Transforming your living space can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to creating distinct areas within a single room. The IKEA Ivar series offers a versatile and cost-effective solution for this very task. With a little creativity, these simple pine storage units can be repurposed into stylish room dividers that not only demarcate spaces but also add unique character and functionality to your home. In this article, we’ll explore some easy and inspiring IKEA Ivar hacks and ideas that will help you achieve a seamless blend of style and utility in your living area.
Chic Bohemian Ivar Room Divider
Transforming the IKEA Ivar shelving unit into a chic bohemian room divider is a stylish way to add privacy and aesthetic charm to your space. By incorporating natural textures, warm colors, and creative styling, you can create a functional yet artistic statement piece that embodies the free-spirited essence of bohemian decor.
How to Achieve It:
Materials Needed:
– IKEA Ivar shelving unit
– Rattan or wicker panels
– Jute rope or twine
– Assorted bohemian fabrics (e.g., tapestries, macram??)
– Wooden beads
– Hooks and screws
– Paint or wood stain (optional: in shades like terracotta, sage green, or sunny yellow)
– Sandpaper
– Measuring tape
– Screwdriver or drill
Steps to Create:
1.
Assemble the Ivar Shelving Unit:
– Follow IKEA???s assembly instructions to build the Ivar unit to your desired height.
2.
Prepare the Frame:
– If desired, sand the Ivar frame lightly to prepare it for staining or painting.
– Apply a wood stain or paint in warm, earthy tones. Allow it to dry completely.
3.
Attach Rattan/Wicker Panels:
– Measure and cut the rattan or wicker panels to fit within the shelves.
– Use screws or hooks to secure the panels onto the back or sides of the shelving to create a textured backdrop.
4.
Decorate with Fabrics and Macram??:
– Drape or affix bohemian fabrics and macram?? pieces to some sections of the divider using jute rope or twine.
– Experiment with layering different patterns and textures for a more dynamic look.
5.
Adorn with Wooden Beads:
– String wooden beads onto twine or jute rope and hang them across the unit or on individual shelves for added embellishment.
6.
Styling Tips:
– Incorporate potted plants, trailing vines, and personal trinkets on the shelves.
– Use the divider to separate different areas of a room while still maintaining an open, airy feel.
7.
Final Touches:
– Ensure all attachments are secure and stable.
– Arrange elements until you achieve your desired artistic and functional effect.
This bohemian Ivar room divider not only provides separation but also contributes to the overall ambiance with its textured materials and warm, inviting color palette.

Industrial-Chic Ivar Room Divider
Elevate your space with an industrial-chic makeover for the IKEA Ivar shelving unit. By combining metal accents, reclaimed wood, and sleek, minimalist design, this room divider not only serves as a functional partition but also adds an edgy, contemporary vibe to your home. This style is perfect for modern interiors that embrace urban aesthetics and love raw, unrefined materials.
How to Achieve It:
Materials Needed:
– IKEA Ivar shelving unit
– Reclaimed wood panels or planks
– Black metal brackets or strips
– Matte black spray paint
– Industrial-style caster wheels
– Screws and washers
– Drill or screwdriver
– Tape measure
– Metal mesh or wire (optional for additional texture)
Steps to Create:
1.
Assemble the Ivar Shelving Unit:
– Construct the Ivar unit according to the IKEA assembly guide. Decide on the height that suits your space best.
2.
Prepare the Frame:
– Use matte black spray paint to coat any visible wooden parts of the Ivar unit for a sleek industrial look. Let it dry thoroughly.
3.
Attach Reclaimed Wood Panels:
– Measure and cut reclaimed wood panels to fit horizontally or vertically across the back of the shelving unit.
– Secure these panels using black metal brackets for a robust and stylish touch.
4.
Install Industrial-Style Wheels:
– Add caster wheels to the base of the unit to allow mobility. This adds functionality and a true industrial feel. Use screws and washers to secure them safely.
