ᐅ How can I optimize Ikea Hemnes furniture for use in a home office?

Created on: 28 Jan 2020 08:07
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MUMEJE
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MUMEJE
28 Jan 2020 08:07
Hello everyone, I hope there are some Ikea fans here who are familiar with the Hemnes furniture series and maybe have experience with how to best set up and adapt these pieces specifically for a home office.

My goal is to design the Hemnes desk and matching cabinets so that they work well: provide tidy storage, are ergonomic, and at the same time look appealing for extended work from home.

Are there any practical tips for organization or technical upgrades (e.g., cable management)? Or perhaps clever DIY ideas to make better use of storage space? I am open to anything, even minor handyman modifications. What has worked well for you? Are there any issues I should definitely keep in mind?

Looking forward to your experiences and advice!
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elgla
28 Jan 2020 08:49
Hello, thank you for your detailed question; it really helps a lot.

I have been using the Hemnes desk in my home office for a year now. I noticed that the cable management at Ikea is really not ideal, which often annoys me a bit. Therefore, I got some cable ties and cable channels that can be attached under the tabletop, which help to keep the mess under control.

What also really helps are small storage boxes for drawers and shelves to make better use of the space. That also motivates me to declutter more often.

Otherwise, I find the wood pleasant and sturdy, but I think you shouldn’t skimp on the choice of lamp and chair to work ergonomically.

However, I’m still missing a practical solution for monitor mounts on the Hemnes desk, so I’m open to ideas.

Does anyone know more about this?
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danial60
28 Jan 2020 09:31
Regarding your question, MUMEJE, I would like to provide a detailed response, as I use the Hemnes desk and matching sideboards in my home office – combining standard furniture with some custom modifications.

1. Cable management: The Hemnes desk does not have dedicated cable openings. An effective method is to install multiple cable grommets (cable pass-throughs with covers) in the back panel or on the surface. This works well if you carefully use a small hole saw.

2. Storage: The drawers can be efficiently organized with dividers made of plastic or wood, so small items and office supplies don’t get mixed up. I ordered custom-made dividers that fit precisely.

3. Ergonomics: The desk has a comfortable height of 75 cm (30 inches); combined with an adjustable-height chair, this works very well. For monitors, I recommend using external monitor arms that can be attached to the desktop or the back panel of the sideboards.

4. DIY extensions: I reinforced cabinet hinges and added additional thin wooden shelves inside the doors to create more storage space for cables or small devices.

My question: Do you work with a laptop or multiple monitors? This might influence the best setup.
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onron
28 Jan 2020 10:14
From my perspective, the most important aspect when optimizing the Hemnes home office setup is ergonomics and space utilization.

For the desk, I recommend:
- A monitor arm to raise the screen to eye level, helping to prevent neck strain.
- Additional drawer inserts to keep things organized.
- Built-in cable channels mounted at the back of the desk to neatly bundle cables.

Additionally, I have found that adding a small, mobile side shelf is useful for extra storage without overcrowding the workspace.

It is important to position the furniture so that there is enough natural daylight.
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Rhett
28 Jan 2020 10:56
Mount the monitor on a flexible arm, use concealed cable channels, organize drawers with boxes.
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laureo
28 Jan 2020 11:28
In short: For the Hemnes desk, a combination of cable grommets and custom drawer inserts is recommended to keep the surface tidy and functional. The back of the furniture can also be used with hooks for headphones or small accessories. Make sure the lighting above the desk is adequately dimmable, as this improves concentration.