ᐅ How can I transform IKEA BESTA into a modern TV and media cabinet?
Created on: 21 Jun 2023 18:37
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Bla54Hello everyone, I plan to convert my IKEA Besta into a modern TV and media unit but have some questions and would appreciate experience and advice. Specifically, I am interested in how to best modify the classic BESTA system to achieve a contemporary look while integrating practical features for cable management and device cooling. I am also considering adding LED lighting and possibly replacing some components with other materials such as glass or metal, without losing the modular character of BESTA. What approaches do you recommend? Are there any proven conversion projects that could serve as a solid source of inspiration? I also have questions regarding stability and securely mounting TVs on the modified BESTA units. Looking forward to your detailed assessments and tips.
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Nathanaelk21 Jun 2023 20:21Hello Bla54,
First of all, I think it’s great that you are putting so much thought into this – a project like this can be really exciting and rewarding. When converting IKEA BESTA units into a modern TV and media cabinet, there are several important aspects to consider, which I will explain to you in detail.
- Material choice and appearance: BESTA elements are originally made from melamine-coated particleboard, which can quickly look modern if you replace or paint the fronts. You can add glass fronts with special clear glass inserts here and there, which enhances the overall look and adds a sense of lightness.
- Cable management: Be sure to plan enough cable openings, preferably in the back panels or on the sides. You can carefully cut out the back panel using a jigsaw or router to create space for cable channels. Please pay attention to stability during this, as the back panel contributes to the overall rigidity.
- Device ventilation: Electronic devices need air circulation; receivers and consoles, in particular, can heat up quickly. Provide ventilation holes or more open compartments to avoid overheating. Small fans can be added optionally but should be quiet.
- LED lighting: Colored or white LED strips can be attached behind or under the edges of the furniture. Dimmable LEDs are recommended, preferably controlled by a remote control. Consider space for the power supply and ensure safe wiring.
- TV mounting: Depending on the size and weight of your TV, check whether wall mounting with a sturdy bracket is better than mounting directly on the furniture. If mounting on the BESTA unit is preferred, you can increase load capacity significantly by using strong mounting rails and additional cross supports.
I would be interested to know which BESTA variations you are using (dimensions, types) so I can better assess how stable the construction will be. The size and weight of your TV are also important factors here.
I look forward to your answers so that I can address possible technical challenges more precisely.
First of all, I think it’s great that you are putting so much thought into this – a project like this can be really exciting and rewarding. When converting IKEA BESTA units into a modern TV and media cabinet, there are several important aspects to consider, which I will explain to you in detail.
- Material choice and appearance: BESTA elements are originally made from melamine-coated particleboard, which can quickly look modern if you replace or paint the fronts. You can add glass fronts with special clear glass inserts here and there, which enhances the overall look and adds a sense of lightness.
- Cable management: Be sure to plan enough cable openings, preferably in the back panels or on the sides. You can carefully cut out the back panel using a jigsaw or router to create space for cable channels. Please pay attention to stability during this, as the back panel contributes to the overall rigidity.
- Device ventilation: Electronic devices need air circulation; receivers and consoles, in particular, can heat up quickly. Provide ventilation holes or more open compartments to avoid overheating. Small fans can be added optionally but should be quiet.
- LED lighting: Colored or white LED strips can be attached behind or under the edges of the furniture. Dimmable LEDs are recommended, preferably controlled by a remote control. Consider space for the power supply and ensure safe wiring.
- TV mounting: Depending on the size and weight of your TV, check whether wall mounting with a sturdy bracket is better than mounting directly on the furniture. If mounting on the BESTA unit is preferred, you can increase load capacity significantly by using strong mounting rails and additional cross supports.
I would be interested to know which BESTA variations you are using (dimensions, types) so I can better assess how stable the construction will be. The size and weight of your TV are also important factors here.
I look forward to your answers so that I can address possible technical challenges more precisely.
