ᐅ Are there any tips for assembling Ikea BESTA units in tight spaces?

Created on: 15 Mar 2020 08:47
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Luruplo
Hello everyone, I am planning to assemble an Ikea Besta cabinet in a fairly tight space in my apartment. Specifically, it’s a corner with about 1.20 meters (4 feet) depth but only just under 1.50 meters (5 feet) in width. Due to these spatial constraints, I am unsure how to efficiently and practically install the Besta system there without bumping into the wall or furniture unnecessarily or making the assembly more difficult than it needs to be.

Do you have any experience, tips, or tricks, especially regarding the assembly and installation of the Besta system in such narrow spaces? How do you manage to securely connect the modules, attach the doors correctly, and install moving parts when space is limited? Any practical advice, including recommended tools or general approaches, would be very helpful. Thank you in advance!
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ottilie
15 Mar 2020 11:37
To be honest, the issue of limited space is often overestimated. Ikea often gives the impression that you need huge areas for assembly — totally overrated!
Lisele schrieb:
I can fully understand that this is causing you a lot of worry right now.

Sometimes you just have to step out of your comfort zone. Assemble the cabinet laid flat and then slide it into the corner. Done. When space is tight, you have to be creative and work with the available area, rather than trying to drive every single screw perfectly angled from the front. That doesn’t help.
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nedagla
15 Mar 2020 11:45
ottilie schrieb:
Sometimes you just have to step out of your mental comfort zone.

I completely agree! Especially when space is tight, flexibility is your best friend. Last time, I even temporarily removed the side walls and reinstalled them afterward – that made many things easier! Just think through the order of the work steps. After a few tries, it goes a lot faster.
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KarTristan
15 Mar 2020 12:09
A quick tip for tool selection: If you have tight spaces, narrow, long screwdrivers with interchangeable bits are ideal. They help you reach difficult areas.

I also recommend laying out a mat or blanket under the cabinet parts before assembly to avoid scratches from stone floors or similar surfaces. This is especially important for furniture like Ikea products, which often have laminated surfaces where small marks are easily visible.
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Lisele
16 Mar 2020 07:53
I reread the thread and one point is very important to me: If you assemble the furniture in tight spaces, really take your time and plan your steps in advance. This will not only save your nerves but also prevent a lot of complicated readjustments.

Sometimes small aids like spacers or shims can help if the wall is uneven. This way, you can set up the piece of furniture securely and without it tilting.

I definitely wish you calmness and success with the assembly!
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Kolepau
16 Mar 2020 08:15
Lisele schrieb:
I wish you calmness and success with your assembly!

Exactly! Don’t get discouraged! 🙂

Here’s my final tip: If possible, use assembly aids (like small helpers for screws) and well-fitting work gloves – they improve your grip and protect against minor injuries that can happen quickly in tight spaces. This way, you’ll keep enjoying furniture building!