The Best IKEA Hacks for a Luxury Look in 2025

Turning the BILLY Bookcase into a Custom Built-In Library

The BILLY bookcase has long been a staple in many homes, but recent trends have transformed it into something truly luxurious. By stacking multiple BILLY units from floor to ceiling and adding trim or molding, you can create a built-in library that looks custom-made.

According to a 2024 survey by Apartment Therapy, 68% of homeowners said adding molding to BILLY bookcases made their living rooms feel more upscale. Painting the shelves in sophisticated colors like deep navy or forest green adds an extra layer of richness.

Some DIYers even add brass lighting fixtures above the shelves for a dramatic library vibe. The end result is a wall-to-wall statement piece that rivals high-end cabinetry, but for a fraction of the cost.

This hack offers both style and practical storage, making it a favorite for those looking to upgrade their space without breaking the bank.

Upgrading the MALM Dresser with Cane Webbing and Gold Hardware

The popular MALM dresser can look surprisingly high-end with just a few modifications. By attaching cane webbing to the drawer fronts and swapping out the standard handles for gold or brass pulls, people have achieved a boho-luxe look that’s all over Instagram.

According to a 2025 home décor trend report by Houzz, textured materials like cane are expected to dominate. The natural texture of cane softens the dresser’s clean lines and adds visual interest.

Gold hardware, meanwhile, instantly elevates the overall appearance. This transformation is simple, affordable, and requires only basic tools, making it accessible to even the most novice DIYer.

The result is a dresser that looks far more expensive than it actually is, blending seamlessly into luxury-inspired interiors.

KALLAX Shelving Transformed into a Designer Sideboard

The KALLAX unit is beloved for its versatility, but with a few tweaks, it can masquerade as a designer sideboard. Homeowners have started adding wooden legs, custom doors, and marble contact paper to these shelving units.

A 2024 survey by IKEA Hackers found that 73% of respondents rated the KALLAX hack as the most transformative for living and dining spaces. Elevating the unit off the floor with sleek metal or wooden legs adds instant sophistication.

Adding doors with fluted detailing or rattan inserts hides clutter and mimics expensive cabinetry. Marble-effect adhesive paper on the top surface completes the illusion of luxury.

This hack is particularly popular in open-plan homes, where stylish storage is essential.

Hacking the BESTÅ System for a Floating Media Console

Floating media consoles are a hallmark of modern, upscale living rooms. The BESTÅ system, when wall-mounted and paired with custom doors, creates a sleek, streamlined look.

According to a 2025 report by Home Design Magazine, floating media units are one of the top requested features in luxury new builds. Adding push-to-open hardware and high-gloss or wood-effect doors gives the console a bespoke appearance.

Cable management holes can be drilled in the back for a tidy, wireless look. Some users even install LED strips underneath for an ambient glow.

The floating effect frees up floor space, making rooms feel larger and more open—a key detail in contemporary luxury design.

Customizing PAX Wardrobes for a Boutique Closet Experience

The PAX wardrobe system is famous for its flexibility, but luxury-seekers are taking it to the next level. By installing mirrored panels, velvet-lined drawers, and integrated LED lighting, people create closets that rival high-end boutiques.

According to a 2024 consumer survey by The Spruce, 59% of respondents listed custom closets as a top priority when upgrading their bedrooms. Adding crown molding and painting the exteriors in rich, moody hues gives the wardrobes a bespoke finish.

Velvet drawer inserts and matte gold handles provide that extra touch of glamour. This hack has become especially popular with the rise of influencer-inspired closet tours on social media, where organization meets opulence.

Elevating the LACK Table with Marble and Brass Accents

The LACK side table is one of IKEA’s most affordable products, but clever DIYers are turning it into a showstopper. By adding a slab of marble (or marble-effect adhesive) to the top and replacing the legs with brass ones, the humble table transforms into a chic accent piece.

A 2025 design analysis from Elle Decor noted that marble and brass combinations are still trending for their timeless appeal. The process is straightforward: simply secure the new top using adhesive and screw in the replacement legs.