5.
Optional Metal Mesh Addition:
– If desired, cut and attach metal mesh to certain sections of the divider to enhance texture and add a practical element of transparency between rooms.
6.
Styling Tips:
– Decorate shelves with metal accent pieces like wire baskets, factory lamps, or vintage tools.
– Incorporate neutral-toned books, geometric planters, and urban greenery like succulents.
7.
Final Touches:
– Check the stability of all components and ensure the wheels can lock in place.
– Adjust decorations and elements until you achieve your intended look.
The industrial-chic Ivar room divider seamlessly merges style with practicality, enabling you to delineate spaces while maintaining the modern, minimalistic allure of an urban loft.

Elegant Coastal Ivar Room Divider
Give your living space a serene and breezy transformation with the Elegant Coastal Ivar Room Divider. By using light, airy materials and a soft color palette reminiscent of the ocean, this divider can evoke the tranquil feel of a seaside retreat. Perfect for creating a calm atmosphere in any home, this divider uses subtle textures and nautical details to effectively separate spaces while maintaining an open, welcoming vibe.
How to Achieve It:
Materials Needed:
– IKEA Ivar shelving unit
– White or light blue paint
– Sandpaper
– Burlap or canvas fabric
– Driftwood pieces or faux driftwood strips
– Seashells and starfish embellishments
– Twine or fishing net
– Nautical rope or cord
– Hooks and screws
– Measuring tape
– Paintbrush or roller
– Screwdriver or drill
Steps to Create:
1.
Assemble the Ivar Shelving Unit:
– Follow IKEA’s instructions to build the Ivar unit, selecting the height that fits your space needs.
2.
Prepare the Frame:
– Lightly sand the frame to prepare it for painting.
– Paint the Ivar shelving unit in a white or light blue shade to capture the essence of a coastal getaway. Allow the paint to dry completely.
3.
Attach Fabric Panels:
– Cut pieces of burlap or canvas to cover sections of the unit for a soft, textured effect reminiscent of beach materials.
– Secure the fabric using hooks or screws, ensuring a taut fit against the back or sides.
4.
Add Driftwood and Nautical Elements:
– Attach driftwood strips horizontally or vertically on the frames for an authentic coastal touch.
– Use twine to hang seashells and starfish, or incorporate a decorative fishing net across some sections.
5.
Finish with Nautical Rope Accents:
– Wrap nautical rope around parts of the frame or use it to hang additional decorative elements.
– Place rope neatly on the shelves for added texture or use it as a tie back for draped fabric.
6.
Styling Tips:
– Enhance the coastal look with beachy accessories, such as glass bottles filled with sand, coastal-themed artwork, or miniature lighthouses.
– Include greenery with seaside plants like small palms or air plants for a natural touch.
7.
Final Touches:
– Ensure all elements are securely attached and the ensemble is stable.
– Adjust and rearrange decorative items to optimize the visual appeal and functionality of the divider.
The Elegant Coastal Ivar Room Divider brings the relaxing feel of the seaside into your home, creating a peaceful partition that beautifully blends style and function.

Rustic Country Ivar Room Divider
Embrace the charm and warmth of a rustic country look with the IKEA Ivar shelving unit turned room divider. By using a mix of natural wood stains, plaid patterns, and vintage-inspired decor, this idea effortlessly captures the essence of cozy countryside living. Perfect for bringing a touch of rural life into your home, this divider balances functionality with a welcoming farmhouse aesthetic.
How to Achieve It:
Materials Needed:
– IKEA Ivar shelving unit
– Wood stain in a warm, natural hue
– Sandpaper
– Plaid or checkered fabric
– Burlap ribbon
– Vintage-style hooks or hardware
– Mason jars
– Dried flowers or wheat stalks
– Old photos or vintage postcards
– Chalkboard paint (optional)
– Measuring tape
– Paintbrush or roller
– Screwdriver or drill
Steps to Create:
1.
