ᐅ How can I convert Ikea BESTA into an open shelving unit with built-in lighting?

Hello everyone,

I am currently planning to modify my Ikea Besta shelving unit to create an open shelf design, meaning without doors and with clearly visible compartments. Additionally, I want to equip it with atmospheric integrated lighting, ideally LED strips or small spotlights.

I am particularly interested in how others have implemented this, which materials or tools you used, and how you managed to keep the wiring as discreet as possible. Are there specific technical terms or connectors I should be aware of when integrating LED lighting into furniture?

Also: How did you approach removing the doors and covers to ensure the shelving unit remains stable and wobble-free? What particular challenges might arise in the process?

I look forward to tips, experiences, or even creative inspiration regarding the conversion of Ikea BESTA into an open, illuminated shelf!

Hello KLAFU,

I can understand your concerns about stability – I had the same worries during my renovation. What worked well for me was carefully removing the doors and panels using an Allen key and screwdriver, while making sure not to damage the side drill holes or connectors.

Regarding the lighting: I used LED strips with a USB connector that can easily be clipped behind the back panel. I ran the wiring along the back of the shelf using clips so it remains hidden. Screwing and sanding the back panel is definitely the most challenging part.

I think it’s great that you want to keep the shelf open; it really adds a sense of spaciousness to the room. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!

Check the doors for proper fitting, securely screw the shelves in place, leave the back panel open or use a thinner wood panel as the back. Use LED strips with a 12V power supply; USB ports are not ideal for wide and long installations. The best way to hide cables is with cable clips or double-sided tape on the inside.

That's all you need.

Hello KLAFU,

to approach your project as clearly and technically sound as possible, I recommend first creating a rough sketch of the shelving unit with measurements and considering exactly where the lighting should be positioned. This will help with selecting the LED elements and planning the cable routing.

Regarding the removal of the doors: BESTA modules are usually connected with cam locks and dowels. First, remove the screws on the hinges, then detach the cam locks. You can leave the side panels of the frame intact to maintain stability. If the doors are completely removed, additional reinforcement may occasionally be advisable, for example with brackets underneath the shelf or on the back panel to counteract lateral forces.

Concerning the lighting:
- 12V LED strips are the most common and work well with power supplies. When choosing the power supply, make sure it has enough capacity for the total length of the LEDs.
- There are also smart LEDs that can be controlled via an app (RGB, dimmable).
- Wiring: Use cable ducts or self-adhesive cable clips, alternatively you can rout slots in the back panel (if you do not plan to move the shelf from the back permanently).
- Ideally, the connection should not be visible, for example mounted underneath or at the back, to avoid cable clutter.

If you also plan to integrate power outlets or switches into the furniture, you should plan this carefully in advance, as electrical installations inside furniture require special attention.

Do you already have specific measurements or LED products in mind? This would allow me to assist you more precisely.

Here is a brief step-by-step guide on how I modified my BESTA open shelving unit with lighting:

- Remove doors and back panel: Carefully unscrew the doors, and detach the back panel at the corners using a knife. Instead of the original back panel, I used a thinner plywood sheet, which is easier to work with.

- Ensure stability: Install additional brackets on the inside at the top and bottom to keep the frame rigid despite the missing back panel.

- Plan LED lighting: I chose 12V LED strips with a suitable power supply and attached them to the underside or back of the shelves.

- Wiring: I routed the cables along the connections behind the side panels and secured them with cable ties. It is important not to bend the cables sharply.

- Integrate electronics: Before screwing everything together, test all wireless or switch positions with the power supply.

- Complete assembly: Screw all parts firmly back together, leaving the door hinges and doors removed.

Important: Pay attention to safety and include load distribution for the power supply to prevent overheating. If you need specific values for LED strength, I am happy to share the brands that have worked well for me.

KUDAISY schrieb:
I chose 12V LED strips with a compatible power supply and attached them to the underside or back of the shelves.

That matches my experience as well – mounting them underneath the shelves provides really effective indirect lighting.

Nathanaelk schrieb:
If the doors are completely removed, an additional reinforcement is sometimes advisable, for example with brackets underneath the shelf or at the back, to counteract lateral forces.

I fully agree with that. I was initially concerned about stability too, but with a few brackets from the hardware store, the shelf became very sturdy again.

KLAFU, if you like, I can give you some tips on how I discreetly secured the cables to the back panel, as that is often the biggest concern. It’s not that complicated if you take a little time.