Making Ikea Cabinets Look Custom

Making Ikea Cabinets Look Custom

Are you looking to renovate your kitchen or bathroom but don’t have the budget for custom cabinets? Ikea cabinets are a popular and affordable option, but they can look generic and plain. In this article, I will share my personal experience and tips on how to make Ikea cabinets look custom.

My Experience

When I first moved into my apartment, the kitchen had outdated and worn cabinets. I wanted to renovate the space, but as a renter, I couldn’t invest in custom cabinets. After researching options, I decided to go with Ikea cabinets. They were affordable and easy to install, but they looked plain and lacked personality. I knew I had to make some changes to make them look custom.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Pick the Right Style

Before you start customizing your Ikea cabinets, choose a style that fits your aesthetic. Ikea offers a wide range of cabinet styles, from modern to traditional. Pick a style that complements your kitchen or bathroom design.

2. Add Crown Molding

Crown molding can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your cabinets. You can purchase pre-made crown molding at Ikea or a hardware store and easily install it yourself.

3. Install Custom Handles

Swapping out the standard Ikea handles for custom ones can instantly upgrade the look of your cabinets. There are endless options for handles, from sleek and modern to vintage and ornate.

4. Paint or Stain

If you’re looking for a more drastic change, consider painting or staining your Ikea cabinets. This is a DIY project that requires some prep work, but the result can be stunning. Just make sure to use the appropriate paint or stain for your cabinets’ material.

5. Add Glass Inserts

Glass inserts can make your cabinets look more high-end and custom. Ikea offers glass inserts that are easy to install, or you can purchase custom ones from a glass company.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

1. Install under-cabinet lighting to highlight your custom cabinets. 2. Use a mix of open shelving and closed cabinets for a unique look. 3. Add decorative molding to the bottom of your cabinets for a furniture-like feel. 4. Install a plate rack to display your favorite dishes. 5. Paint the interior of your cabinets a different color for a fun pop of color. 6. Add a chalkboard or corkboard panel to the inside of a cabinet door for a functional touch. 7. Install pull-out drawers for easy access to pots and pans. 8. Add decorative feet or legs to the bottom of your cabinets. 9. Use wallpaper or contact paper to line the inside of your cabinets for a fun pattern. 10. Mix and match cabinet styles for a customized look.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Ikea cabinets are affordable and easy to install. They come in a variety of styles and colors, making it easy to find one that fits your aesthetic. With some customization, they can look high-end and custom.

Cons: Ikea cabinets are made of particleboard, which is not as durable or long-lasting as solid wood cabinets. They also lack the customization options of custom cabinets, such as unique sizes and shapes.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

I was impressed with the quality and affordability of Ikea cabinets. With some customizations, they can look just as good as custom cabinets. I recommend painting or staining them and adding custom handles and crown molding for a high-end look. I also suggest mixing and matching cabinet styles and incorporating open shelving for a unique and customized feel.

Question and Answer

Q: Can I install Ikea cabinets myself?
A: Yes, Ikea cabinets are designed for easy installation and come with detailed instructions.

Q: How long do Ikea cabinets last?
A: Ikea cabinets are made of particleboard and have a lifespan of around 15-20 years.

FAQs

Q: Can I purchase custom-sized Ikea cabinets?
A: No, Ikea cabinets come in standard sizes and cannot be custom-sized.

Q: Can I purchase pre-made Ikea cabinet fronts?
A: Yes, Ikea offers a variety of pre-made cabinet fronts that can be easily installed on your existing cabinets.

Q: Can I purchase Ikea cabinets online?
A: Yes, Ikea offers online ordering and delivery for their cabinets.