As we increasingly spend more time working from the comfort of our own homes, having a well-organized and efficient workspace is crucial. A cluttered desk can be a major productivity killer, which is why maximizing storage space is essential. With this in mind, I’m excited to share twenty-one IKEA desk hacks that will help you increase your storage capacity, boost your workflow, and create a more harmonious working environment.
The IKEA Alex Drawer
The IKEA Alex drawers are a timeless choice for desk organization, offering a perfect blend of simplicity and functionality that seamlessly integrates into any home office setup. What’s more, they’re incredibly versatile – their straightforward design makes it easy to add personal touches and give them a unique flair.
For instance, incorporating stylish hardware like gold bars can instantly elevate the look, transforming these humble drawers into a statement piece that reflects your personal style.
Simple DIY IKEA Desk
Transform your space with a unique desk creation using Alex drawers and a simple yet clever technique. By balancing a plank of good wood across two drawer sets, you can create a functional workspace without the need for nails, bolts, or extensive construction. With just 10 minutes of effort, you’ll be enjoying your new DIY desk in no time!
The IKEA Trofast Desk
Transform your workspace by repurposing the IKEA Trofast desk into a versatile and efficient area. By doubling up as a toy storage base, this clever design enables you to seamlessly merge your office and your child’s playroom. This innovative setup allows for a smooth transition between work and play, making it an ideal solution for shared spaces.
Cube Storage Desk
Begin by repurposing an affordable IKEA desk top and two cube storage units. Strategically position the shelves at an equal distance from each other, then carefully place the desk top on top of them, effectively transforming the cube set into a custom desk. This DIY project’s simplicity lies in its adaptability – simply adjust the cube spacing to accommodate the desired width, making it possible to create a desk of any size that fits your unique needs.
Vattenkar IKEA Shelf
Elevate your workspace by installing an IKEA Vattenkran shelf on the wall behind your desk, providing an extra storage spot for your notebooks. This DIY-friendly hack requires minimal effort but yields great results. To give your shelf some unique character, consider adding a vintage twist with blue chalk paint and a touch of gold leaf. The subtle distressed look will add a dash of personality to your workspace.
Hanging Crayon Storage
Instead of repurposing hanging storage for herbs, consider utilizing IKEA’s clever S-hook storage rod to create an organized haven for crayons and pencils. This space-saving solution is not only functional but also versatile, making it perfect for both office and kids’ room settings. By getting creative with DIY desk organizers like this hack, you can add a personal touch to your workspace or play area.
Pull-Out Laptop Table
When operating in tight quarters, the lack of available workspace can be a significant challenge. In these situations, innovative solutions are needed to create functional workspaces. A pull-out drawer can be an ideal solution for those seeking to establish a home office without sacrificing precious floor space. This clever device operates similarly to a hidden table, allowing users to effortlessly deploy a working surface whenever the need arises.
IKEA Locker Desks
When designing a shared home office space for two, consider incorporating an extra-long desk with a creative twist. By combining an IKEA desk section with two lockers on either end, you can create sturdy and functional legs that add a unique touch to the overall setup. To further personalize the space, select locker colors that harmonize with your existing home office color scheme, infusing the area with a sense of personality.
The Malm Desk
By itself, a Malm drawer already boasts impressive storage capacity. But imagine taking it to the next level by combining it with an IKEA door – yes, you read that right, a door! The result is a one-of-a-kind desk that checks all the boxes. For added elegance, swap out the standard fixtures on the Malm drawers for some stylish upgrades. Simply pair them with an IKEA door and watch your workspace transform into the ultimate haven of productivity and sophistication.
IKEA L-Shaped Desk
While the L-shaped desk hack may seem similar to others on this list, it offers a unique twist: instead of requiring just a couple of screws, this design allows for greater versatility and flexibility. By creating distinct zones on your workspace, such as a designated area for preparation or a spot for computer work, you can tailor your setup to suit your specific needs and preferences.
Library Desk
Transform your home workspace into a functional and aesthetically pleasing area by incorporating bounded library shelves to create a dedicated working zone. The key to achieving a cohesive look lies in selecting a paint color that seamlessly transitions across all the various pieces, giving the illusion of a single, harmonious unit.
