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Ikea Hacks: Built-Ins Around Fireplace
Fireplaces have always been the centerpieces of living rooms, providing warmth and a cozy ambiance to any space. But if you have a fireplace in your home, you might be wondering how to maximize the space around it. One popular solution is to create built-ins around the fireplace, adding both functionality and style to the room. In this article, we’ll explore how you can achieve the look of custom built-ins using Ikea hacks, to create a stunning focal point in your living room.
Why Built-Ins Around a Fireplace?
Built-ins around a fireplace can provide much-needed storage and display space. It’s the perfect way to make use of the often-empty space around a fireplace, while creating a cohesive and polished look. Whether you want to showcase your book collection, display family photos, or simply have extra storage for your living room essentials, built-ins are the perfect solution.
Ikea Hacks for Built-Ins Around Fireplace
Ikea offers a wide range of affordable and stylish furniture that can be easily customized to create built-ins around a fireplace. Here are some Ikea hacks that you can use to achieve the look of custom built-ins:
1. Billy Bookcases
The Billy bookcase from Ikea is a versatile and popular choice for creating built-ins. You can easily adjust the shelf heights to fit your needs, and the bookcase comes in different sizes to accommodate various fireplace dimensions. By lining up multiple Billy bookcases side by side and securing them to the wall, you can create a seamless built-in look around your fireplace.
2. Besta Cabinets
Besta cabinets are another great option for creating built-ins around a fireplace. These sleek and modern cabinets come in a variety of sizes and configurations, allowing you to mix and match to create a custom look. You can add doors, drawers, and shelves to customize the storage to your liking, and even incorporate a TV unit if desired.
3. Lack Shelves
If you prefer a more minimalist look, Lack shelves from Ikea can be a great addition to your built-ins. These floating shelves are easy to install and can be arranged in various configurations to create a customized display around your fireplace. You can mix and match different sizes and colors to add visual interest to the space.
Customizing Your Built-Ins
Once you have chosen the Ikea pieces you want to use for your built-ins, it’s time to customize and personalize them to fit your space and style. Here are some ideas for customizing your Ikea built-ins:
1. Paint or Stain
One of the easiest ways to make your built-ins look more custom is to paint or stain them. You can choose a color that matches your existing decor or go for a bold statement color to make your built-ins pop. By painting the back panel of your bookcases or cabinets, you can add depth and visual interest to the space.
2. Add Trim
Adding molding and trim to your built-ins can instantly elevate their look and make them appear more high-end. You can use crown molding, baseboards, or decorative trim to frame your built-ins and give them a polished finish. This is a simple and inexpensive way to make your Ikea pieces look custom-made.
3. Hardware
Upgrading the hardware on your Ikea built-ins can make a big impact on the overall look. You can easily swap out the standard knobs and handles for more stylish options that fit your aesthetic. Whether you prefer sleek and modern handles or vintage-inspired pulls, the right hardware can tie the whole look together.
Installation Tips
Once you have your Ikea pieces customized and ready to go, it’s time to install them around your fireplace. Here are some installation tips to ensure a seamless and professional-looking result:
1. Measure Carefully
Before you start installing your built-ins, make sure to measure the space around your fireplace carefully. Take into account the dimensions of the Ikea pieces you’ll be using, and plan out the layout to ensure a proper fit. It’s important to measure multiple times to avoid any mistakes.
2. Secure to the Wall
For safety and stability, it’s crucial to secure your built-ins to the wall, especially when they will be placed around a fireplace. Use proper anchors and screws to ensure that your pieces are securely anchored to the wall, and consider using L-brackets for additional support if needed.
3. Leveling
Using a level is essential to ensure that your built-ins are installed straight and even. Make sure to check the level frequently as you install each piece, and adjust as needed to achieve a professional and polished look.
Closing
With a little creativity and some Ikea hacks, you can easily create beautiful built-ins around your fireplace without breaking the bank. By choosing the right Ikea pieces, customizing them to fit your style, and installing them with care, you can achieve a high-end look that will transform your living room. Whether you’re a book lover, a collector, or simply in need of extra storage, built-ins around your fireplace are a stylish and functional solution.
FAQ
Can I use Ikea pieces to create built-ins around a gas fireplace?
Yes, Ikea pieces can be used to create built-ins around a gas fireplace, just as they can around a traditional wood-burning fireplace. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for clearance and ventilation when installing any furniture around a gas fireplace.
How difficult is it to customize Ikea pieces for built-ins?
Customizing Ikea pieces for built-ins is relatively easy and can be done with basic tools and materials. Painting, adding trim, and changing hardware are simple DIY projects that can greatly enhance the look of your built-ins.
Are Ikea hacks for built-ins around a fireplace cost-effective?
Yes, Ikea hacks for built-ins around a fireplace are cost-effective compared to custom-built solutions. With Ikea’s affordable prices and the ability to customize their pieces, you can achieve a high-end look without the high-end price tag.
