ᐅ How can I modify Ikea Besta units to create a combined TV and media furniture setup?

Hello everyone, I am planning to remodel a functional TV and media furniture system using the Ikea Besta range and have a few questions. Specifically, I am interested in ways to optimally adapt the carcass to my needs to create enough storage space for devices, cable management, and possibly speaker integration.

I would like to know which modules are best suited, whether the carcasses can be connected to each other to create a custom combination, and any tips for remodeling to ensure the whole setup remains stable and visually appealing.

Additionally, I am interested in what interior modifications make sense when, for example, accommodating devices that require ventilation or larger consoles.

If anyone has experience with DIY modifications of Ikea Besta as a TV and media furniture combination, I would appreciate detailed recommendations. I look forward to your ideas and advice!

For TV and media furniture, I usually use Besta cabinets measuring 120cm x 40cm (47 inches x 16 inches). They can be easily pushed together to create a single unit.

Cable management works best with cable grommets at the back or with external cable channels.

For ventilation, simply drill holes in the back panel of the cabinet or install ventilation grilles.

For optimal use of Ikea Besta as a TV and media unit, I recommend approaching the process in several steps.

1. Module Planning: The Besta series offers various cabinet sizes; wide modules (120cm x 40cm (47 inches x 16 inches)) are ideal for TVs and consoles.

2. Connecting the Cabinets: Use the supplied cam locks. For larger combinations, it is advisable to add metal brackets or flat connectors to increase stability. This is especially important when multiple modules are placed side by side or stacked.

3. Interior Adjustment: Devices that require ventilation need open backs or routed holes. Alternatively, metal ventilation grilles can be fitted. For cleaner cable management, pegboards or flexible cable grommets mounted at the back of the cabinet work well.

4. Speaker Integration: Depending on size, it is recommended to design speakers to be removable or place them on open shelves, as solid wood panels like those in Besta can negatively affect sound quality.

5. Appearance: A matte film or paint gives the unit a more premium look if the original design seems too plain. Base reinforcements can also help improve the furniture’s overall quality.

Mistakes to avoid: Do not simply line up modules without reinforcements, as the furniture may tip over or warp. Do not completely remove back panels if stability is required—make cut-outs instead.

In summary: With some DIY effort and proper planning, Ikea Besta can be effectively converted into a functional and customizable TV and media cabinet.

klo40 schrieb:
For ventilation, simply drill holes in the back panel of the cabinet or install ventilation grilles.

I would like to add that for ventilation, it is preferable to use precise recesses to maintain the stability of the back panel. It is important not to compromise the load-bearing capacity of the furniture structure.

Furthermore, the supplied cam connectors are convenient but do not always provide sufficient rigidity for larger assemblies. I recommend using screws with galvanized steel brackets as additional reinforcement.

For cable management, it is also advisable to plan ahead before the renovation: Which devices will be connected, what cable lengths are required, and where will outlets and possibly circuit breakers be installed?

Inside, installing adjustable shelves can increase flexibility. For heavy equipment, it is also advisable to reinforce the lower cross beams to distribute load peaks.

Overall, I recommend thorough planning that takes into account technical physics and material properties to avoid surprises during use later on.