There are few Ikea pieces so simple and versatile that they're seemingly produced just so the creative bloggers of the world can find brilliant ways to hack them. Kallax shelves [1] (and their predecessor, the Expedit series) are one of the best examples of those pieces. There are seemingly endless ways to use them, decorate them, and transform them. We've rounded up our favorites ahead.
Sewing Sideboard
By simply positioning the Ikea shelves horizontally and adding some mid-century modern legs, this blogger created a sideboard table [2] that fit the mod style of the rest of her home.
Toy Storage
Playful pulls, handy drawers, and jet-black bins are not only great for corralling toys, but they also elevate this bookcase [3] into a true style statement.
Bar Cart
With its roller wheels and gold handles [4], this simple yet glam bar cart proves you needn't spend a fortune to get a high-fashion look.
Built-In Bench
This combination of Kallax shelves topped with a custom bench seat cushion [5] ($219) creates the illusion of a much pricier built in.
Upholstered Booth
Dining booths are a rising trend right now and, as this adorable DIY upholstered booth [6] proves, you can put one together without breaking the bank.
Sideboard
It's hard to believe that this funky sideboard [7] is made of three of Ikea's Kallax shelving units, and we love the craftiness of creating the zig zags by staining the wood.
Console
This Kallax unit gets Hollywood Regency style [8] with the addition of some drawers, stylish hardware, and legs.
Bookcase
You can get major results without major construction. Case in point: this hammer-and-nail-free neon-yellow shelving DIY [9].
Nightstand
With all its surface area and storage, the Kallax serves perfectly as a nightstand, especially when it's wrapped in wood [10] for a rustic-chic makeover.