ᐅ How can I make the best use of Ikea BESTA for storage in the hallway?

Created on: 12 Apr 2022 08:37
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Ren_peo
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Ren_peo
12 Apr 2022 08:37
Hello everyone,

I am planning to use my new Ikea Besta system as a storage solution for my hallway and would appreciate some advice on how to set it up in the best way. My hallway is not very large but has a wall width of about 2.5 meters (8 feet 2 inches) and a ceiling height of around 2.3 meters (7 feet 7 inches).

I want to use the system to store practical items like shoes, scarves, hats, keys, and also some decoration. I am especially interested in how to efficiently combine the BESTA modules to maximize storage space while keeping a neat appearance in the hallway.

Does anyone have tips on module combinations, maybe with additional inserts or slimmer/taller options? How can the system be made stable, especially when loading it with heavier items? And would doors or open shelves work better – maybe even a mix of both?

Thanks for your suggestions!
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KNUTGI
12 Apr 2022 09:18
Hey Ren_peo,

"Does anyone have tips for combining the modules, maybe with additional inserts or narrower/taller versions?" – great question! 😄

I think a combination of low cabinets with doors and open shelves above is a great mix for entryway living. The closed doors hide the clutter (scarves and such), while the open compartments are perfect for displaying decorations or maybe a basket for keys.

If you want to make the BESTA system sturdy, I recommend always anchoring it to the wall. Often the units themselves can be a bit wobbly, but secured with a few screws and wall plugs, they become very stable.

And one more tip: the BESTA doors come not only in classic white but also with glass or as drawers. A bit of variety always adds some flair! Good luck with your project 😎
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minan
12 Apr 2022 11:46
I would like to take a closer look at the situation because there are some important points to consider when using BESTA in the hallway.

First, regarding the choice of modules: If your hallway isn’t very wide, in my experience the narrower modules with a width of 40 cm (16 inches) are more versatile, especially when combined with tall cabinets that you can mount on the wall. A height of 2.3 m (7 ft 7 in) gives you flexibility to choose tall units that maximize storage without overcrowding the space.

For storing different items, a mix of the following is recommended:
- Doors for frequently used, untidy things like scarves and hats that you want well concealed
- Open shelves or at least glass doors for decorative or less-used objects
- Drawers if you want to keep small miscellaneous items easily accessible

Regarding stability: The BESTA elements are generally not designed to carry very heavy loads. I recommend using high-quality wall brackets from a hardware store, which you can attach externally for extra support. Inside, you can use sturdy backing panels to reinforce the structures. I would also advise following the assembly instructions carefully and preferably having a helper to align the units safely.

I’m curious: How do you plan to arrange the modules? Do you want a single line or several smaller units?
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Kukar
12 Apr 2022 12:05
Doors are better than open shelves in the hallway because of dust and tidiness.

Mount them on the wall, including a back panel for stability.

Use modular inserts, such as baskets or drawers for small items.

Nothing more is needed.
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GAGRAHAM
13 Apr 2022 07:22
I love the BESTA system because it’s so flexible! 😍 If you want to make the most of your hallway, be sure to include baskets and boxes that can be easily pulled out. Super practical! Maybe even add some hook rails on the side of the BESTA unit to create extra hanging space for coats or bags.

Fun fact: I once combined tall BESTA cabinets with doors and open shelves, added some small plants and a colorful rug – it really makes the hallway much more inviting.

You’ve got this! Add your personal touch 🙂
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Laurence
13 Apr 2022 10:10
Ren_peo schrieb:
I want to use the system to create practical storage for shoes, scarves, hats, keys, and also some decorative items.

This is a very good use case for BESTA, especially since the system can be designed to be versatile. For shoes, shallow drawers positioned at the lower levels of the modules are recommended. Keeping heavier items at the bottom increases safety.
minan schrieb:
I would like to look at the situation in more detail because a few key points are important when using BESTA in the hallway.

The structural decision on how the modules are arranged should take into account the room width as well as the main users. Additionally, I would recommend using small removable boxes in the upper drawers for keys and hats – this helps keep things organized.

A mix of closed elements (to contain ‘clutter’) and open elements (for decoration) makes sense. This creates a tidy yet lively atmosphere.

If your front door and hallway face an exterior wall, keep in mind that the material should not be too sensitive to moisture, for example by ensuring regular ventilation.

Good luck with your project!