Assemble the Ivar Shelving Unit:
– Construct the Ivar unit according to IKEA???s directions, choosing the height that suits your space.
2.
Prepare the Frame:
– Sand the frame lightly to ensure a smooth coat of wood stain.
– Apply a warm, natural wood stain over the frame, allowing the grain texture to show through. Dry completely.
3.
Incorporate Plaid or Checkered Fabric:
– Measure and cut the fabric to cover selected sections of the unit for a classic country look.
– Secure the fabric tightly to the back or sides using vintage-style hooks or hardware for a rustic touch.
4.
Add Burlap and Mason Jar Accents:
– Wrap burlap ribbon around sections of the frame or shelves to enhance texture.
– Attach or place mason jars on the shelves, filled with dried flowers or wheat stalks to evoke a farmhouse vibe.
5.
Personalize with Vintage Decor:
– Use old photos or vintage postcards for decoration by clipping them onto twine stretched across shelves.
– Consider painting a section with chalkboard paint for writable surfaces, ideal for notes or quotes.
6.
Styling Tips:
– Adorn the shelves with decorative items like small wooden crates, rustic signs, or antiqued lanterns.
– Add warm lighting such as string lights or candles in lanterns to enhance the cozy atmosphere.
7.
Final Touches:
– Ensure all elements are securely fastened and the piece remains stable.
– Adjust decorative pieces to achieve a cohesive and inviting rustic look.
The Rustic Country Ivar Room Divider seamlessly integrates a quaint, farmhouse appeal into your home, creating a comforting space division that echoes the serene pace of country life.

Modern Minimalist Ivar Room Divider
Create a sleek and contemporary room divider with the IKEA Ivar shelving unit infused with a minimalist aesthetic. Focusing on clean lines, neutral colors, and uncluttered design, this divider seamlessly separates spaces while maintaining a streamlined, fresh look. Perfect for modern homes, it embodies simplicity and functionality, making it an ideal piece for those who appreciate understated elegance.
How to Achieve It:
Materials Needed:
– IKEA Ivar shelving unit
– White or light grey paint
– Sandpaper
– Matte finish varnish
– Frosted acrylic panels
– Metal brackets
– Screws and screwdriver or drill
– Tape measure
– Level
– Minimalist artwork or prints (optional)
Steps to Create:
1.
Assemble the Ivar Shelving Unit:
– Use IKEA???s instructions to build the Ivar unit to your desired height and configuration.
2.
Prepare the Frame:
– Sand the frame lightly to prepare the wood for painting.
– Apply a coat of white or light grey paint for a crisp, clean foundation. Let it dry fully.
– Apply a matte finish varnish to protect the paint while maintaining a subdued sheen.
3.
Install Frosted Acrylic Panels:
– Measure and cut frosted acrylic panels to fit the back or sides of the shelving unit.
– Secure the panels using metal brackets to provide a modern touch and maintain partial visibility.
4.
Streamline the Shelves:
– Avoid clutter by carefully selecting a few functional and decorative items to place on the shelves.
– Consider including minimalist artwork or prints to enhance the modern vibe without overwhelming the visual space.
5.
Styling Tips:
– Incorporate functional items like storage boxes in neutral tones to keep a tidy appearance.
– Use geometric planters with simple succulents or pothos for a touch of greenery.
– Limit the color palette to shades of white, grey, black, and muted tones to reinforce the minimalist aesthetics.
6.
Final Touches:
– Ensure the frosted panels and all elements are securely fastened.
– Adjust and refine decoration to achieve a harmonious, balanced look without excessive ornamentation.
The Modern Minimalist Ivar Room Divider offers a sophisticated way to segment spaces with elegance, reflecting a calm and orderly environment that suits today’s contemporary homes.

