ᐅ IKEA BESTÅ DIY: How do I build a combination with drawers and open compartments?

Hello everyone, I am planning an Ikea BESTÅ combination that includes both open compartments and drawers. I want to take advantage of the modules’ flexibility to create a custom arrangement that fits my living space perfectly. It is important to me that the construction remains stable, especially when several drawers are integrated.

My specific question: What is the best way to assemble such a combination with drawers and open compartments? What order and assembly instructions are crucial to ensure the furniture is sturdy, functional, and visually appealing afterward?

For example, how can I prevent the entire unit from twisting slightly under the weight of the drawers? And are there common mistakes people often overlook with this type of combination?

I would appreciate any constructive tips, assembly experiences, or recommendations for particularly useful accessories.

It’s best to start with the frame components and fully assemble the base units first. Then you can build the drawer modules separately and hang them into the open compartments.

Pay special attention to the corner joints and make full use of the supplied dowels. Strengthen the assembly by fully installing the back panels, as this provides stability against twisting.

Espen schrieb:
It's best to start with the frame components and build the base units completely first.

Exactly, that's already half the battle!

If you then play around a bit with the colors of the fronts, you can create cool accents. For example, black drawer fronts with white open compartments. And it sounds surprising, but accessories like soft-close slides really make a difference in terms of comfort.

And don't worry, you can manage the twisting—just don't forget the back panel, and if it wobbles, add corner brackets.😉

For stability, I can add that the back panel is the primary factor in preventing twisting. For BESTÅ, I recommend attaching the back panel as completely and flatly as possible, ideally using screws at all designated points.

Regarding drawer installation: The drawer slides must be precisely aligned and securely fastened with enough attachment points to ensure smooth operation and long-lasting function.

Common mistakes include loosely fastening the side panels and missing anchoring of the back panel to the furniture frame. These often lead to instability and increased wear.

Hey, I recently completed a project just like this and can only say: It’s really fun! 😃

lalutau schrieb:
The back panel is the main factor that prevents twisting.

Absolutely right! I even screwed in corner brackets inside for extra stability!

It’s also worth fully assembling the drawers before installing them. That way, you can check if everything runs smoothly before the modules are in place — it saves a lot of hassle!

One more tip: If you have open compartments that you fill with relatively light items, you can use spacers between the module and the back panel — this adds even more stability.

GLALEO schrieb:
It’s also worth fully assembling the drawers before installing them. This way, you can check if everything operates smoothly before the modules are in place – it saves a lot of hassle!

Thanks for the tip, that makes sense.

I have another question: IKEA offers different drawer models, some with metal sides and others with wooden panels only. Are there any models you would recommend from a practical or durability standpoint, especially if the drawers will be used frequently?

Also, what about the load capacity of the open compartments? Should I reinforce the inside if I plan to store books or decorative items there?