Before & After: This IKEA BESTA is now a statement piece with intricate cane details

From the KALLAX to the PAX, the wonderful world of IKEA hacks is endless. This week, our latest makeover crush takes us to Dubai, where a designer has transformed her BESTA unit into a fashionable statement piece. And the best part? You can recreate this exact look on your own flatpack. 

Kathryn Hawkes, the individual behind BESTA’s (opens in new tab) stylish sister is the co-founder of Fronteriors (opens in new tab), a UAE-based design label that produced and sells the weaved front, so you can transform your unit in exactly the same way. But what does the design process involve? Kathryn reveals what you need to know. 

IKEA BESTA before  

‘The IKEA BESTA frame [is] the easiest and most stylish IKEA hack,’ the designer explains. ‘Just buy the Fronteriors components  (doors, sides, and top) and add them to the IKEA frame.’

The instructions explain that alongside the unit, you will need a Philips head screwdriver (manual or electric) and a 4mm drill if you choose to add knobs. The BESTA hinges and screws correspond with the conventional IKEA installation guide. 

Armed with the cabinet, Kathryn begins by laying the cabinet on its back on the floor, before aligning the side panels, one at a time. The top, back, and bottom edges should align with the original frame. 

IKEA BESTA after

Kathryn then suggests screwing the 30mm screws from the inside, using the frame’s ready-made shelf holes as a guide. It is important not to leave a gap between the frame and the panel – so ensure the screws grip the panel tightly. You should also use two screws along the top area and two across the bottom.

You should do the same for the top, and ensure the weaved panel aligns with the rear. Then Kathryn suggests using the pre-made holes to fit the top panel with a drill and repeating the procedure until all the holes are complete. 

With all panels complete, Kathryn turns the unit back to the upright position and applies the statement doors, using the ready-dilled holes. Here, you should use your screwdriver to ensure the screws are permanently in place. 

You should then adjust your doors to the correct position and only play with the hinges after adding the top. 

To complete the unit, you can add accessories of your choice – whether that is a bespoke doorknob or a vase to crown the unit. Whatever you choose, this IKEA BESTA is the interior design idea your home needs.