ᐅ How can I practically modify Malm furniture?

Created on: 22 Sep 2020 08:47
R
Reodearbhl
Hello everyone,

I am planning to modify my Ikea Malm furniture to make it more practical and better suited to my needs. Specifically, I have a Malm chest of drawers with four drawers, which doesn’t offer quite enough storage space for me. I am considering whether adding shelves or installing organizer systems inside could create more order and storage capacity. I am also thinking about whether removing the drawer fronts and converting the unit into open shelving might be useful.

I’m mainly interested in which modification options are practical and proven to work well in real use, without compromising stability or design too much. Who has experience and can offer tips on how to practically modify Malm furniture? I’m not looking for decoration advice; it’s really about practical alterations and ways to enhance usability.

Thanks in advance!
H
hauklo
22 Sep 2020 10:37
FEKAU schrieb:
I recommend reinforcing the connection points on the side panels with metal brackets and screws.

Exactly, and it is also advisable to position the brackets so they do not interfere with the drawer slides. Additionally, the original dowel holes should be taken into account to avoid unnecessarily weakening the wood.
L
Lidan56
22 Sep 2020 10:58
If you just want more order in the drawers, you can use organizing boxes. Simply place them inside; no modifications are necessary.

For other modifications, screws, brackets, and wooden strips should be used to maintain stability.
R
Reodearbhl
23 Sep 2020 07:18
Thank you very much for the tips so far!

I’m also interested in how you adapted to custom dimensions, for example when inserting an intermediate level at half the height. Are there good materials and methods for adding extra shelves that are both simple and sturdy?

And what about the appearance? Has anyone had experience that is not only practical but also preserves or even enhances the typical Malm look?
L
LOSAR
23 Sep 2020 07:50
I had MDF boards cut to size and installed them using angular wooden battens as supports. This provides good load-bearing capacity, looks neat, and is easy to execute.
S
Sikla
23 Sep 2020 08:04
For the installation of intermediate floors, I recommend metal clips or adjustable shelf supports that can be inserted into pre-drilled holes. This is flexible and can be dismantled if needed.
R
Repar
23 Sep 2020 08:31
A tip: Stylish self-adhesive tapes on the edges can enhance the appearance and protect the edges.