Seeking an economical TV unit for your lounge? Today I’m revealing an IKEA BESTA TV stand modification for a media console that exudes luxury. I assembled our media center using two IKEA BESTA units, along with IKEA cabinet doors, legs, and shelves. I also acquired brass knobs to finalize the design. This was such a straightforward DIY endeavor, I’m uncertain if it truly qualifies as a modification!
Our finished IKEA TV console boasts ample storage since it is a spacious cabinet. Moreover, this unit is lengthy (94.5 inches wide) and fits perfectly beneath a sizable TV (ours measures 65 inches). Continue reading for an IKEA store shopping list, assembly tips for the cabinets, and media center styling suggestions.
Kudos to Sheila from Three Times a Home whose IKEA TV unit inspired this project!
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Planning an IKEA BESTA TV Unit Modification
The initial phase of any DIY project is to formulate a plan. This segment of the post will discuss IKEA TV console components, expenses, dimensions, and pickup advice.
IKEA TV Console Product List
These are the IKEA products you will require to construct the TV unit:
*You will need four sets of legs for a total of eight. My NANNARP legs are white, but it appears they now only provide aluminum. You could easily spray paint them either white or brass if you prefer!
Brass Knobs for a Distinctive Appearance
The precise antique brass knobs that I utilized are no longer obtainable, but these knobs on Amazon are quite similar! Knobs are an excellent way to customize your TV console. Here are more attractive options for cabinet knobs:
Total Cost of the IKEA TV Stand Modification in 2024
You might be wondering about the expense of this DIY IKEA TV stand. When we completed this project in late 2019, the total cost for all of the IKEA components was $390. By 2024, the cost for all of the IKEA components is $460.
Related:Painting IKEA Furniture for a Luxe Appearance
For a price comparison, TV units with a comparable aesthetics from CB2, Pottery Barn, and West Elm exceed $1000! Taking into account the generous dimensions and relatively low price, the IKEA BESTA TV stand suited our budget and space impeccably. I also appreciate that if a door becomes damaged or I wish to switch the legs, I can easily acquire new parts instead of replacing the entire console.
Width of the IKEA BESTA TV Stand
For reference, both TVs depicted in this post are 65 inches.
Another aspect to consider is the width of a media console in relation to your TV’s size. The consoles from other retailers (which I linked previously) measure between 72-80 inches wide, whereas our IKEA BESTA media console is 94.5 inches wide! It truly anchors our open concept living area and balances the sizable TV.
IKEA Store Convenient Pickup Suggestions
For this project, we utilized IKEA’s Click and Collect service. The kids and I remained in the vehicle while my husband entered and collected our order, which took only about 10 minutes!
Alternatively, you may compile a shopping list on the IKEA site to print (or view on your mobile) for shopping in-store. Just select “Add to Shopping List” when inspecting an item. Then, while perusing your list, you can choose your nearby store to verify that items are available and discover their location within the warehouse (aisle and bin number).
How to Construct IKEA BESTA Cabinets for a Media Center
The subsequent phase of this furniture endeavor is assembly. Allow me to encourage you: if I can manage it, so can you! Below, you will find suggestions for assembly. Most importantly, adhere to the step-by-step guide that accompanies each IKEA product. This is particularly crucial for ensuring the cabinet legs are installed properly for a stable TV unit.
How Much Time is Required for Construction?
I found the IKEA instructions to be quite straightforward. My spouse and I assembled the two BESTA frames and attached the legs within a couple of hours one evening. (The pieces are somewhat heavy, so having two individuals is preferable.) I then installed the doors by myself the following day, so overall I would estimate it took approximately four hours.
Two Individual IKEA BESTA Units
It is crucial to highlight that this console is comprised of two distinct cabinets. You could potentially connect the units if desired, but we chose to keep ours separate.
Creating Openings in the Backing for Cables
If you intend to use your BESTA units as a media console, you will need to carve small openings in the backing of the BESTA frames to permit cables to pass through.
First, consider where you will position your gaming systems or other devices that must be plugged in. Then, cautiously utilize a utility knife or a drill to form holes in the backing.
Installing the Central Shelves
Shelving is optional, but we opted to incorporate two shelves for each BESTA frame (four shelves total). This unit provides excellent storage for video game consoles, DVD players, films, books, board games, and more! The deep cabinet dimensions give ample storage space.
Affixing Hinges, Cabinet Doors, and Knobs
I secured the hinges, cabinet doors, and knobs myself in one afternoon while my daughter napped. Here are some insights:
Hinges: You need to determine whether the hinges will have a soft-close or a push-to-open feature. Since I was intending to add knobs, I opted for soft-closing.
Doors: The most challenging aspect is aligning the doors so they hang evenly. I reviewed the instructions but also engaged in trial and error 😉 You can also look for videos on YouTube!
Knobs: You will need to bore holes that are slightly larger than the screws. Drill from the rear of the cabinet door to safeguard the laminate finish on the door fronts. The doors are easy to drill through.
Secure the IKEA TV Unit to the Wall for Safety
Always anchor furniture to the wall to avoid tipping. Instructions and wall mounting gear will be included with your IKEA BESTA cabinets.
How to Adorn an IKEA BESTA TV Stand
Finally, the most enjoyable part: decorating! We have owned this console for quite some time (over four years), so it’s clear my design style has progressed. Which appearance do you prefer?
White IKEA Media Console with Coastal Styling
First, my initial IKEA BESTA TV stand decor. This was four years ago, so many of the exact items are no longer available, but here are some comparable options:
White IKEA TV Console with Minimalist Design
Secondly, this style displays matching table lamps and a 96-inch faux olive tree that remains available! Discover more exact and similar decor options here:
Painted Gray IKEA TV Unit with Cottage Theme
After several years, I painted our IKEA media console. You will find the primer, paint, and technique I utilized in that post! Explore this cozy cottage decor style here:
IKEA BESTA Television Stand with The Samsung Frame TV
Last year, I acquired the 65-inch Samsung Frame TVwhich offers this wall a unified appearance! Check out my candid Frame TV review! Other decorations are connected here:
IKEA BESTA Units with Seasonal Decor
Related article:Stylish and Elegant Halloween Decor Suggestions
Ultimately, here is our IKEA TV unit adorned with autumn and Christmas decorations. Do you enjoy seasonal styling?
IKEA BESTA TV Stand Modification: Final Thoughts
In summary, I hope you found this furniture undertaking motivating and beneficial! Don’t hesitate to ask a question below, and please tag me if you craft your own IKEA TV stands because I would love to see them.
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