How I Turned IKEA BESTA into a Custom Kitchen Extension
(No Renovation!)
After my IKEA BESTA kitchen extension went viral with 250K+ views, so many of you asked:
Now you can! 🤍
I created a full step-by-step PDF blueprint with:
• Exact BESTA frames & article numbers
• Full layout + measurements
• Natural oak panel details
• Cost breakdown
• Built-in finishing secrets
• FAQ from my viral reel
Everything you need to replicate the look exactly — without renovation.
Grab the full blueprint here:
"Can I get the exact measurements and layout?"
If you’ve ever wished your kitchen had more storage — but don’t want a full renovation — you’re going to love this.
My IKEA BESTA kitchen extension hack went viral on TikTok with thousands of views and new followers, and today I’m sharing why it works, how it transformed my space, and how you can get similar results with your kitchen too.
Whether you’re in a small apartment, a rental, or simply want a minimal and stylish kitchen upgrade, this idea is practical, affordable, and beautiful — no contractor required.
If you’re new here, I document IKEA hacks, minimal kitchen orientation ideas, and aesthetic home upgrades (subscribe for more!)
Why This IKEA BESTA Hack Works
Minimal + Functional
Unlike open shelving that just looks pretty, this extension gives you hidden storage, reduces visual clutter, and instantly makes your kitchen feel larger and more organized.
Custom Look Without Custom Prices
Adding custom panels to the BESTA units makes the system feel built-in and high-end. The panels visually read as cabinetry — not just stand-alone furniture.
Faster Than a Renovation
Professional renovations can take weeks and cost thousands. This hack takes a weekend and a fraction of the cost — the DIY kitchen upgrade most people can actually do.
What I Store in My IKEA BESTA Kitchen Extension (20cm Depth Storage Ideas)
One of the most common questions I get about my IKEA BESTA kitchen extension is:
"What can you actually store in it if it’s only 20 cm deep?”
The key is using BESTA as a shallow storage solution for everyday essentials — not bulky cookware.
Because IKEA BESTA cabinets are less deep than standard kitchen cabinets, they’re perfect for lightweight, frequently used items that don’t require full cabinet depth.
This makes them ideal for small kitchens, apartment living, or kitchen extensions where space is limited.
Here’s exactly what I store inside my 20-cm BESTA units:
Slim Pantry Storage
I use narrow pantry containers for:
• Rice, pasta, and grains
• Oats and baking staples
• Snacks and dry goods
Using uniform containers maximizes vertical space and keeps the cabinets organized.
Glassware and Wine Glasses
The shallow depth is perfect for:
• Wine glasses
• Everyday drinking glasses
• Smaller serving pieces
Because they aren’t stacked too deep, everything is easy to access.
Everyday Cooking Ingredients
I store produce and ingredients that don’t need refrigeration, such as:
• Onions
• Garlic
• Shelf-stable cooking essentials
This keeps my countertops clear while still making daily cooking convenient.
Daily Health Essentials
I also dedicate space for:
• Vitamins
• Supplements
• Small wellness items
Keeping them in a closed cabinet keeps the kitchen visually calm.
Placemats and Table Linens
Flat items like placemats and napkins fit perfectly in shallow cabinets —
something that often wastes space in deeper drawers.
Tips for Planning Your Own BESTA Kitchen Extension
Measure your wall height and width carefully before ordering units.
Add custom panels to unify the look with existing cabinetry.
Choose soft-close doors to enhance the feel of quality.
Keep styling minimal so the focus stays on clean lines and calm space.
How Much Did It Cost?
Here’s the real breakdown:
BESTA frames
Doors
Hinges
Shelves
Custom side panels
The total cost came to approximately €750.
For comparison:
A custom-built kitchen cabinet extension would easily cost €1,000–€2,000+ depending on materials and labor.
This hack gives you a built-in look for a fraction of the price.
Shop My Kitchen Storage & Decor
• Slim pantry containers
• Glass storage jars
• Drawer organizers
• Cake stand
• Cookbook stand
• Hanging plant
Some links on this site are affiliate links. I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Products are recommended for IKEA hacks and home styling inspiration.