ᐅ Ikea Besta – How to Successfully Integrate It into an Open Living Room Shelving Unit?
Created on: 26 Aug 2021 14:07
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PUFABIENNEP
PUFABIENNE26 Aug 2021 14:07Hello everyone, I am currently exploring how to best integrate Ikea Besta units into an open shelving system so that it is both functional and visually appealing.
Specifically, I am interested in ways to combine the more closed Besta components harmoniously with open shelving sections—without the overall design feeling disjointed or unbalanced.
Are there any proven designs or tips regarding color choices, module arrangement, and the use of decorative elements to create an open and inviting atmosphere? Also, how can the flexibility of the Besta system be best utilized through customization or additions?
I appreciate any suggestions!
Specifically, I am interested in ways to combine the more closed Besta components harmoniously with open shelving sections—without the overall design feeling disjointed or unbalanced.
Are there any proven designs or tips regarding color choices, module arrangement, and the use of decorative elements to create an open and inviting atmosphere? Also, how can the flexibility of the Besta system be best utilized through customization or additions?
I appreciate any suggestions!
Hey PUFABIENNE, great that you started this topic – I love the Besta system! 😍
My advice: colors are total game changers! For example, I paired white doors with open wooden shelves. This creates a nice contrast while adding warmth to the unit. Adding plants in the open compartments and small personal finds brings a lively, cozy vibe. And hey, you can arrange the modules flexibly to make the best use of your space!
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations – it’s fun and always sparks new ideas. Good luck, you’ll do great!
PUFABIENNE schrieb:
Are there any proven designs or tips regarding color selection, module arrangement, and use of decorative elements to create an open and welcoming atmosphere?
My advice: colors are total game changers! For example, I paired white doors with open wooden shelves. This creates a nice contrast while adding warmth to the unit. Adding plants in the open compartments and small personal finds brings a lively, cozy vibe. And hey, you can arrange the modules flexibly to make the best use of your space!
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations – it’s fun and always sparks new ideas. Good luck, you’ll do great!
Hello everyone, I find the approach very interesting, but when integrating Besta into open shelving, it’s important to consider not only the aesthetic aspect but also practical functionality.
Furthermore, the question arises how stable the structure remains with a combination of open and closed elements, especially when heavy items are placed in open compartments. Are there experiences on how to properly balance rigidity and flexibility? And what about the overall appearance if the doors have different surface finishes – could that easily look chaotic in an open shelving system?
I believe a balance between design and functionality is crucial.
vinpau schrieb:Colors are important, but only if they suit the spatial conditions. Sometimes too much contrast can have the opposite effect and create a visually restless surface.
Colors are absolute game changers!
Furthermore, the question arises how stable the structure remains with a combination of open and closed elements, especially when heavy items are placed in open compartments. Are there experiences on how to properly balance rigidity and flexibility? And what about the overall appearance if the doors have different surface finishes – could that easily look chaotic in an open shelving system?
I believe a balance between design and functionality is crucial.
As a supplement, I would like to share some technical details and design recommendations, as this topic offers a lot of depth.
First, it is important to carefully analyze the specific room situation: the room dimensions, natural light, existing furniture, and the intended use of the shelving unit. Based on this, it is advisable to plan the Besta style as modularly as possible. Besides the closed components (drawers, doors), you can intentionally integrate open compartments whose size and position are adapted to the room volume.
Stability is often underestimated: for larger or taller units, I recommend wall mounting, especially if open shelves or glass shelves are used. A combination of closed elements at the bottom and open ones on top often looks more balanced and ensures that the heavier load is at the bottom.
Regarding color combinations, matte surfaces are less prone to glare and easier to coordinate with decorations and other furniture than high-gloss fronts. Contrasting colors can be introduced very subtly, for example only as door colors in certain modules, while the rest remains neutral white or black. Decor should be used sparingly to maintain a balance between open and closed areas and create visual “resting points.”
One more technical note: adjusting TV sets or streaming devices in the open Besta area requires planned cable management, which should not be overlooked. Cable management accessories from Ikea or third-party suppliers can be integrated excellently to keep the open shelving free of cable clutter.
The question remains how your room size looks and which functions are especially important to you. A combination of different front types with alternating open and closed modules might make sense if you need different types of storage.
First, it is important to carefully analyze the specific room situation: the room dimensions, natural light, existing furniture, and the intended use of the shelving unit. Based on this, it is advisable to plan the Besta style as modularly as possible. Besides the closed components (drawers, doors), you can intentionally integrate open compartments whose size and position are adapted to the room volume.
Stability is often underestimated: for larger or taller units, I recommend wall mounting, especially if open shelves or glass shelves are used. A combination of closed elements at the bottom and open ones on top often looks more balanced and ensures that the heavier load is at the bottom.
Regarding color combinations, matte surfaces are less prone to glare and easier to coordinate with decorations and other furniture than high-gloss fronts. Contrasting colors can be introduced very subtly, for example only as door colors in certain modules, while the rest remains neutral white or black. Decor should be used sparingly to maintain a balance between open and closed areas and create visual “resting points.”
One more technical note: adjusting TV sets or streaming devices in the open Besta area requires planned cable management, which should not be overlooked. Cable management accessories from Ikea or third-party suppliers can be integrated excellently to keep the open shelving free of cable clutter.
The question remains how your room size looks and which functions are especially important to you. A combination of different front types with alternating open and closed modules might make sense if you need different types of storage.
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