ᐅ Have you renovated the Kallax yourself (adding casters, a tabletop, etc.)?

Hello everyone,

I would like to know if anyone in this forum has experience modifying the IKEA Kallax shelving unit. Specifically, I’m interested in things like adding casters, attaching a tabletop, or changing the dimensions.

I’m drawn to this project because I want to create a mobile yet functional piece of furniture—perhaps with additional features that IKEA doesn’t offer.

Have you ever customized the Kallax yourself? What materials and tools did you use, and what should be taken into special consideration?

Thanks for your tips and experiences!

Hello Garous,

I equipped my Kallax with casters a while ago to make it easier to move around the room. It is important to use sturdy furniture casters with locks to prevent unwanted rolling. Installation is relatively simple if you remove the back panel or at least attach the caster screws directly under the shelf.

Regarding the tabletop: you should make sure to choose a board that matches the exact dimensions of the Kallax shelving unit and ideally rests on it without needing to be screwed down if you want flexibility. Alternatively, you can use screws with brackets to ensure stability.

In terms of tools, a cordless drill, screws, possibly wall plugs, and a tape measure are sufficient. For altered dimensions, cutting work is inevitable, which can be done with a jigsaw or table saw. It is important to ensure clean cut edges and good sealing to prevent fraying.

Hello Garous,

I can add a few basic tips on this topic:

1. Casters: As SONLIS already mentioned, it is very important to use sturdy casters with locks. For higher load capacity, it is recommended to install them on the underside of the shelf unit.

2. Tabletop: Often, a wooden or MDF board is placed on top of the Kallax. A simple method is to secure the board with double-sided tape if you want to remove it later. For a permanent connection, brackets or screws should be used.

3. Modifications to the shelf unit itself: If you want to shorten the Kallax, for example in height, you should consider the structural stability. The back panel provides a lot of reinforcement; cutting it can make the unit less stable. Therefore, careful planning is necessary.

If you want to modify individual compartments, using adjustable shelves or removable inserts can be helpful.

Do you have a specific project you want to carry out? Maybe we can provide more targeted advice.

Ramon4 schrieb:
Do you have a specific project you want to implement?

Good question – basically, I want to place the Kallax between the sofa corner and the dining table, but as a movable surface for drinks or snacks that I can easily slide around. So it should be about 80 cm (31.5 inches) high, meaning a slight adjustment in height would be great. I was also thinking about a smooth, wipeable surface that is easy to clean, since spills can happen.

I don’t want to raise the Kallax too much at the wheel height because it could become unstable. Therefore, I’m looking for advice on how to attach the casters as discreetly and securely as possible.

The tabletop should be sturdy, perhaps a coated MDF or plywood panel?

Does anyone have experience or specific recommendations?

My recommendation:

For a height of about 80 cm (31.5 inches), you should first be familiar with the standard dimensions of Kallax (77 cm / 30.3 inches tall). To adapt the shelf, you can either insert an additional board underneath or adjust the legs or casters accordingly. Attaching casters to the bottom is the best way to ensure mobility. There are casters with a low profile (e.g., 3–4 cm / 1.2–1.6 inches) that still support a load capacity of 15–20 kg (33–44 lbs) per caster.

Garous schrieb:
The tabletop should be sturdy, maybe a coated MDF or plywood panel?

Plywood panels are more robust and less sensitive to moisture compared to MDF, which is especially beneficial for wipeable surfaces. Applying a coating such as varnish or water-repellent oil is also recommended. Additionally, the tabletop can be invisibly fixed to the shelf with washers and small brackets.

I would advise against cutting the height of the back panel, as this reduces stability.

Hi everyone,

I equipped my Kallax with casters – I find it really practical! My clear recommendation: casters with brakes, otherwise it tends to roll away too easily. ;-)

Garous schrieb:
I don’t want to raise the Kallax too much with casters, otherwise it becomes unstable

That’s exactly a point that is often underestimated. Better to use smaller casters, but of good quality.

I bought the tabletop made of plywood, which I then treated with clear hard wax oil. It looks great and is very easy to clean. Plus, small dents or scratches can simply be sanded off later.

A little tip: For mobile use, I placed non-slip rubber pads under the casters. This prevents the Kallax from sliding on smooth floors when loaded.

Have fun building! 🙂