Artistic Ivar Gallery Room Divider
Turn the IKEA Ivar shelving unit into a striking gallery-style room divider that showcases your favorite art and personal collections. By combining vibrant artworks, decorative lights, and a monochrome palette, this divider creates an artistic focal point that doubles as a functional partition. Perfect for art enthusiasts, this setup allows you to express creativity while adding sophistication to any room.
How to Achieve It:
Materials Needed:
– IKEA Ivar shelving unit
– Black or white paint
– Sandpaper
– Art frames or canvas in varying sizes
– LED strip lights or clip-on art lights
– Small accent sculptures or art pieces
– Hooks and screws
– Measuring tape
– Paintbrush or roller
– Screwdriver or drill
Steps to Create:
1.
Assemble the Ivar Shelving Unit:
– Construct the Ivar unit as per the instructions, choosing the height and configuration that best suits your space.
2.
Prepare the Frame:
– Lightly sand the frame to prepare for painting.
– Paint the frame in black or white to create a neutral backdrop that enhances the artwork. Let it dry completely.
3.
Curate the Art Gallery:
– Select a variety of art pieces, including framed paintings, photographs, or canvas prints.
– Arrange these art pieces on the shelves, leaving adequate spacing between each piece for visual balance.
4.
Illuminate the Artworks:
– Install LED strip lights along the edges of the shelves or use clip-on art lights to highlight the art pieces.
– Ensure lights are positioned to minimize glare and evenly illuminate the artworks.
5.
Integrate Sculptures and Accents:
– Add small sculptures or decorative art pieces to the shelves for a multidimensional feel.
– Balance the placement of artworks with these accent pieces to maintain a cohesive gallery look.
6.
Color Scheme:
– Focus on a monochrome palette with accents of metallics or colored art pieces to provide stark contrasts and highlight the artworks.
– Keep the surrounding decor minimal to allow the divider to be the room’s focal point.
7.
Final Touches:
– Ensure all artwork and lights are securely attached.
– Adjust lighting and art arrangements until you achieve the desired ambiance and visual impact.
The Artistic Ivar Gallery Room Divider merges functionality and elegance, providing a personal art showcase that adds character and a refined touch to any area in your home.

Retro Revival Ivar Room Divider
Add a dash of vintage charm to your living space with the Retro Revival Ivar Room Divider. By incorporating mid-century modern elements, bold geometric patterns, and inspired retro accents, this divider transforms your IKEA Ivar shelving unit into a nostalgic yet trendy centerpiece. Perfect for adding character and demarcating spaces, this design captures the essence of the 1960s and 70s styling, offering a vibrant throwback that fits seamlessly into modern settings.
How to Achieve It:
Materials Needed:
– IKEA Ivar shelving unit
– Vibrant paint in retro colors (e.g., mustard yellow, burnt orange, olive green)
– Sandpaper
– Geometric pattern wallpaper or contact paper
– Vintage knobs or handles
– Decorative vinyl records or retro-inspired accessories
– Retro fabric or curtains
– Hooks and screws
– Paintbrush or roller
– Measuring tape
– Screwdriver or drill
Steps to Create:
1.
Assemble the Ivar Shelving Unit:
– Follow IKEA???s instructions to build the Ivar unit to your desired configuration and height.
2.
Prepare the Frame:
– Lightly sand the frame to prepare it for painting.
– Paint the shelving unit in a dominant retro color like mustard yellow or burnt orange to set the tone. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly.
3.
Incorporate Geometric Patterns:
– Cut geometric pattern wallpaper or contact paper to fit the back panels or selected sections of the unit.
– Apply these patterns to create an unmistakably retro backdrop within the shelves.
4.
Add Retro Accents:
– Install vintage knobs or handles to give the divider a distinct, period-specific charm.
– Decorate the shelves with vinyl records, retro clocks, or vintage coffee canisters for authenticity.
5.
Include Retro Fabric or Curtains:
– Select retro fabrics or curtains to drape along some sections, using hooks to hold them in place for a playful and functional touch.
