ᐅ How can I make IKEA Platsa units look attractive as TV furniture?

Created on: 3 Dec 2015 19:32
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LELUMI
Hello everyone, I am planning to use my IKEA Platsa as a TV unit but want to make it more attractive and functional. Since the Platsa series is quite flexible but often looks rather plain, I’m interested in how to enhance the piece visually without having to fully customize it. Specifically, what design options are there, for example, through color accents, lighting, additional elements, or accessories? And how can the furniture be tastefully adapted to a modern living room without it looking like a standard IKEA shelving unit? I look forward to your tips and ideas!
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LELUMI
4 Dec 2015 07:44
Thank you for the detailed response, deoke!

My TV is 55 inches, and the planned width is about 2 meters (6.5 feet), with the depth ideally no more than 40 cm (16 inches) to avoid overwhelming the room. Storage is important since I want to accommodate some media devices, DVDs, and decorations as well.

The idea of using LEDs and films sounds interesting, especially the films, which could enhance the look without requiring too many changes. Regarding the proportions, I will pay special attention to ensuring the furniture supports the large TV size.

Are there any special materials for the back panels that differ from the standard ones at Ikea and that are suitable for use?
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deoke
4 Dec 2015 10:11
LELUMI schrieb:
Are there any special materials for the back panels that differ from the standard Ikea options and that work well?

Yes, the standard Platsa uses simple hardboard panels for the back, which often looks quite plain.

The following alternatives work well:
- Real wood veneer panels, for example in natural oak, which you can cut to size.
- Metal sheets that are magnetic, especially practical for mounting without drilling.
- Acoustic panels can also be used behind the TV as a design feature.

Important: Make sure the back panel materials are not too heavy so the structure remains stable. Additionally, you can install LED strips behind them to create a sense of depth.

If you plan to include power outlets or cable management there, you should consider this early on in your planning.
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MAVERICKKA
4 Dec 2015 12:23
I always find it problematic to rely too much on visual tricks with ready-made furniture like Platsa, instead of focusing fundamentally on functionality. Adding LEDs and veneers doesn’t help much if the furniture ends up having too little storage space or makes operating all devices more difficult.
deoke schrieb:
Storage space is important because I also want to store some media devices, DVDs, and decorations.

What is really your main focus? Is design, technology, storage capacity, or ease of maintenance most important to you? I would advise first thoroughly analyzing your usage requirements before implementing any aesthetic measures.

With Platsa, the flexibility is a strength, but its limits are quickly reached when things get more complex. Consider whether a modular expandable unit or a fully custom piece might make more sense.
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LELUMI
4 Dec 2015 13:35
MAVERICKKA schrieb:
I would suggest first thoroughly analyzing the functional requirements, and only then implementing aesthetic measures.

I completely agree with that, which is why I want to avoid it looking nice but ending up impractical. My main requirement is good organization for technology and media equipment, without any cables sticking out. At the same time, it shouldn't look like just a storage piece but should fit comfortably into the room. So: visually simple, practically smart.

What would your priorities be for a clever design?
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RABLA
4 Dec 2015 14:00
Keep it simple:
- Open compartments for technical equipment with ventilation
- Closed compartments for DVDs and decorations
- Integrated cable entries
- Choose panel colors to match the wall paint
This keeps everything neat and modern.
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Fredlo
4 Dec 2015 15:07
RABLA schrieb:
That keeps everything neat and modern.

👍 Exactly, a clean look really works! And with a few decorative highlights, like stylish vases or small pieces of art, the space becomes a real eye-catcher. You just have to be brave and add some personality!