I suggest opting for a neutral shade, such as the one pictured, which will provide a calming backdrop for your workspace and enable you to effortlessly focus on your tasks.
Drawers on Drawers on Drawers
For those who find themselves torn between the need for ample storage and a desire for a clutter-free workspace, consider liberally incorporating Alex drawers into your IKEA desk setup. By cleverly utilizing the space beneath one of these classic units, you can effectively create two distinct desks while maintaining a tidy environment.
The key to this hack lies in repurposing the area below one desk as an additional drawer unit, allowing for maximum storage capacity without sacrificing visual appeal.
DIY Standing Desk
In recent years, standing desks have gained immense popularity, and it’s easy to see why. With our increasingly sedentary lifestyles, incorporating a piece of furniture that promotes standing while working can make all the difference. A creative way to achieve this is by repurposing IKEA Ivar shelves to create a standing-level desk. To complete the setup, add a high stool like the one mentioned above for those moments when you need to take a break and sit down.
Family Home Office
Create a collaborative workspace by providing ample room for everyone, including children, to focus on their tasks. To achieve this, consider setting up a T-shaped desk that offers generous space with some to spare. A unique feature of this design is the incorporation of two Alex drawer units at the top of the T-desk, which provides supplementary storage options. To further enhance the space, consider adding additional wall storage solutions to complete the setup.
Home Office Built-Ins
If you’re working from a limited home office space where every inch counts, consider building shelves into the wall behind your desk. This clever solution can help alleviate clutter and provide ample storage without taking up valuable floor space. It’s particularly useful when you don’t have the luxury of a dedicated office or shared a room with someone else.
A Simple Standing Desk
When space constraints limit the options for building a traditional desk with chair setup at home, a standing desk can be a practical solution. The GERTON adjustable legs make it simple to set up such a desk, offering versatility in terms of height. However, if you require a taller desk, consider repurposing a cabinet as the base instead. A DIY desk organizer would also be an excellent addition to enhance your workspace.
DIY Wall-Mounted Desk
Transform your workspace into a functional haven without sacrificing precious floor space with this ingenious wall-mounted desk solution. Not only does it provide ample room for working comfortably, but it also features built-in storage for keeping essential items within easy reach.
This stylish and sturdy design takes its cues from midcentury modern classics, allowing you to add your personal touch with a splash of spray paint in your preferred hue.
The STUVA Printer Cart
The perpetual struggle of dealing with appliances that are not properly plugged in is one many of us face. For those who share my frustration, particularly when it comes to printers, a solution exists. The STUVA printer cart hack offers an ingenious way to organize your printer, paper, and excess ink, making it effortless to pull the entire setup out from under your desk for easy access.
The Hidden IVAR Desk
As a self-proclaimed enthusiast of clever storage solutions, I’m thrilled to share my admiration for this ingenious desk design. Its ability to seamlessly integrate with an IVAR cabinet is nothing short of remarkable, effectively camouflaging the work-from-home setup. To achieve this impressive illusion, I recommend pairing it with a sliding rail for your keyboard shelf, such as this sleek and functional option.
No-Paint Colorful Drawers
For those who adore vibrant drawers without the hassle of painting, this solution is a game-changer. Simply apply adhesive vinyl to your drawer fronts and instantly give them a fresh new look. This clever approach offers a stunning transformation for IKEA drawers, and the DIY desk organizer featured alongside would be a delightful addition.
IKEA Hidden Standing Desk
The phrase ‘our tools shape us’ rings true when it comes to the impact of our workspace on our bodies. A desk that’s too low can lead to poor posture, which is why standing desks have become increasingly popular. By incorporating a standing desk into your daily routine, you can train yourself to maintain good posture and alleviate the strain that comes with sitting for long periods.
One great option is IKEA’s standing desk converter, which allows for seamless transitions between standing and sitting modes. With this versatile tool in your home office, you’ll be able to stay organized and focused while prioritizing your physical well-being.
