ᐅ Experience with KALLAX shelves next to old EXPEDIT units – color differences?

Hello everyone,

I have a somewhat specific question about furniture combinations: I own several old EXPEDIT shelves from IKEA, which I really appreciate and use regularly. Now I’ve noticed that I would like to add some KALLAX units as well—mainly because this new series is the successor to EXPEDIT and looks quite similar.

However, I have concerns about color differences. Does anyone have experience with how pronounced the color variations are between the old EXPEDIT shelves and the newer KALLAX units?

I’m asking especially because I plan to place the furniture pieces very close to each other in one room and want to achieve a as harmonious look as possible. It’s important for me to know whether the wood tones, white shades, or surface textures differ noticeably, or if these differences can be balanced out with some distance or suitable decor.

I would be very grateful for your experiences, tips, or concrete advice!

I have both at home and can say: Yes, the white shades differ noticeably; the KALLAX appears somewhat cooler and less warm than the EXPEDIT.

Hello,

Basically, there is indeed a difference between EXPEDIT and KALLAX in wood finish and white tones. This is mainly due to new manufacturing processes and changes in materials.

EXPEDIT often had a slightly warm, creamy white tone with a somewhat matte surface, while KALLAX offers a lighter, almost cooler shade with a satin gloss finish.

If you combine the two series, the color and surface differences are especially noticeable up close. If possible, I would recommend leaving a small gap or masking the transitions with suitable decorations (plants, books, fabric baskets).

You might also consider choosing one series for white finishes and keeping wood finishes separate, if a consistent look is very important to you.

MELANIE41 schrieb:
The shades of white differ noticeably

Thanks for the quick feedback! That roughly confirms my suspicion.

kau56 schrieb:
EXPEDIT often had a somewhat warm, creamy white tone with a slightly matte finish, while KALLAX offers a lighter, almost cooler shade with a satin finish.

Great explanation, that helps me a lot. Now I’m wondering whether I should be uncompromising with the white tones or allow some variation when it comes to wood colors. How is it with the wood colors? Are the differences minimal or more noticeable?

The wood finishes of EXPEDIT often appear slightly darker and warmer, as the varnish was somewhat matte and the grain more pronounced. KALLAX wood surfaces are generally lighter and smoother, with a subtle satin finish.

This difference is especially noticeable when the shelves are placed side by side. However, it does not necessarily cause issues if you make some adjustments with lighting and decoration.

I would structure the topic of color differences between EXPEDIT and KALLAX as follows:

1. Whites: EXPEDIT often had a cream-white, matte surface. KALLAX is usually a lighter white with a slight coating that appears somewhat glossier and cooler.

2. Wood appearance: EXPEDIT wood elements are slightly darker and show a more pronounced wood grain. KALLAX is more neutral here, being lighter and smoother.

3. Surface texture: KALLAX feels smoother, while EXPEDIT feels more natural with the grain being more noticeable.

4. Fit and dimensions: Measurements are generally compatible.

My advice: It is less important whether the tones match exactly; the overall impression in the room matters more. Distance, lighting, and suitable baskets or boxes can create smooth transitions.

If you want to combine the two series, a central decorative element or a color accent in the room would be a good visual anchor.