The finished product looks right at home beside a velvet sofa or in a luxe bedroom. This hack proves that even the simplest IKEA products can be elevated with a bit of creativity.

Transforming the HEMNES Shoe Cabinet into a Statement Entryway Piece

The HEMNES shoe cabinet is valued for its slim profile, but when painted in bold colors and topped with luxurious stone or wood, it becomes a true entryway statement. According to a 2024 real estate staging report, attractive entryways can boost a home’s perceived value by up to 10%.

Adding high-end hardware, such as crystal knobs or brushed brass pulls, further enhances its appeal. Some people also install decorative wallpaper or textured panels on the front for added drama.

The narrow profile makes it ideal for small spaces, while the upgrades ensure that it doesn’t go unnoticed. Guests are often surprised to discover it’s an IKEA hack, as it looks custom-made.

Turning the TARVA Bed Frame into a Designer Platform Bed

Natural wood furniture is very on-trend, but the TARVA bed frame’s simple pine finish can look unfinished. By sanding, staining, and adding an upholstered headboard, you can achieve a designer platform bed look.

A 2025 consumer trend survey by House Beautiful found that 61% of respondents desired upholstered headboards for a touch of luxury. Wrapping the headboard in plush velvet or linen fabric gives it a high-end hotel feel.

Staining the wood in rich walnut or espresso tones adds warmth and sophistication. Adding brass or leather strap details to the headboard is another popular upgrade.

These modifications turn an affordable bed into the centerpiece of a luxurious bedroom.

Revamping the IVAR Cabinet with Paint and Molding

The IVAR cabinet’s raw pine exterior is a blank canvas for creativity. In recent projects, people are transforming it with bold paint colors, decorative trim, and custom knobs.

According to a 2024 IKEA customer poll, the IVAR series is among the top three most-hacked collections. Adding geometric molding or fluted panels to the doors provides architectural interest.

Deep colors like emerald green or charcoal gray, combined with gold or glass knobs, create a luxe look. Some even add legs for height and presence.

This hack is especially popular in dining rooms and home offices, where stylish storage is always in demand.

Upgrading the FROSTA Stool into a Chic Side Table or Plant Stand

The FROSTA stool is simple, stackable, and inexpensive, but it’s being reimagined as everything from side tables to plant stands. By painting the legs in metallic shades and adding a circular glass or marble top, the stool takes on a new life.

According to 2025 design forums, multi-purpose furniture is gaining popularity, especially in urban apartments. Wrapping the legs in leather or rattan adds texture and warmth.

This hack is ideal for those who love to change their décor often, as the stool can be easily relocated. It’s a perfect example of how a little imagination can turn the ordinary into something extraordinary.

Personalizing the RAST Nightstand with Paint, Leather, and Custom Pulls

The RAST nightstand is famously plain, but it’s a favorite for transformation projects. By painting it, adding leather drawer pulls, and using stencils or decals, people are creating nightstands that look unique and expensive.

According to a 2024 DIY trends report, leather accents are in high demand for their tactile appeal. Painting the nightstand in soft neutrals or bold jewel tones makes it fit seamlessly into any luxury bedroom theme.

Swapping the standard knobs for brass or crystal pulls completes the high-end look. This hack is especially popular with renters, as it’s affordable and reversible.

Casting a Spotlight on Lighting: Upgrading the SINNERLIG Pendant Lamp

Lighting is crucial for a luxury feel, and the SINNERLIG pendant lamp, made from woven bamboo, is a canvas for creativity. By spray painting the shade in gold or matte black, or adding inner diffusers for a warmer glow, people create lighting that looks custom and expensive.

A 2025 lighting trends report by Architectural Digest highlights the growing demand for statement lighting in every room. Some DIYers add tassels or fringe to the bottom for a touch of Art Deco glamour.

The lamp’s organic texture also pairs beautifully with other natural materials, adding to the overall aesthetic. This hack demonstrates that luxury isn’t just about what you see—it’s about the atmosphere you create.