DIY Modern IKEA Kitchenette Transformation

Transforming a Blank Space with IKEA Kitchen Cabinetry

For some, having a blank page – or in this case a blank space – can be intimidating. Fortunately, that was not the case for IKD customer Ben from Dane, WI, who turned his new IKEA kitchenette into a modern and functional masterpiece.

“My wife and I wanted this extra space to host family and friends. So we needed a large bar height countertop, two undercounter refrigerators, and a clean look. We were lucky to have a blank space to work with and the time to work though the project,” he says.

So, with a budget of $15,000, Ben – who installed the IKEA cabinetry himself – combined IKEA SEKTION cabinetry framework with IKEA VOXTORP doors in Walnut along with MSI quartz countertops in Alabaster White to create a stylish, complementary space. In fact, he managed to stay well within budget for his IKEA products with a total cost of $6,392.64!

To that end, Ben says that he spent quite some time researching examples of kitchen designs on different design websites, such as HOUZZ. Ultimately, though, he needed expert design assistance to guide him through the process. He decided to partner with IKD for design guidance while he did the installation himself.

He offers: “When first starting to explore all of the options IKEA has to offer it was a bit overwhelming. By partnering with IKD I was confident they’d get me started on the correct path.”

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He selected IKEA cabinetry for a simple reason: “Big-box store cabinets didn’t have the design, flexibility and customization that I was looking for. IKEA cabinets offered all of the above at a better price point.”

Well, the results are a true work of art.

Let’s see how Ben’s kitchenette came together!

Kitchen Design and Installation Process

Ben is an experienced DIYer although he hadn’t ever done an IKEA kitchen design before.

“I wasn’t familiar with the product line, nor how to get started with the process. The design we came up with was largely our design, and we spent countless hours researching the door fronts and decided on the VOXTORP doors in Walnut from IKEA. We find IKEA offers great quality for the money, and we love the neat customization options.”

Ben does admit that he and his wife often second guessed their design decisions, however. Therefore, they recruited IKD to help them develop a layout that would work stylistically and functionally for their needs.

“Having an IKEA design expert from IKD provide additional insight was incredibly helpful for us to move forward through the process,” he says. “But as an avid DIYer I felt this was well within my realm to complete.”

And the design certainly was!

In fact, Ben says the installation process was seamless. He does mention that the plumbing and electrical was relocated to accommodate the IKEA kitchenette layout though.

“The overall experience of building the boxes was straight forward. Once you get the hang of doing one, they almost all go together about the same. It was a rewarding experience seeing everything come together,” he notes.

Features of the IKEA VOXTORP Kitchenette

This IKEA VOXTORP kitchenette features doors in Walnut to establish a sleek, modern look that still manages to be warm and inviting in a unique way.

Ben notes, “Since this wasn’t a main living space we were fortunate to be able to take our time with this project.”

Specifically, the U-shaped kitchenette features upper cabinetry floating above the sink area, providing storage space for glasses, dishes, or other items. The cabinetry also runs along the bottom perimeter with a tremendous amount of drawers running past the under-counter refrigerator, for instance.

The warm, dark tones of the cabinetry are complemented by the quartz countertops along the perimeter as well. The countertops are also carried along the two-tier bar peninsula area which provides seating options for guests to rest and enjoy a drink or snack while watching the large-screen TV hanging over the opposite wall.

In addition, Ben incorporated IKEA’s cabinet lighting system to showcase the VOXTORP cabinetry and illuminate the countertops.

“We are very happy to have purchased IKEA’s lighting system. We ended up going with under-cabinet lights and drawer lights. They were simple to install and are very functional. They also provide a custom high-end look,” he says.

Insights and Tips for Aspiring IKEA DIYers

With the unique perspective of an experienced DIYer and also a first-time IKEA installer, Ben wanted to share some helpful tips to other IKEA customers.

“My recommendation would be to build the boxes ahead of time, if possible, which could limit downtime – especially if you are replacing old cabinets. Aside from that, do your research because IKEA has so many great options,” he says.

He concludes: “Overall, the experience was great and something I’d do again. In fact, I’m already thinking about the next IKEA project!”