ᐅ How can I convert an Ikea BESTA unit into an open shelving system with integrated lighting?

Hello everyone, I want to convert an Ikea BESTÅ shelving unit into an open shelf and integrate built-in lighting. Specifically, I’m interested in how to modify the unit when the doors are removed or left open so that a harmonious and independent interior lighting can be installed without visible cables or changes to the dimensions. I would like to integrate LED strips or small recessed lights that can be operated via a convenient switch or motion sensor. How have you solved this technically, what electrical components do you use, and how do you stabilize the structure without the doors? Are there any particularly suitable mounting options or materials that have proven effective within the BESTÅ system? Thanks for your tips and experiences!

You can easily attach LED strips inside on the upper shelves using 3M adhesive tape. For power, a 12V power supply is recommended. If you are not using doors, use side panels for stabilization or install additional metal brackets; otherwise, it will be unstable. Switches or motion sensors are available as ready-made sets.

Vinzenzjo schrieb:
How did you handle this technically, what electrical components do you use, and how do you stabilize the structure without doors?

Hello Vinzenzjo, I’m happy to explain a few basics that are helpful when converting BESTÅ units into open shelving with integrated lighting.

First: BESTÅ cabinets are usually designed for a closed look with doors or sliding panels. If you remove the doors, you lose an important stabilizing element. Therefore, you should either:
- screw cross braces from a hardware store (e.g., angle brackets) inside the sides,
- or glue the shelves more firmly in place,
- alternatively, reinforce the back panel: either attach a thin MDF board as a back panel or keep the existing back panels and mount a light strip on them.

For lighting, LED strips are very popular. The 12V LED strips are more flexible and safer than 230V modules. Make sure to choose dimmable versions if you want to control the brightness.

Regarding the switch: You can install simple toggle switches on the side panel. For motion sensors, a model with a small sensor that can be hidden is recommended, so the light only turns on when someone is in front of the unit.

Cable routing: You can run the cables inside plastic cable channels along the sidewalls to keep everything neat and tidy.

If you want to experiment with battery-powered solutions, make sure the batteries are not too large and the charging stations are easily accessible.

If you have any more questions or want more details, feel free to ask!

islaron schrieb:
Switches or motion detectors are available as ready-made sets.

I completely understand that stability and appropriate lighting can be quite challenging. Especially when you omit doors, the shelf can sometimes feel a bit “bare” or unstable. During the renovation of my BESTÅ, I was initially worried it might end up too wobbly because the doors, which acted as structural support, were missing.

What helped me was not only installing simple brackets but also paying attention to the shelves themselves. I secured them additionally with waterproof wood glue and mounted the unit to the wall using concealed brackets – this provides stability and makes the overall appearance much more elegant.

Regarding the lighting: motion sensors are really convenient because the light only turns on when you are looking for something and switches off again after an adjustable period. This saves energy and is very practical. However, I found that the sensors need to be positioned carefully so they are not disturbed by daylight or too sensitive.

Don’t worry, it’s definitely doable, even if it seems a bit complicated at first – with patience, good results can be achieved. If you like, I can also share the specific sensors and LED strips I used.