– Ensure the fabric contains classic retro patterns like polka dots or bold florals.
6.
Color Scheme:
– Stick to hues popular in the retro era such as teal, coral, or avocado green. Mix these colors in both the paint and accessories to reinforce the theme.
– Embrace contrasting colors to heighten the visual interest, capturing that signature retro aesthetic.
7.
Final Touches:
– Check the stability of all additions and ensure they are securely fastened.
– Rearrange and refine the decoration arrangement until you achieve a balanced look that highlights the retro features.
The Retro Revival Ivar Room Divider brings back the playful spirit of the ’60s and ’70s, injecting vibrant nostalgia into your home with a piece that’s both functional and fun.

Botanical Oasis Ivar Room Divider
Bring the tranquility of a lush garden into your home by transforming the IKEA Ivar shelving unit into a Botanical Oasis Room Divider. This nature-inspired design uses greenery, botanical prints, and earthy elements to create a serene space division that evokes the calming essence of a natural retreat. Perfect for plant lovers, this divider not only separates spaces but also integrates the fresh, revitalizing aura of nature directly into your home.
How to Achieve It:
Materials Needed:
– IKEA Ivar shelving unit
– Green or soft earth-tone paint
– Sandpaper
– Botanical or floral wallpaper or contact paper
– A variety of potted plants (e.g., ferns, succulents, ivy)
– Hanging planters or terrariums
– Wooden or ceramic plant pots
– Hooks and screws
– Measuring tape
– Paintbrush or roller
– Screwdriver or drill
Steps to Create:
1.
Assemble the Ivar Shelving Unit:
– Follow IKEA???s instructions to construct the Ivar unit to your desired configuration and height.
2.
Prepare the Frame:
– Lightly sand the frame to ready it for painting.
– Paint the shelving unit in a lush, forest green or a soft earth-tone to establish a soothing botanical foundation. Allow it to dry thoroughly.
3.
Apply Botanical Prints:
– Cut botanical or floral wallpaper to fit the back panels or sides of the unit.
– Affix these prints to create a garden-inspired backdrop that enhances the natural theme.
4.
Arrange Plants and Greenery:
– Place a variety of potted plants on the shelves, choosing species that thrive indoors and enhance a tropical vibe.
– Integrate hanging planters or terrariums using hooks to extend the green theme vertically.
5.
Choose Complementary Pots:
– Use wooden or ceramic pots to house your plants, bringing in natural textures that resonate with the botanical theme.
– Select pots in neutral or earth tones to maintain visual harmony.
6.
Color Scheme:
– Focus on greens, browns, and creams to reinforce the connection to nature.
– Allow the plants’ natural colors to add vibrancy and life to the overall composition.
7.
Final Touches:
– Ensure all plants are secured correctly and have adequate space and light.
– Adjust plant arrangements and decorative elements until you achieve a balanced, peaceful aesthetic.
The Botanical Oasis Ivar Room Divider serves as a functional partition that seamlessly incorporates the essence of nature into your home, promoting a vibrant, harmonious atmosphere that’s both calming and invigorating.

Vintage Library Ivar Room Divider
Transform your IKEA Ivar shelving unit into a Vintage Library Room Divider, perfect for bibliophiles and those who love a classic, scholarly ambiance. By incorporating antique books, leather accents, and ambient lighting, this idea not only adds a touch of nostalgia and warmth to any space but also serves as a functional divider that houses and displays your cherished literary treasures. This concept is ideal for creating an intimate reading nook or a distinguished study area.
How to Achieve It:
Materials Needed:
– IKEA Ivar shelving unit
– Dark wood stain or paint
– Sandpaper
– Leather straps or accents
– Bookends or vintage book holders
– Antique or faux antique books
– Vintage-style lamps or LED strip lights
– Fabric or leather baskets
– Decorative globe or compass
– Hooks and screws
– Measuring tape
– Paintbrush or roller
– Screwdriver or drill
Steps to Create:
1.
