ᐅ Which DIY upgrades work well with Ikea Hemnes furniture?

Created on: 21 Mar 2020 08:27
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sidra48
Hello everyone, I’m currently planning some DIY upgrades for my Ikea Hemnes furniture and wanted to ask the community: What types of do-it-yourself modifications or improvements work especially well with the classic Hemnes pieces? I’m particularly interested in ideas that emphasize the traditional Scandinavian style while enhancing the furniture’s functionality and appearance without losing its original character. Perhaps you have experience with custom paint finishes, new hardware, built-in lighting, shelf inserts, or creative handle designs? I look forward to your tips and suggestions, including examples of what has worked well or what might be less suitable.
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usbla
21 Mar 2020 13:01
[@Gilbert, post: w6f1x9, member: XXX]

I understand the approach, but DIY upgrades often provide an opportunity to tailor furniture to personal needs. For example, custom linings with felt or foam rubber improve drawer noise insulation and protect the finish. These small details increase comfort without making significant visual changes.
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bujufa
21 Mar 2020 13:28
As an additional tip: Installing adjustable furniture feet can help level out uneven floors while also enhancing the appearance of the furniture. This is especially worthwhile for Hemnes dressers, as their structure is otherwise quite close to the floor.
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sidra48
22 Mar 2020 07:47
Thank you for the tips so far, very helpful! I’m also curious if anyone has experience with combining Hemnes furniture with glass elements as additions – for example, glass inserts or cabinet doors. Does the style remain coherent, or does it become too fragmented? I’m equally interested in ideas for storage upgrades that don’t compromise the visual unity.
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REOHEINRIC
22 Mar 2020 08:35
Glass inserts are definitely an elegant way to give furniture a lighter feel. Frosted or lightly textured glass is recommended, as it complements the Scandinavian style while also providing semi-transparent privacy. Clear glass doors, on the other hand, can sometimes appear too cold depending on the interior style.

For optimizing storage, prefabricated organizing boxes made of wood or fabric in neutral colors are a good choice. They fit well in Hemnes drawers, helping to keep things tidy without affecting the character of the furniture.
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LOSAR
22 Mar 2020 09:11
Glass works well when it is understated. Simply apply frosted films to clear glass doors for a contemporary and stylish effect.
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Forrest
22 Mar 2020 09:55
I think these glass elements give Hemnes a fresh and airy feel! It’s a bit like looking into a bright Scandinavian summer house – and with small LED lights behind, it almost feels like a mini showroom.

Even better if you add natural wood shelves inside, for example – this keeps everything harmonious and lively. Storage can be easily enhanced with baskets or fabric boxes, which are both practical and cozy. Just experiment casually; it doesn’t have to turn into a museum.