ᐅ How can I optimize Ikea Hemnes furniture for small living spaces?

I have a question: How can I optimize Ikea Hemnes furniture to make the best use of small living spaces? I am particularly interested in how to make the most of the limited space available while working with the fixed dimensions of the Hemnes series. What design approaches, additions, or modifications have you successfully implemented? I am especially curious about how to maximize storage without overcrowding the room or restricting movement. Tips on clever modular solutions or DIY changes to Hemnes furniture are also welcome.

For small rooms, it helps to choose tall furniture that provides ample storage space upwards. Hemnes display cabinets or tall cupboards are ideal. Also, take advantage of the option to customize internal elements such as shelves to make the best use of the height.

The Hemnes series is fundamentally well-designed but comes with standardized dimensions that cannot be altered. For efficient use of space, I recommend:
- Using Hemnes dressers with drawers, as they organize storage more effectively than open shelves
- Additionally, sliding boxes or containers under Hemnes beds can create extra storage without the need for new construction
- When wall-mounting Hemnes shelves, it is worth choosing the narrower versions to minimize the footprint
- Another option is to complement them with modular IKEA systems that can fit under or beside Hemnes furniture

The goal is a clear layout and avoiding a cluttered appearance.

gaubla schrieb:
When mounting Hemnes shelves on the wall, it’s worth using the narrower versions to save floor space

I couldn’t agree more; that’s exactly how I proceeded. At first, I was concerned about the “wooden” look of the Hemnes furniture, but with light colors and open shelving, my small room now feels much airier.

What helped me was arranging the Hemnes shelves as room dividers without filling them up to the ceiling, visually separating different parts of the space. This added a new dimension to my small apartment. Not perfect, but doable and flexible.

The biggest challenge was letting go of the idea that more furniture automatically means more comfort. Often, less is more.

I have a critical question regarding the usual recommendations: Does it really make sense to choose Hemnes furniture solely based on its height? Isn't the volume more important? Tall furniture may save floor space, but it can feel overwhelming in small apartments if the sense of space is compromised. Here, I would suggest considering not only functional optimization but also visual balance.

Is anyone here of the opinion that when customizing the Hemnes range, a modular approach should be taken—using individual pieces rather than complete sets? I believe this can create contrast and provide more flexibility to the room.

Victor54 schrieb:
Does it really make sense to choose Hemnes furniture solely based on its height? Isn’t the volume more important?

I can confirm that. I use Hemnes mirrored cabinets and dressers that are not very tall, but slim and deep. This way, I get good storage space and the room doesn’t feel cramped.

In addition, I install small shelves and use hooks on the inside of doors to hang things – this creates extra storage without needing new furniture.