ᐅ How can I use IKEA BESTA effectively and decoratively as a room divider?

I am currently considering whether I can use the IKEA Besta system as a room divider in my open-plan kitchen and living area in a way that is both efficient and decorative. I am especially wondering how to best arrange and combine the modules to create a private zone while also incorporating storage space effectively. Which heights and depths are most suitable for a room divider to ensure stability without appearing too bulky? Additionally, I am interested in how to ideally mix doors, drawers, and open shelves to make the entire piece visually more varied while keeping it practical. Do you have any tips or experiences on how to use the Besta system creatively and functionally as a room divider, perhaps including decorative elements or lighting? Safety is also important to me, such as preventing tipping or wobbling. Thanks in advance for any preventative advice!

Hello KELAGO,

Your idea to use IKEA BESTA as a room divider is great! I’ve done a similar project myself and would be happy to provide a step-by-step guide:

- Planning: Measure your space carefully and decide how wide the room divider should be. BESTA units come in various widths (60cm (24 inches), 120cm (47 inches), etc.) that you can combine.
- Height: I recommend a height between 120cm and 150cm (47 to 59 inches) for room dividers, as this creates the ideal balance between privacy and openness.
- Shelf combination: Mix closed cabinets (doors/drawers) with open shelves to provide both storage and display areas. Open shelves add a sense of airiness.
- Stability: Make sure to anchor the units together and, if necessary, secure them to the wall or floor—tip-over protection is essential for a freestanding piece like this.
- Decoration: Use the top surface for plants or slim shelves with LED strips to brighten up the space and add atmosphere.

Important: Avoid very tall doors on unstable units, as this increases the risk of tipping.

If you want more details, just let me know!

Sepele schrieb:
I recommend a height of 120cm to 150cm (47 to 59 inches) for room dividers, as this creates the ideal balance between privacy and openness.

This recommendation makes perfect sense both technically and aesthetically. Additionally, I would suggest considering the backsides when combining different modules: most BESTA systems do not come with finished back panels, which is important for a room divider since both sides are visible. It makes sense to either purchase back panels separately or reinforce the back with sturdy MDF boards, ideally in a decorative finish matching the rest of the furniture.

Installing shelves of different depths (e.g., 40cm and 20cm (16 and 8 inches)) can not only optimize storage space but also create a stepped effect that visually lightens the room. Pay close attention to the maximum load capacity of the shelves and the arrangement of the units to improve overall stability.

Regarding lighting: LED strips attached to the underside of the top edge or inside open compartments create nice light accents and enhance functionality, especially if you display decorative objects. Alternatively, indirect ceiling lighting can add atmosphere.

I would like to know the exact size of the room and whether you plan to use the back of the room divider for additional storage or only the side facing the living area.

poted schrieb:
I would like to know the exact size of the room and whether you plan to use the back of the room divider as additional storage or only the side facing the living area.

Good point! The apartment is about 35 square meters (377 square feet), roughly square in shape, and features an open-plan living and kitchen area. The room divider will be placed approximately in the middle to visually separate the kitchen area. Yes, I plan to actively use the back as storage. However, the back should not be fully open but rather closed or with doors, since it should not provide a direct view into the cabinets.

What do you think, would it be better to have the back completely covered with doors, or rather a combination of closed panels and open shelves? I worry that fully closed elements might make the space feel smaller.

Additionally, I am considering how to organize the mix between drawers and doors to keep the usage as flexible as possible (for example, dishes in the kitchen and tools in the living area). Thanks for your advice!

KELAGO schrieb:
However, the back side should not necessarily be open, but rather closed or fitted with doors, as there should be no direct view into the cabinets from that side.

In your case, I would recommend a combination of closed doors on the back side and open or partially open compartments on the front side. This way, the storage space on the back remains concealed, while the living area side feels more spacious.

For the division between doors and drawers, I suggest:
- Drawers at the lower section for frequently used items (dishes, cutlery, etc.)
- Doors for bulkier or less frequently accessed items

Another tip: If you install doors on the back, choose hinges that allow the doors to open 180 degrees to facilitate access next to the room divider. Also, keep in mind that some BESTA units have different depths – if you combine different depths, plan carefully to avoid any tripping hazards.

In summary, for an open yet functional separation without visual heaviness, a mix and accents are key; for example, through changes in materials (wood fronts, matte finishes) or moderately applied lighting.