ᐅ Are there any guides on how to add LED lighting to IKEA Hemnes furniture?

Created on: 25 Sep 2023 08:12
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Brittpa37
Hello everyone,

I recently purchased a Hemnes sideboard from IKEA and am now considering how to add LED lighting to the piece. Are there any tested and well-documented guides or DIY tutorials specifically focused on the Hemnes model?

It is important for me to find a solution that integrates as discreetly as possible, requires minimal modifications to the furniture, and ideally uses materials that are easy to source. I am also interested in tips regarding power supply, optimal mounting locations for the LEDs, and suitable light colors.

Does anyone have experience with these kinds of modifications or know of sources where such projects are explained in detail? Thanks in advance!
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Davidleo
26 Sep 2023 09:51
Oh, the topic of LEDs on the Hemnes is really exciting! 🙂 I equipped my Hemnes bookshelf with a smart LED strip from a well-known manufacturer and I’m totally impressed by how easy it is to use!

The great thing is that you can now get dimmable and color-changing LEDs that can even be controlled via an app. Installation is simple; the strips have a strong adhesive backing and can be easily attached under or behind the shelves.

For anyone who likes a bit more liveliness, this is definitely a highlight. I highly recommend it, and if you want, I can gladly share the main steps of how I did it!
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SUBEN60
26 Sep 2023 12:04
As an addition: When it comes to specific instructions, I recommend a structured approach.

- First, measure the piece of furniture precisely.
- Then choose the appropriate LED strip (e.g., 12V, IP20 for indoor use, or higher if moisture is present).
- The power supply should be external and well concealed.
- Pay attention to secure cable management, especially with moving parts.
- Aluminum profiles are recommended for mounting, as they provide a uniform lighting effect and extend the lifespan.

The key point is that you can achieve a lot with simple means without damaging the core of the furniture. Detailed step-by-step guides are especially found on DIY platforms. IKEA-specific instructions are usually unofficial and more community-driven.
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SETHBLA
27 Sep 2023 07:28
SUBEN60 schrieb:
Make sure to secure cables properly, especially around moving parts.

Exactly, some people forget this, and later on, you end up with short circuits or broken cables.

A tip: Plastic cable ducts are inexpensive and can be easily concealed behind shelves.
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GALEO4
27 Sep 2023 09:14
Brittpa37 schrieb:
a solution that integrates as discreetly as possible, requires no major modifications to the furniture, and ideally uses materials that are easy to obtain.

I see this as the key point: if you don’t want major modifications, you inevitably have to compromise on either the appearance or the functionality.

Simply sticking LED strips on is not invisible. It only becomes truly elegant when you plan, for example, recessing or flush-mounted fittings – but then we are no longer talking minimal-invasive.

Just a thought on how far one is willing to go to achieve beautiful results.