The Weekly Interior by Caroline Lauzon

Creating a high-end home doesn’t always require custom cabinetry or expensive furniture.

Sometimes, the difference between something looking basic and something looking beautifully built-in comes down to a few finishing touches.

With trim, paint, upgraded hardware, lighting, and texture, these five popular IKEA pieces can be transformed into stylish features that look much more expensive than they actually are.

1. BILLY Bookcase Built-Ins 🪵

The IKEA BILLY bookcase is already a storage classic, but adding trim and molding can completely change its appearance.

Place multiple bookcases together, add molding around the edges, fill visible gaps, and paint everything in one cohesive color.

The finished result can create the appearance of floor-to-ceiling custom built-ins—perfect for a living room, office, or reading nook.

2. BESTÅ Media Console Upgrade ✨

The BESTÅ system offers plenty of opportunities for customization.

Try adding:

• Wood slats or textured panels
• Upgraded cabinet doors
• Modern handles
• A wood or stone-look top

These small details can transform a basic media console into a sleek entertainment wall that feels intentionally designed.

3. IVAR Cabinet Glow-Up 🌿

Because the IVAR cabinet is made from unfinished pine, it’s practically a blank canvas.

Paint it a warm neutral, stain it to highlight the natural wood, or add decorative legs and statement knobs.

For a timeless look, pair natural wood tones with simple hardware and minimal styling.

4. HEMNES Dresser Refresh 🖤

Already have a HEMNES dresser? You may not need to replace it.

A fresh coat of paint and new hardware can give this familiar IKEA piece an entirely different personality.

Try warm white, muted olive, soft greige, or another timeless shade, then finish it with simple brass or matte black hardware for an elevated look.

5. PAX Wardrobe Built-In Look 🤍

The PAX wardrobe is one of the easiest IKEA systems to make look custom.

Adding trim around the exterior, upgraded handles, and interior lighting can create a polished built-in closet effect without starting from scratch with custom cabinetry.

You can also customize the interior organization around your wardrobe needs to make the space just as functional as it is beautiful.

 

The Secret Is in the Finishing Touches

The IKEA piece itself is only the starting point.

What makes these projects feel custom is how you finish them.

Think:

Trim + hardware + paint + texture + thoughtful styling.

Keep the overall design cohesive with the rest of your home, and even an affordable piece can become a feature that feels intentional rather than temporary.

Real Estate Tip: Make Storage Feel Intentional 🏡

Thoughtful storage can also help a home feel more functional and finished when it’s time to sell.

Built-in-style shelving, organized wardrobes, and attractive media storage can help buyers visualize how efficiently a space can be used.

Just remember: if resale is part of the plan, keep permanent-looking upgrades relatively neutral and timeless rather than overly personalized.

Small Budget, Big Transformation

You don’t always need to spend thousands on custom furniture to achieve a high-end look.

Sometimes, an affordable IKEA piece, a free weekend, and a few thoughtful upgrades are all it takes.

The goal isn’t to hide that something came from IKEA—it’s to make it feel like it was always meant for your home. 🤍✨