabinets. Attach the frame to the walls and ceiling using nails, screws, or construction adhesive, ensuring it aligns flush with the fronts of the cabinets for a cohesive built-in appearance.
05.Installing Base and Crown Molding
Enhance the built-in look of IKEA cabinets by installing base molding along the bottom and crown molding at the top of the cabinets.
Base molding covers gaps between the cabinets and the floor, creating a seamless transition and adding a finished touch. Crown molding adds architectural detail to the upper edges of the cabinets, concealing any gaps between the cabinets and ceiling. Use a miter saw to cut molding at precise angles for tight, professional-looking corners.
06.Creating a Toe Kick
Customize IKEA cabinets with a built-in toe kick to elevate their appearance and mimic traditional built-in cabinetry. A toe kick is a recessed space at the base of cabinets that allows room for your feet when standing close to the cabinets.
Use matching baseboard or custom panels to create a continuous toe kick across the bottom of the cabinets. Secure the toe kick in place using brackets or adhesive, ensuring it aligns flush with the cabinet fronts for a seamless finish.
07.Adding Decorative Panels
Conceal the sides and exposed edges of IKEA cabinets by adding decorative panels or end panels that match the cabinet doors and drawer fronts. IKEA offers matching panels in various sizes and finishes, allowing you to cover visible sides and create a cohesive built-in appearance. Attach panels using screws or adhesive, ensuring they align flush with the cabinet edges and frame for a seamless integration into your overall design.
08.Installing Integrated Lighting
Enhance the built-in look of IKEA cabinets with integrated lighting solutions that highlight the cabinetry and add ambiance to your space. Consider installing LED strip lights or puck lights underneath cabinets to illuminate countertops and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Choose lighting options that seamlessly integrate with IKEA’s cabinet systems, ensuring they enhance functionality and aesthetics while maintaining a cohesive built-in look.
09.Creating Custom Shelving and Storage
Customize IKEA cabinets with internal organizers, custom shelves, or storage solutions to maximize functionality and create a tailored built-in appearance.
IKEA offers a range of interior fittings such as pull-out drawers, adjustable shelves, and dividers that can be configured to suit your organizational needs. Incorporate custom inserts or dividers to optimize storage space and keep items neatly organized within the cabinets, enhancing both practicality and visual appeal.
10.Finishing Touches and Integration
Complete the built-in look of IKEA cabinets by adding finishing touches that tie the entire design together. Install matching hardware such as handles, knobs, or pulls that complement the cabinet style and finish.
Consider integrating appliances, such as dishwashers or refrigerators, with custom panels that blend seamlessly with the surrounding cabinetry. Step back to assess the overall appearance, making any final adjustments to ensure a cohesive and polished built-in look throughout your space.
Things to Consider When Working with IKEA Cabinets
Space and Layout
Consider the available space and desired layout when working with IKEA cabinets. Proper planning is essential to ensure that the cabinets not only fit perfectly but also enhance the functionality and flow of the room. Measure the space accurately and think about how the cabinets will interact with existing architectural elements like windows, doors, and other fixtures.
Budget
Budget is a crucial factor when planning any home improvement project, including integrating IKEA cabinets. Determine a budget that includes the cost of cabinets, additional materials such as trim and molding, and any tools required for installation. Account for potential expenses related to professional help if needed, such as hiring a carpenter or electrician for specialized tasks.
Style Consistency
Ensure style consistency when selecting and customizing IKEA cabinets. The cabinets should complement your overall interior design to achieve a cohesive and harmonious look. Consider the color scheme, materials, and finishes of your existing decor and choose cabinet styles that align with your aesthetic vision, whether it’s modern, traditional, or eclectic.
Functionality and Storage Needs
Assess your functionality and storage needs when working with IKEA cabinets. Think about the types of items you plan to store and the ease of access you require. Consider adding internal organizers, pull-out drawers, and adjustable shelves to maximize storage efficiency and cater to your specific organizational preferences.
You can check it out to Make a Built in Entertainment Center
Conclusion
In conclusion, transforming IKEA cabinets into a built-in feature requires careful planning, customization, and attention to detail.
By following these detailed methods and incorporating design elements such as framing, molding, custom panels, and integrated lighting, you can achieve a seamless integration of modular IKEA cabinets into your home. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to make ikea cabinets look built in!
