ᐅ How do I build an IKEA Metod kitchen island with storage?

Created on: 7 Oct 2022 08:13
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tarjohnnie
Hello everyone,

I am currently planning to build an IKEA Metod kitchen island with enough storage space for my new apartment. However, I am facing some challenges, especially regarding the right combination of cabinets and the stability of the construction. My questions are as follows:

- Which cabinet frames are best suited for an island that should serve both as a workspace and storage?
- Are there specific cover panels or trim strips recommended when placing the modules freely in the room?
- How can I secure the island as stable and durable as possible without causing permanent damage to the floor?

I would greatly appreciate any tips on efficient planning, assembly steps, and materials used. Perhaps someone here already has practical experience with the IKEA Metod kitchen island and can provide a step-by-step guide or useful advice. Thank you in advance!
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COLEBAR
7 Oct 2022 18:39
For the countertop: Screws with the IKEA assembly kit. Use glue only if you do not plan to remove anything later.

For connecting: Angle brackets or Metod connection fittings are sufficient for good stability.

Storage: 80cm (31.5 inches) deep base cabinets, internal drawers, all standard.
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Matthewt48
8 Oct 2022 07:44
Hello everyone,

I’m happy to share some practical experience with assembling your own kitchen. A few years ago, I built a Metod kitchen island following these steps:

- Before assembly, carefully align the cabinets and secure them with clamp brackets.
- Use IKEA’s connector fittings to firmly and securely join the cabinet carcasses.
- Apply paneling that is invisibly fastened with brackets, giving the whole unit a high-quality finish.
- For the countertop, use a sturdy mounting method: screws with a mounting kit work very well since they can be disassembled later if needed.
- Be sure to compensate for uneven floors with adjustable feet.

One important recommendation: plan the entire island before assembling and measure everything precisely. This will help avoid surprises during installation.

If you want, I can also provide a materials list and the order in which I completed the assembly steps.
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floga
8 Oct 2022 09:56
Tarjohnnie, I find your project very interesting and can understand your concerns about stability. As someone who also focused on storage space, I can offer a bit of reassurance.

I didn’t fix the island firmly to the floor but connected all the modules together. This way, you can move the unit if needed. It was important to me that nothing creaks or warps when moving it.

I compensated for a slight unevenness in the floor by using felt pads under the feet – this also helps protect the flooring from damage.

Of course, there’s no DIY project without some compromises, but I’m happy with the balance of flexibility and stability. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that your island turns out just as well!
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Alberto51
8 Oct 2022 12:11
kemeo68 schrieb:
I often see people sticking to the IKEA concept and then somehow trying to squeeze the whole system into an open space layout.

I find this perspective interesting, but I believe IKEA Metod mainly scores points for its flexibility. Those who take the time to combine the elements correctly and pay attention to using appropriate panels and connectors can definitely put together a stable island.
floga schrieb:
I didn’t screw the island to the floor but connected all the modules together. That way, you can move the unit if needed.

That’s exactly how I do it as well – I like to stay flexible and have also used felt gliders.

So, I can understand both viewpoints and think it depends on the planning and intended use.
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tarjohnnie
9 Oct 2022 08:37
Thank you all for the many helpful tips!

I have decided to connect the modules using connector plates, then attach the countertop with brackets, without fixing it directly to the floor. Felt pads will be used on the floor to protect the parquet flooring.

I would also appreciate a list of recommended cabinets and mounting materials, if anyone has already prepared one – I’m especially interested in how you handle visible panels and how you have glued or fastened them.

Thanks again for the supportive and critical feedback – this balancing act really helps me create a stable yet flexible solution!
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Nofege
9 Oct 2022 10:20
tarjohnnie schrieb:
I would appreciate a list of recommended cabinets and installation materials if anyone has already prepared one – I’m especially interested in how you handle cover panels and how you glued or fixed them.

Sure! Here’s a brief summary that I often recommend:

- Base cabinets: 80cm (31.5 inches) deep, for example 60x80 or 40x80, depending on storage needs
- Interior pull-outs and drawers: for optimal storage and ease of use
- Cover panels: IKEA Metod cover panels in the matching height and color tone, fixed with small connecting clips or, if needed, directly glued with mounting adhesive (for permanent hold)
- Connectors: Metod connector sets for carcasses, plus cabinet brackets from a hardware store (e.g., galvanized) to reinforce the construction on the floor and between modules
- Worktop: mounting kit including screws, which are pre-drilled; alternatively wood glue and clamps, but screws are more durable and reversible

Tip: Work with enough helpers and use spirit levels at every step. Safety comes first.