ᐅ IKEA BESTA DIY – How Do I Build a Combination with Different Depths?
Created on: 8 Oct 2016 19:43
G
gemimauHello everyone, I have a question about IKEA Besta and hope that someone here has experience with custom combinations. I am planning to build a combination of BESTA cabinets, but some components should have different depths – for example, some carcasses 40cm (16 inches) deep, others only 20cm (8 inches) – so they can be mounted on the wall while still making the best use of storage space. My question is how to best design and connect such a combination to ensure stability without compromising the appearance. Are there special connectors, extensions, or tricks for this? I am also interested in how different depths affect front panels and door installation, especially with varying cabinet sizes. I would appreciate any help that explains in detail what needs to be considered and hope for practical tips!
Hello gemimau,
your question about an IKEA BESTA combination with different depths is very interesting, and many users encounter this topic with custom furniture projects. I will explain in detail, as some important points need to be considered.
First, you should know that the BESTA series is normally supplied with fixed carcass depths, usually 20 cm, 40 cm, and 60 cm (8 inches, 16 inches, and 24 inches). When combining different depths, you need to keep a few construction aspects in mind:
- Connection: Since IKEA does not offer special connectors for different depths, it is advisable to join the carcasses using additional brackets or sturdy wood/metal connectors. This prevents the units from shifting against each other.
- Load: Especially when deeper units are mounted on shallower ones, a greater lever effect occurs, which stresses the wall fixing more. Make sure to use stable and preferably multiple wall anchors!
- Front installation: Doors and drawers can usually be installed as intended, but due to varying depths, the top panels and side edges often change. If you keep the front heights and widths consistent, the differing depths usually look harmonious.
Practical tips:
- Measure before visiting the hardware store! Plan the exact space, including wall clearance if you intend to hang the units.
- Use cross connectors, for example adjustable brackets or specially drilled holes in the back panel, to keep everything stable.
- If it fits the look, you can even leave shadow gaps on shallower carcasses, which can create a very modern effect.
Finally, have you already done the budget planning? Some additional parts are not original IKEA, but are definitely recommended for the project.
One more question for you: What is your goal with the different depths, more storage in specific areas or primarily design reasons?
your question about an IKEA BESTA combination with different depths is very interesting, and many users encounter this topic with custom furniture projects. I will explain in detail, as some important points need to be considered.
First, you should know that the BESTA series is normally supplied with fixed carcass depths, usually 20 cm, 40 cm, and 60 cm (8 inches, 16 inches, and 24 inches). When combining different depths, you need to keep a few construction aspects in mind:
- Connection: Since IKEA does not offer special connectors for different depths, it is advisable to join the carcasses using additional brackets or sturdy wood/metal connectors. This prevents the units from shifting against each other.
- Load: Especially when deeper units are mounted on shallower ones, a greater lever effect occurs, which stresses the wall fixing more. Make sure to use stable and preferably multiple wall anchors!
- Front installation: Doors and drawers can usually be installed as intended, but due to varying depths, the top panels and side edges often change. If you keep the front heights and widths consistent, the differing depths usually look harmonious.
Practical tips:
- Measure before visiting the hardware store! Plan the exact space, including wall clearance if you intend to hang the units.
- Use cross connectors, for example adjustable brackets or specially drilled holes in the back panel, to keep everything stable.
- If it fits the look, you can even leave shadow gaps on shallower carcasses, which can create a very modern effect.
Finally, have you already done the budget planning? Some additional parts are not original IKEA, but are definitely recommended for the project.
One more question for you: What is your goal with the different depths, more storage in specific areas or primarily design reasons?
TUELBA schrieb:
One more question for you: What is your goal with the depths, more storage in certain areas or more design reasons?Thank you for the detailed answer! My main goal is actually a combination of function and aesthetics. I want to create more storage, but also in areas where less depth is available, the design shouldn’t become unnecessarily wide. In addition, the furniture piece should be wall-mounted because I want to free up more floor space underneath. Therefore, varying depths should balance storage capacity and compactness. Stability is of course especially important, especially with wall mounting. That’s why I am also interested in good techniques to securely connect the different modules, so that ultimately nothing wobbles or warps.
Hello gemimau,
your project is quite ambitious, but with some structured steps it’s definitely doable. Here is a brief guide on how to build a BESTA combination with different depths:
1. Planning:
- Check which module sizes IKEA currently offers (usually there are depths of 20, 40, and 60 cm (8, 16, and 24 inches)).
- Lay out your combination on the floor or simulate it digitally to know the exact dimensions and fit.
2. Wall mounting:
- Make sure the main load-bearing elements are hung directly on the wall with at least 3 reliable anchor points per module.
- Metal brackets (e.g., angle brackets from a hardware store) help to keep the modules securely connected.
3. Connecting the modules:
- When combining different depths, screws through the back panel are often not sufficient, as IKEA’s back panels are sometimes only thin particleboard.
- It’s better to use connecting brackets between side panels or small wooden dowels plus glue to ensure a firm hold.
4. Front installation:
- Doors and drawers can be mounted normally if the front surfaces remain the same height and width.
- With varying depths, the doors may need to be adjusted (e.g., using longer hinges) to ensure proper closing.
5. Accessories and finishing touches:
- You might be able to visually balance different depths using cover strips or fascia panels.
Common pitfalls:
- Underestimating load on connection points
- Uneven front surfaces looking inconsistent
- Missing wall attachment can lead to disaster
If you like, I can assist you in more detail if you provide measurements and your desired combination. That way, specific screw types and fastenings can be recommended.
your project is quite ambitious, but with some structured steps it’s definitely doable. Here is a brief guide on how to build a BESTA combination with different depths:
1. Planning:
- Check which module sizes IKEA currently offers (usually there are depths of 20, 40, and 60 cm (8, 16, and 24 inches)).
- Lay out your combination on the floor or simulate it digitally to know the exact dimensions and fit.
2. Wall mounting:
- Make sure the main load-bearing elements are hung directly on the wall with at least 3 reliable anchor points per module.
- Metal brackets (e.g., angle brackets from a hardware store) help to keep the modules securely connected.
3. Connecting the modules:
- When combining different depths, screws through the back panel are often not sufficient, as IKEA’s back panels are sometimes only thin particleboard.
- It’s better to use connecting brackets between side panels or small wooden dowels plus glue to ensure a firm hold.
4. Front installation:
- Doors and drawers can be mounted normally if the front surfaces remain the same height and width.
- With varying depths, the doors may need to be adjusted (e.g., using longer hinges) to ensure proper closing.
5. Accessories and finishing touches:
- You might be able to visually balance different depths using cover strips or fascia panels.
Common pitfalls:
- Underestimating load on connection points
- Uneven front surfaces looking inconsistent
- Missing wall attachment can lead to disaster
If you like, I can assist you in more detail if you provide measurements and your desired combination. That way, specific screw types and fastenings can be recommended.
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