How to Transform a Cheap IKEA Shelf into a Luxury Interior

Creating custom furniture didn't fit into the budget of the homeowner in this apartment, Lora, so she decided to make it herself. We provide a step-by-step guide that you can follow to do the same.

Step 1. Assemble the Shelves

First, assemble all three shelves (two IKEA Billy shelves 40 cm wide and one 80 cm wide). If you have high ceilings, you can use additional top shelves (40 cm and 80 cm) to achieve the desired height.

Step 2. Determine the Size

Plan ahead where the shelves will be placed. If you want the wall shelf to look "antique," add massiveness and make it visually larger by leaving 13-centimeter gaps between shelves. Don't forget to leave the same distance from the wall on the sides.

The box is needed to make the structure symmetrical. Attach a wooden box 13 cm wide (match its height and depth to the shelf to make it an extension of the shelf). The gaps formed will later be covered with decorative panels.

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Step 3. Secure the Shelves to the Wall

Install wooden strips measuring 5x10 cm on the wall. If you need to level the wall, use thin shims between the furniture and the wall. Attach the shelves to the strips using small L-shaped brackets (shown below on the photo). If you leave space between shelves, the brackets can be attached to both sides of the shelf.

Step 4. Reinforce the Structure

To securely install the shelf structure, reinforce it from the top with a rectangular box that will serve as the top of the cabinet. Determine in advance where the rail attachments for the sliding ladder will be placed and install them on the wooden box. Cover the box with wooden panels.

Step 5. "Integrate" the Wall Shelf with Decorative Elements

To create the effect of built-in furniture, place a ceiling molding on top of the cabinet that matches the one used throughout the room, and repeat the floor molding at the bottom. Try to use as similar models as possible or assemble what you need from several pieces, like the author of the guide.

Thanks to the fact that the moldings on top and bottom repeat those located around the room perimeter, the cabinet appears as a 'continuation' of the wall.

Step 6. Final Touches

Once the entire structure is securely fastened, hide the 13-centimeter gaps between shelves behind decorative panels. These can be attached with a glue gun. Fill all cracks and remaining holes with sealant. All that's left is to paint the wall shelf and hang the ladder!

Step 7. Plan the Interior

To give the shelf a finished look, fill all unused shelves with decorative items. Finally, there's a place for everything!

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