Assemble the Ivar Shelving Unit:
– Assemble the Ivar unit according to IKEA’s instructions, selecting your desired height and configuration.
2.
Prepare the Frame:
– Lightly sand the frame of the shelving unit.
– Apply a dark wood stain or paint to give it a rich, classic finish. Allow it to dry completely.
3.
Attach Leather Accents:
– Use leather straps as decorative accents across sections of the shelving or as supportive holders for books.
4.
Position Books and Accessories:
– Arrange antique or vintage-style books on the shelves, using bookends for support.
– Incorporate leather baskets to store miscellaneous items elegantly.
5.
Install Lighting:
– Position vintage-style lamps on some shelves for localized lighting.
– Alternatively, install LED strip lights discreetly to illuminate the shelving unit and highlight the display.
6.
Add Decorative Details:
– Include a decorative globe or compass to enhance the vintage library theme.
– Add small decorative items like ornate magnifiers or a quill for authenticity.
Color Scheme:
– Emphasize a classic palette with deep browns, rich maroons, and warm golds.
– Use the natural colors from the leather and books to add depth and texture.
Final Touches:
– Ensure all elements are securely placed and the arrangement is stable.
– Adjust and coordinate decorations until you achieve a cohesive vintage library ambiance.
The Vintage Library Ivar Room Divider not only provides privacy and structure but also creates a timeless sanctuary filled with character and literary charm.

Eclectic Global-inspired Ivar Room Divider
Infuse your space with a world of influences by transforming the IKEA Ivar shelving unit into an Eclectic Global-inspired Room Divider. By incorporating elements from various cultures???like Moroccan patterns, Asian textiles, and African art???you can create a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. This room divider not only brings functional space separation but also serves as an artistic focal point, weaving a tapestry of stories told through vivid colors, diverse textures, and unique artifacts.
How to Achieve It:
Materials Needed:
– IKEA Ivar shelving unit
– Paint in bold colors (e.g., deep blues, rich reds, sunny yellows)
– Sandpaper
– Printed fabrics from various cultures (e.g., ikat, batik, paisley)
– Ethnic-inspired art pieces or sculptures
– Decorative baskets and woven containers
– Hooks and screws
– Measuring tape
– Paintbrush or roller
– Screwdriver or drill
Steps to Create:
1.
Assemble the Ivar Shelving Unit:
– Follow IKEA???s instructions to assemble the Ivar unit, choosing the height and configuration that best fits your space.
2.
Prepare the Frame:
– Lightly sand the frame to prepare for painting.
– Paint the frame in a bold color or a combination of colors inspired by global designs. Let it dry thoroughly.
3.
Incorporate Cultural Fabrics:
– Cut pieces of printed fabrics to fit the back panels or sides of the unit.
– Secure the fabric using hooks or screws to create vibrant backdrops.
4.
Display Global Art and Artifacts:
– Arrange ethnic-inspired art pieces or small sculptures on the shelves.
– Ensure a balance of different textures and styles to reflect an eclectic mix.
5.
Enhance with Decorative Containers:
– Use woven baskets or ethnic-themed containers to store items and add textural contrast.
– Distribute these elements throughout the shelving to maintain an organized yet visually dynamic appearance.
Color Scheme:
– Focus on a palette that includes bold, rich colors such as deep blues, reds, and yellows, mixed with neutral and natural tones from materials like wood and basketry.
– Use colorful textiles and artifacts to introduce a vibrant, multicultural flair.
Final Touches:
– Ensure all elements are securely attached and stable.
– Adjust decorative elements and artifacts until you achieve a harmonious blend that reflects a global tapestry.
The Eclectic Global-inspired Ivar Room Divider transports you on a journey around the world, blending diverse cultural elements into your living space and creating a unique, story-rich environment.
