ᐅ How do I build Ikea BESTA furniture with a combination of open shelves and closed compartments?

Hello everyone, I am planning to build a furniture piece using the Ikea Besta system that includes both open shelves and closed compartments. Specifically, I would like to know the best way to combine the individual BESTA units to create a balanced mix of visible surfaces and storage space. Are there practical modules that work well together, or will I need special customizations? I am also interested in how to attach the doors and back panels on the different units to ensure everything remains stable and looks good. Your experiences and tips would be very helpful, especially regarding assembly and potential challenges during implementation. Thank you!

It is best to build open shelves using the BESTA frames without doors, and for closed compartments, use the matching doors and back panels. You can connect the modules with the included connectors from IKEA. Make sure to install the back panels correctly, as this significantly improves stability.

Hello janone, here is a brief guide on combining open and closed elements in the BESTA system:

- First, choose the size of the individual modules; 60x40 cm (24x16 inches) is common.
- For open shelves, simply remove the doors and back panels or use an open back panel if you want to integrate lighting.
- Closed compartments consist of module frames with doors and must always include back panels to ensure stability.
- When assembling, make sure to connect the modules on the same level and avoid placing overly heavy elements on top.

A common mistake is not securing the back panels properly or leaving them out altogether, which makes the structure unstable. Take your time during assembly and try to use the original fasteners from Ikea whenever possible.

If you like, I can also explain details such as connection methods or tips for alignment.

KUDAISY schrieb:
Enclosed compartments consist of modular frames with doors and must always be fitted with back panels to ensure stability.

That’s really helpful, thank you! I’m particularly interested in whether the back panels can be completely omitted for open shelving units or if there should be an alternative solution to ensure some stability, especially if I want to place the furniture freestanding. Are there any recommendations for this?

Omitting back panels entirely on open shelves noticeably reduces stability. For freestanding BESTA units, I recommend using a thin back panel or alternatively a clear acrylic sheet. This provides stability without compromising the open design. Additionally, the modules should be securely connected, which is ensured by the IKEA connectors. If you prefer floating shelves or wall mounting, stability needs to be considered differently. For freestanding furniture, always plan to include back panels or stabilizing elements.

toril schrieb:
For freestanding BESTA combinations, I recommend using a thin back panel or alternatively a transparent acrylic sheet.

Thanks, that sounds like a good solution. I’m a bit unsure how to ideally install the doors on the closed compartments so that they align flush and no gaps appear. Can this be easily adjusted with the IKEA fittings? And what about the handles – do many people use the original ones or are there recommended alternatives that work well with BESTA?