ᐅ Are there specific handles available for IKEA PLATSA units that I can install later?

Hello everyone, I recently purchased the IKEA Platsa system and am generally very satisfied with its flexibility and design. However, I am curious if there are any special handles that can be retrofitted to customize the appearance or functionality of my Platsa cabinets.

I’m not just referring to the standard IKEA handles, but also alternative types of handles that are specifically designed for this system or would fit well without compromising the furniture structure. Maybe there are even tips on which handle styles work best with the different Platsa surfaces or module sizes?

Has anyone had experience with this or can provide recommendations on which handles are compatible or specifically offered for Platsa? Thanks in advance for your help!

The question of whether there are special handles for the IKEA PLATSA system can be answered as follows: IKEA offers only a limited selection of its own handles specifically designed for the system’s fronts. These are mostly integrated handle strips or subtle front handles.

Apart from IKEA’s own range, standard furniture handles remain an option. PLATSA furniture is modular and often uses a common hole pattern (usually 32 mm hole spacing), which makes it relatively easy to retrofit standard furniture handles.

When retrofitting, it is advisable to carefully check the front thickness and the handle design to ensure both functionality and appearance are maintained. Additionally, consider whether you want to replace handles on just a few or all fronts, as different types of handles can affect the overall uniformity.

Hey, great question! The PLATSA system is really flexible – you can make a big impact just by choosing different handles. IKEA itself tends to offer rather simple handle options, but there are plenty of choices available out there.

I’ve seen many users, for example, use leather handles or colored metal handles in a Scandinavian style, which fit perfectly with the clean look.

The important thing is to check the measurements! Otherwise, the handle can end up crooked, which gets annoying over time. Maybe check at a hardware store or a furniture accessories shop for drawer handles with a 32 mm (1.25 inch) hole spacing – you’ll definitely find something that matches your style.

As an addition: Installing handles on PLATSA is technically quite feasible, as the hole patterns are standard, which simplifies the retrofitting process. However, when choosing handles, the following aspects are particularly important:

- Hole spacing: Typical hole spacing is 32 mm (1.25 inches), meaning you can use a wide range of common furniture handles, but you should measure carefully.
- Front thickness: PLATSA fronts vary in thickness, which can affect the length of screws needed to attach the handles.
- Surface material: With painted or veneered fronts, caution is necessary to avoid damage. It may be advisable to mark precisely and apply protective measures before drilling.

From personal experience, I recommend consulting a professional for heavier or more specialized handles or relying on pre-assembled kits that often include the correct screws.

I would be interested to know the exact dimensions of your fronts and whether you prefer a modern look or a more rustic handle style?

Palenar schrieb:
I’m interested in the exact dimensions of your fronts, and whether you prefer a modern look or a more rustic handle style?

Thank you for the detailed technical tips! My fronts are 18mm (3/4 inch) thick, and so far I have mostly used the smooth, matte white finish (PLATSA). I tend to lean towards a modern style – minimalist, preferably metal handles that don’t look too bulky. Maybe in black or brushed steel. Rustic is not really my style, more something timeless.

Above all, I want to avoid handles that stand out too much or disrupt the clean lines of the fronts. Are there any recommendations for types of metal handles that harmonize well or have proven to work particularly well?

Jil53 schrieb:
I tend to prefer a modern look – minimalist, with metal handles that don’t appear too bulky.

For that kind of style, I recommend using so-called “bar handles” or slim “mushroom” handles made of brushed steel or matte black. These types of handles are elegant, easy to install, and don’t disrupt the overall appearance.

As mentioned before, it’s important to adjust the screw length to fit your 18 mm (0.7 inch) thick front – screws around 15 to 20 mm (0.6 to 0.8 inch) usually work well. To be safe, you can also buy handle sets that include screws of the right length.

If you prefer something more understated, recessed handle strips that barely protrude and are often mounted directly on the edge of the front work well. These are sometimes available as accessories compatible with PLATSA.

If you plan to drill yourself, I recommend doing a test drill on a scrap piece to avoid accidentally damaging the furniture front.