ᐅ What are some decoration ideas for Ikea PLATSA shelving units?

Hello everyone,

I am considering making my Ikea Platsa shelving unit a bit more decorative and am looking for decoration ideas that are both practical and visually appealing. I am especially interested in design suggestions that take advantage of the modular nature of the PLATSA unit – that is, how to use the compartments differently, combine decorative elements, or create special highlights.

Perhaps you have creative ideas, tips on materials, color combinations, or inspiration on how to organize living space more effectively while decorating in a modern style.

Looking forward to your suggestions and experience reports!

Hi Johnpe,

great question, as the PLATSA shelving system offers many design possibilities due to its modularity. Here’s a brief guide on how I approach it:

- First, I organize the compartments based on their function: some for books, others for vases or boxes.
- For decoration, I intentionally use different heights and depths to create a dynamic look.
- Tip: Use baskets made of natural fibers or colorful boxes for storage to keep clutter out of sight.
- Plants add life and soften the clean lines of the shelving.
- Lighting: Small LEDs or string lights inside the shelving are great eye-catchers.

It’s important not to fill everything up, but to leave some space so the overall look doesn’t feel crowded.

If you want more details on materials or specific product recommendations, just let me know!

Hello Johnpe,

I would like to go a bit deeper into the technical aspects and details of decorating the PLATSA shelving unit, as its custom dimensions make it particularly flexible.

1. Surface combinations: You can easily combine the standard white or black fronts with wood overlays—for example, oak wood that is treated with water-based oil to ensure durability and to highlight the natural grain.

2. Attaching accents: Some users attach magnetic chalkboard surfaces or metal plates to the sides, which opens up versatile decorative and practical uses (notes, photos, magnetic decorations).

3. Interior organization: Using simple shelves combined with adjustable compartment dividers allows you to neatly organize small items while maintaining creative freedom.

4. Lighting: It’s best to integrate LED strips with warm white light that can be dimmed—this way, you can highlight accents and adjust the mood as needed.

I’m curious about your room’s characteristics (lighting, colors, size) – these factors can greatly influence which decoration options are suitable.

Thank you for the detailed ideas, they are really helpful!

I find working with plants especially interesting, but I’m concerned that they might dry out quickly or get too much water when placed on the shelf. Does anyone have experience with how to keep them low-maintenance and safe in such a setting?

Also, I sometimes find it difficult to strike a balance between keeping things organized and creating a decorative effect, especially when the shelf is also used for everyday storage. Tips on how to combine both aspects would be great, as I often feel overwhelmed by too much stuff.

warrenka57 schrieb:
I find working with plants especially exciting, but I’m concerned that they might dry out quickly or get overwatered on the shelf.

That’s a very valid point and a common challenge when designing shelves with plants. Here are a few tips:

- Use plant pots with built-in saucers to prevent waterlogging.
- Choose plants that require little water and are hardy, such as snake plants (Sansevieria) or pothos (Epipremnum).
- Place the plants in compartments that are not directly against the wall where light is limited.
- Alternatively, artificial plants or succulents can serve as low-maintenance decorations.

At the same time, you can place closed boxes or baskets under the more lively compartments to hide small items. Achieve balance by using different materials and color contrasts, which visually loosens the look and creates clear zones.

Additionally, a tip for color design: Especially with PLATSA, which is often kept monochromatic using white or black elements, adding deliberate color accents creates a very harmonious effect.

- This could be a vibrant vase in yellow or blue.
- Or books with colorful spines arranged by color – this adds structure and prevents monotony.
- Even subtle patterned films on back panels can create a great effect.

The overall result stays clear and organized without being boring.