How to Transform an IKEA Shelf into a Kitchen Island

British lifestyle blogger Jean Lu Meredith loves customizing IKEA furniture. One of her most successful finds was a kitchen island made from the Kallax shelf. For this transformation, she enlisted her husband. They set themselves several challenging yet interesting tasks: Make the island as compact and functional as possible, expanding the work area without cluttering the kitchen space. Give it mobility so that the island can be moved during cleaning or guest visits. Find the optimal height to make cooking and relaxing at the island comfortable during parties. Stay within a budget of up to £100.Step 1: Choose the base and make a shopping list

For the base, Jean Lu Meredith chose a simple square Kallax shelf. Other components were selected to match it:

• white Kallax shelf,
• white door insert Kallax (x2),
• set of four wheels RILL,
• 40 cm railing KUNGSFORS (x2),
• cutting board LÄMPLIG (x2),
• wood treatment oil SIGG.

Step 2: Assemble the cabinet and attach the wheels

Note that the RILL wheel set does not include screws, so you should plan to buy them in advance. You will need 16 screws with a diameter of 4 mm.

Step 3: Attach the railings

Attach KUNGSFORS railings on both sides of the cabinet. You can hang towels and kitchen utensils conveniently on them. Experiment with the height before installation to find your optimal setting.
Step 4: Assemble the countertop

Instead of a solid countertop, use two lightweight and durable cutting boards LÄMPLIG. Don't forget to treat the wood with special oil and refresh the layer every few months.

If one of the parts of the improvised countertop fails, it can easily be replaced with a new one.

Step 5: Insert the drawers

To add storage space, which is often lacking on small kitchens, Jean Lu Meredith inserted drawer units with doors into two of the cabinet openings. This is where you can store pots, pans, and household appliances. As for your favorite dishes, leave two open shelves to display them.

You can insert cabinets with doors or slide-out drawers – your choice.This island can be used not only as an additional work surface but also as a bar counter during parties.