A tip from my experience: If you receive the BESTA modular unit, try removing the back panel during wiring and replace it with thinner plywood panels with cut-out cable openings. These are sturdy and allow for neater cable management.
Regarding materials: Matte fronts look more modern than glossy ones and are less prone to showing wear. You can use glass for individual doors, but make sure they are securely fastened, as heavy glass doors on hinges can affect stability.
As for mounting the TV, I generally recommend wall-mounting it. The furniture can then serve only as a shelf and storage space. If the TV is to stand on the furniture, be sure to reinforce the supporting structure, for example with metal brackets and additional cross braces.
Installing LED lighting discreetly enhances the effect and prevents glare. RGB strips are good if you want to create different lighting moods, while warm white LEDs are better for neutral illumination.
Regarding materials: Matte fronts look more modern than glossy ones and are less prone to showing wear. You can use glass for individual doors, but make sure they are securely fastened, as heavy glass doors on hinges can affect stability.
As for mounting the TV, I generally recommend wall-mounting it. The furniture can then serve only as a shelf and storage space. If the TV is to stand on the furniture, be sure to reinforce the supporting structure, for example with metal brackets and additional cross braces.
Installing LED lighting discreetly enhances the effect and prevents glare. RGB strips are good if you want to create different lighting moods, while warm white LEDs are better for neutral illumination.
M
Marlenepa22 Jun 2023 19:53Hello Bla54, I completely understand your thoughts! Especially with BESTA, I think it’s important to make custom adjustments that fit your needs without compromising stability and functionality. Often, it helps to carefully think in advance about which devices you want to accommodate and how frequently you will use them.
One idea from my experience: I replaced the doors on one of my furniture pieces with doors I bought myself that have metal frames, which makes the piece look more elegant and stable. I also created a cutout at the back for cables and added cable management elements to keep everything tidy.
Regarding LEDs, I recommend starting by experimenting with affordable kits—they are usually easy to install and replace. If you decide on a more complex lighting system, for example one that works with smart home components, be sure to factor in the effort required for installation.
What does your room look like, Bla54? Is there plenty of natural light, or are you aiming to create a more “enclosed” media zone?
One idea from my experience: I replaced the doors on one of my furniture pieces with doors I bought myself that have metal frames, which makes the piece look more elegant and stable. I also created a cutout at the back for cables and added cable management elements to keep everything tidy.
Regarding LEDs, I recommend starting by experimenting with affordable kits—they are usually easy to install and replace. If you decide on a more complex lighting system, for example one that works with smart home components, be sure to factor in the effort required for installation.
What does your room look like, Bla54? Is there plenty of natural light, or are you aiming to create a more “enclosed” media zone?
I believe that for projects like this, one should consider not only aesthetics and functionality but also long-term use and potential modifications.
This point is essential because if you significantly alter or remove the back panel, you can quickly lose stability. Therefore, I would suggest installing an alternative stable structure instead of the back panel that holds the furniture together while also allowing cable routing.
Additionally, you need to consider how often you plan to change devices. If you rearrange frequently, you should opt for modular cable management solutions and place outlets so they remain flexible. The integration of glass or metal looks nice, but the additional weight loads should not be underestimated. Hence, precise load calculations and appropriate materials are important.
What is the weight of your TV, and which version of the BESTA do you have? The requirements can vary significantly depending on this.
Nathanaelk schrieb:
Make sure to pay attention to stability – the back panel contributes to rigidity.
This point is essential because if you significantly alter or remove the back panel, you can quickly lose stability. Therefore, I would suggest installing an alternative stable structure instead of the back panel that holds the furniture together while also allowing cable routing.
Additionally, you need to consider how often you plan to change devices. If you rearrange frequently, you should opt for modular cable management solutions and place outlets so they remain flexible. The integration of glass or metal looks nice, but the additional weight loads should not be underestimated. Hence, precise load calculations and appropriate materials are important.
What is the weight of your TV, and which version of the BESTA do you have? The requirements can vary significantly depending on this.
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