ᐅ Are there any tips for using IKEA BESTA units in small apartments?

I live in a very small apartment with approximately 25 sqm (270 sq ft) of living space and would like to use the IKEA Besta system because I really like its modular options. However, I am facing challenges in planning how to combine the units effectively and create optimal storage without overcrowding or restricting the space.

Are there any proven tips, tricks, or planning recommendations specifically for using IKEA Besta in small apartments? I am especially interested in advice on choosing modules, cabinet height and depth, as well as smart storage solutions that help make the space appear larger visually.

Hello kubela,

first of all, your idea to use the BESTA system is quite practical for small apartments, as it is modular and offers many customization options. I recommend the following approach:

- Think carefully about the functions the cabinet should serve (storage, TV furniture, open shelves). This will help you choose the right combination of modules.

- Use shallower and taller modules rather than deep ones, as these take up less floor space while providing plenty of storage.

- It is important not to make the room feel visually cluttered. You can achieve this by using light colors available with BESTA, such as smooth white fronts.

- Sliding elements and doors help avoid the need to keep a large clearance in front of the cabinet—ideal for small rooms.

- For additional storage, boxes and inserts inside the BESTA modules work well to create clear organization and make better use of the volume.

- If your ceiling height allows it, building up to the ceiling or even using top modules as room dividers is worthwhile.

A common mistake is choosing too many different modules or too much decoration, which makes the space look overloaded.

To summarize: focus on functionality, choose tall rather than deep modules, use light colors, and include organizational aids inside. This gives you plenty of storage while keeping the look elegant and open.

I hope this helps you!

stefangla schrieb:
It is important not to make the space feel visually overloaded. You can achieve this by using light colors, which are available with BESTA, for example smooth white fronts.

This is a very important point. Additionally, I would add that when using IKEA BESTA in small apartments, the use of open compartments should be carefully planned. Although open compartments can visually lighten the space, they require consistent organization; otherwise, they quickly appear cluttered.

Furthermore, the choice of dimensions is crucial. BESTA units with a maximum depth of 40 cm (16 inches) are better suited so as not to make the space feel cramped. Regarding height, it often makes sense to keep the footprint small but build higher—for example, about 120 to 140 cm (47 to 55 inches) as a base unit, with complementary upper units or ceiling-mounted elements.

Another tip: use multifunctional modules, such as those that can also serve as seating or work surfaces, to optimize space usage.

The goal is to make the best use of the available space without overcrowding it or making it appear smaller. Planning with exact room measurements and a design tool can be very helpful in this regard.

I find it interesting how many people simply see BESTA as storage space, but its possibilities are often underestimated. You can creatively use doors, for example, placing them halfway up or combining different fronts to soften the look while keeping it functional.

stefangla schrieb:
It is important to avoid making the space look visually cluttered.

I don’t entirely agree with that. Sometimes a space that appears cluttered may seem unplanned to others, but in reality, it is perfectly adapted to one’s own needs. What matters is not how it looks, but how it works. If you need more, you might have to accept the “clutter” with a bit of a shift in perspective.

Also, I would recommend not just placing the unit against a wall as furniture but using it as a room divider if the apartment has an open-plan layout. This creates additional privacy and storage at the same time.

So: if you want to get the most out of it, you should be willing to experiment and not necessarily follow the rules of minimalism.

Simply choose: flat panels, light colors, use doors instead of open shelves. Adjust the height and use small boxes for organization.