IKEA is known for affordable, functional furniture — but let’s face it, its mass-market look isn’t always what you want your guests to notice first. The good news? With the right styling choices, even the most recognizable IKEA pieces can be elevated into something that looks custom, thoughtful, and expensive. Here’s how to take budget-friendly IKEA items and give them a high-end, designer feel.
1. Upgrade the Hardware
Swapping out standard knobs and handles is one of the easiest ways to make IKEA furniture look custom. Trade the basic chrome or plastic pulls for brass, matte black, or stone hardware. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference, especially on cabinets, dressers, and nightstands.
- Tip: Look for artisan hardware on Etsy or specialty hardware shops — they elevate even basic pieces like the IKEA Malm or Besta.
2. Use Paint for a Custom Color
Most IKEA pieces come in white, black, or a few standard wood tones. Painting furniture in a deep navy, soft taupe, or saturated green immediately makes it feel intentional and unique. Use high-quality primer and furniture paint for a smooth finish — or go bold with a color-block or two-tone design.
Don’t be afraid to add texture either. Matte finishes, lime wash effects, or even chalk paint can give a more expensive, lived-in look.
3. Add Molding or Trim
Adding trim or crown molding to flat-pack IKEA items can transform them into something that looks built-in. This trick works especially well on PAX wardrobes, Kallax shelves, and Besta units. Install baseboards, trim pieces, or shaker-style panels to add architectural character that screams custom carpentry — not DIY.
4. Style Like a Designer
Even the most minimal furniture can look upscale when styled thoughtfully. Layer in natural textures like linen, stone, and wood. Stick to a neutral palette and add contrast with black or deep-toned accents. Don’t overcrowd open shelving — leave space for curated items like ceramics, books, and greenery.
If you’re working with open storage or shelving units, anchor them with more substantial pieces. Consider pairing IKEA storage with solid wood designer cabinets or sideboards to elevate the space and create balance.
5. Replace IKEA Legs with Custom Ones
Furniture legs can drastically alter the overall appearance of a piece. Many IKEA sofas, cabinets, and beds have removable legs — and replacing them with custom tapered, brass, or mid-century style legs gives an instant upgrade. Several companies specialize in legs made specifically to fit IKEA models.
6. Combine IKEA Pieces for a Built-In Look
Combining multiple IKEA units and finishing them with trim, filler panels, or a countertop is a favorite trick among designers. Think wall-to-wall bookcases using the Billy series or a faux built-in sideboard using Besta cabinets. These setups can mimic the look of custom millwork — without the custom price tag.
7. Add Texture with Natural Materials
IKEA items are often sleek and flat — great for modern minimalism, but they can look cold. Adding texture through styling is key. Think rattan baskets, wool throws, linen cushions, or leather drawer pulls. These tactile elements introduce warmth and richness, making even a $50 table feel elevated.
8. Light It Well
Lighting can completely change how furniture reads. Pair your IKEA pieces with designer floor lamps, statement pendants, or wall sconces to draw attention upward and away from any low-cost elements. Use warm bulbs (2700K–3000K) to create a cozy, upscale ambiance.
9. Mix High with Low
One of the oldest interior design tricks is mixing IKEA basics with a few high-end pieces. Combine a basic IKEA desk with a premium designer chair. Set an affordable bed frame against a luxurious headboard. Or pair an IKEA coffee table with a statement rug or antique mirror. It’s all about balance — not everything has to be expensive to look expensive.
10. Make Use of Custom Fronts
If you want the biggest transformation, consider companies that make custom doors and panels for IKEA systems (like Semihandmade or Reform). These allow you to keep the budget base but completely change the exterior finish — think walnut veneer, matte lacquer, or fluted fronts. The result? Furniture that looks like it came from a designer showroom.
Final Thought
You don’t need a luxury budget to create a refined, thoughtful home. IKEA offers an affordable foundation — and with a few clever upgrades, it can look just as elegant as custom-built furniture. Whether you’re restyling a living room or designing a home office, blending smart styling with quality pieces like solid wood cabinets can completely shift the atmosphere of a room. All it takes is a little creativity — and an eye for detail.