ᐅ How do I build a combination unit with open shelves using Ikea BESTA furniture?

Hello everyone,

I am currently planning to build a combination of open shelving together with the Ikea Besta furniture system and have a specific question: What is the best way to create a stable and visually appealing combination using the BESTA elements, focusing mainly on open shelves? It is important to me that the construction is both sturdy and offers flexibility for adjusting the shelves – such as variable shelf heights and different configurations.

I already have some experience with Ikea systems, but I’m unsure how to best approach the assembly with BESTA, especially when it comes to open shelves without doors. What should I consider when selecting the elements? Are there useful additional parts for improving stability? And what about wall mounting, particularly for heavier loads?

I look forward to your practical advice on planning, assembly, and optimizing the open shelving combination with BESTA. Thanks in advance!

The most important thing is to secure the modules to the wall to prevent tipping hazards. Use wall brackets and screws appropriate for the type of wall.

You can equip open shelves with intermediate shelves that snap into the drilled holes. For stability, you should use at least two rows of shelves connected by top panels.

Also, be careful not to place heavy objects in the upper open compartments, as this unnecessarily stresses the system.

To add to the points already mentioned:

- Ikea BESTA units come with standard mounting options that ensure secure wall installation. However, it is recommended to use additional angle brackets for reinforcement, especially if the shelves are used as open modules.
- For a customized design of open shelves, the standardized shelves can be adjusted flexibly in height at 32mm (1 1/4 inch) intervals, which is a common measurement system in the furniture industry and allows for many adjustments.
- To keep the entire construction stable, it is advisable to connect the individual modules with top and bottom panels. This prevents lateral shifting and increases load capacity.
- Regarding load capacity: Manufacturer specifications usually indicate about 30 kg (66 lbs) per shelf with even load distribution, which should be considered for open shelving units.

Finally: The look can be customized by using carcass sides in white or wood décor; for an open character, choosing frame profiles with high stability and narrow borders is recommended.

If you plan to integrate LEDs or other accessories, specially designed clips and rails are available as accessories, further enhancing the system.

Hello Kalaix,

I understand your question well, as the BESTA series is indeed very versatile, and every combination also depends on the room conditions.

FRANCISCOP schrieb:

- For a custom design of the open shelves, the standard-specific shelves can be used flexibly. They can be adjusted in height in 32mm (1.26 inches) increments, which is a common measurement system in the furniture industry and allows many adjustments.

That is an important point. To add to that: if you want to use the open shelves as room dividers or freestanding units, you can equip individual modules with additional stabilizers on the back or place them on feet that provide some height adjustment.

SAWYERR schrieb:

The most important thing is to secure the modules to the wall to prevent tipping hazards.

In doing so, you should carefully check which wall types you have (drywall, concrete, brick) and use the appropriate type of wall anchor.

Additionally, you can connect the open shelf units with small joining plates or angle brackets to adjacent elements to make the entire composition more stable.

Regarding aesthetics: by combining open shelves with closed elements (e.g., sliding doors or hinged doors), you can create storage space while achieving a cleaner, calmer appearance.

If you need guidance on the exact installation or a step-by-step instruction, feel free to ask again. I’m happy to help.