ᐅ Extending the Billy Shelving Unit with Drawers – Which Models Are Compatible?
Created on: 4 Sep 2022 09:12
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Carstengo
Hello everyone,
I’m planning to expand my existing Billy bookshelf with additional drawers, but I’m not yet sure which models would be best suited for this. I’m especially interested in which drawer systems are directly compatible with the Billy bookshelf without requiring major modifications. I would also like to know if there are specific dimensions or construction types I should pay attention to—both for the width and depth of the drawers as well as for the mounting options.
Can you recommend which drawer models work best with the Billy bookshelf, where to find them, and what to consider to ensure the extension looks cohesive and functions well?
Thanks in advance for your advice!
I’m planning to expand my existing Billy bookshelf with additional drawers, but I’m not yet sure which models would be best suited for this. I’m especially interested in which drawer systems are directly compatible with the Billy bookshelf without requiring major modifications. I would also like to know if there are specific dimensions or construction types I should pay attention to—both for the width and depth of the drawers as well as for the mounting options.
Can you recommend which drawer models work best with the Billy bookshelf, where to find them, and what to consider to ensure the extension looks cohesive and functions well?
Thanks in advance for your advice!
If you don’t want to build your own drawers, you can buy ready-made drawer modules that are fully compatible with Billy. Check specialized furniture stores or IKEA-specific accessory suppliers for these.
Most drawers require side-mounted runners, which you can attach to the shelf using screws.
Most drawers require side-mounted runners, which you can attach to the shelf using screws.
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Carstengo5 Sep 2022 15:27edisondan schrieb:
Technically, you need sturdy guide rails, which are usually referred to as full extension slides. Thank you, that helps a lot. I have a question about the guide rails: Are full extension slides the only option, or are there other systems you can use, such as side-mounted runners or ball-bearing guides?
Additionally, I would like to know if anyone has experience installing drawers in a Billy bookshelf with a door frame—that is, when the shelf has been modified with doors. Does this affect the choice or installation of the drawers?
I want to avoid major modifications at the end if things don’t fit. It would be great if someone could share their experiences or common issues.
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baAlejandr6 Sep 2022 10:54Hello Carstengo,
regarding your questions: Full-extension drawer slides are not the only option, but they are the most common because they allow the drawer to be fully pulled out and are often easier to install. Side-mounted and ball-bearing slides have similar functions, but you need to pay attention to the installation height and internal dimensions, as the different slide mechanisms require varying amounts of space.
Concerning drawers combined with doors: this can be problematic because doors usually swing inward and may block the drawer. The front design can also be more complicated if you want to align the drawer front with the door front. In this case, it’s worth taking a closer look at combinations with overlay doors or sliding doors.
One more tip: not all Billy models have exactly the same dimensions, especially older versions. So make sure to measure carefully and check the IKEA planner for updates if needed.
I hope this helps you further.
regarding your questions: Full-extension drawer slides are not the only option, but they are the most common because they allow the drawer to be fully pulled out and are often easier to install. Side-mounted and ball-bearing slides have similar functions, but you need to pay attention to the installation height and internal dimensions, as the different slide mechanisms require varying amounts of space.
Concerning drawers combined with doors: this can be problematic because doors usually swing inward and may block the drawer. The front design can also be more complicated if you want to align the drawer front with the door front. In this case, it’s worth taking a closer look at combinations with overlay doors or sliding doors.
One more tip: not all Billy models have exactly the same dimensions, especially older versions. So make sure to measure carefully and check the IKEA planner for updates if needed.
I hope this helps you further.
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