ᐅ How can I make the best use of IKEA Brimnes furniture for small spaces?

Created on: 26 Nov 2021 19:37
J
jangarik
Hello everyone,

I would like to start a discussion about the optimal use of IKEA Brimnes furniture in small rooms. The challenge is that my living room is really limited in size—about 12 square meters (130 square feet)—and I want to make the most efficient use of the available space without making it feel cluttered.

My specific questions are: Which Brimnes pieces work best for small areas? How do you combine the furniture to maximize storage without restricting movement? Are there any clever storage or organization solutions that I may have overlooked?

For example, I use a Brimnes bed with storage, but I’m unsure how to best integrate sideboards or shelves. I appreciate any tips, including examples of how you have arranged your spaces. Thanks in advance!
G
Garry
27 Nov 2021 18:46
For efficient space utilization with Brimnes furniture, I can offer the following recommendations:

1. Prioritize furniture with storage options, such as the Brimnes bed with drawers.
2. Add side tables or small cabinets that can be used flexibly.
3. Install wall shelves or overhead cabinets to make use of vertical space and keep floor area clear.
4. Avoid open shelving, as it can quickly look cluttered, especially in tight spaces.
5. Measure carefully before purchasing and ensure no piece of furniture restricts movement.

These points are based on ergonomic principles of space planning, which are especially important for small areas.
L
Lamar
28 Nov 2021 09:18
nanidra schrieb:
When I read this, I keep wondering: Why focus so much on IKEA?

I agree – IKEA is convenient, but often with Brimnes you miss out on discovering truly innovative solutions.
Takutau schrieb:
Sometimes it helps to coordinate the colors of furniture and walls to make rooms appear visually larger.

This point is essential; otherwise, the room can quickly feel claustrophobic.

Regarding the initial question: In my opinion, the biggest issue with Brimnes in small spaces is the lack of flexibility – there is no furniture that can be folded or transformed. If the storage under the bed is enough, fine, but that’s about it.

For me, modular seating or multifunctional systems are better suited because Brimnes tends to look standardized and creates uniformity, which I personally find boring in small apartments.
J
jangarik
28 Nov 2021 21:04
Thank you all for your diverse and very helpful feedback!

Here is a brief summary of what I’m taking away for my situation:

- The Brimnes bed with storage remains my main piece of furniture, as the storage space underneath is very important.
- I will prefer a sideboard with doors to keep the appearance tidier and to keep dust out, as suggested by LUISABEL and Takutau.
- The idea of wall-mounted cabinets sounds promising, especially to save floor space.
- In terms of color, I will focus on light, coordinated tones to make the room appear visually larger.

[@nanidra:] I understand your criticism of focusing on IKEA and Brimnes and respect your desire for more individuality – but at the moment, due to budget and availability, this is my best compromise. Still, I will try to get the most out of it through creative combinations.

If anyone has tips for organizing inside the drawers – which storage aids or organizing systems work well there – I would be very interested!