Hello everyone, I would like to start a discussion to find out which DIY projects work best with Ikea Hemnes furniture. I plan to remodel or functionally expand some of the classic HEMNES cabinets and dressers, but I want to make sure the project is technically feasible and does not damage the furniture or affect its stability. I am particularly interested in creative modifications that are appealing both visually and functionally, for example shelving systems, room dividers, or personalized paint finishes and combinations. Perhaps someone already has experience with such projects or can recommend suitable material combinations, tools, or approaches. What DIY projects have you completed or can recommend with Ikea HEMNES furniture that are both achievable and add significant value? If possible, please also share important details regarding the implementation.
Ixgemar schrieb:
Does anyone have experience converting HEMNES dressers into work surfaces, for example as a DIY project to create a vanity or home office desk?This is definitely doable, but certain modifications are necessary when using it as a desk. The typical height of a Hemnes dresser ranges between 80 and 95 cm (31.5 and 37.4 inches), which can be a bit too high for a desk. Shortening the legs can help achieve an ergonomic sitting height. At the same time, legroom is often limited because the width of the dresser restricts knee space.
For stability, consider anchoring the furniture to a wall. If the desk is freestanding, adding a side brace or supplementary base structure might be useful. Installing a pull-out drawer for a keyboard or work supplies is possible, provided the drawer slides are adjusted precisely to fit the new dimensions. Finally, I recommend finishing the tabletop with a durable, easy-to-maintain coating such as polyurethane varnish.
kulau schrieb:
The typical height of an HEMNES chest of drawers is between 80 and 95 cm (31 and 37 inches), which can be a bit too high for desks. A solution is to shorten the legs to achieve an ergonomic sitting height.Additionally, when converting it into a desk, I recommend ensuring adequate legroom, with at least 60 cm (24 inches) width and 70 cm (28 inches) height to sit comfortably. If necessary, the internal drawers can be removed to create more space.
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barEsperan7 Feb 2021 12:57Wood panels from a hardware store are well suited for creating work surfaces on HEMNES dressers. Simple screws or clamping mechanisms are sufficient, allowing the furniture to remain flexible in use.
For those planning to use HEMNES furniture as a base for storage with seating functions (e.g., storage bench) or as a DIY desk: it is advisable to use reinforced mounting screws and metal brackets to prevent twisting and possible deformation under load. This is especially important for modifications that cause lateral or frontal stress. Additionally, using wood glue together with screws is a good preventive measure against wobbling.
Great input, thank you! Finally, I would be interested to know if any of you have examples of especially successful aesthetic treatments for HEMNES furniture – such as special paint techniques, finishes, edge profiles, or the use of fittings that significantly enhance the appearance of the furniture and are suitable for DIY?
There are several visual options to consider: for example, a combination of sanding and targeted paint stripping paired with a two-tone design, such as a dark-colored carcass and lighter doors or drawer fronts. Edgebanding can be added to smooth transitions and give the overall look a more professional finish. For fittings, I recommend systems with character, like vintage brass or copper handles, which can be easily replaced and enhance the furniture. Attaching metal furniture legs is also very popular to add a modern touch to solid wood pieces. It is important to thoroughly clean the wood before painting and, if necessary, fill pores with wood filler for a more even finish.
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