27 Easy IKEA IVAR Room Divider Hacks & Ideas

You can transform IKEA’s simple IVAR shelving into stunning room dividers that define spaces beautifully.

This untreated pine system offers endless customization possibilities.

The modular design adapts to any room layout or decorating style.

With basic tools and creativity, you’ll create custom dividers.

These 27 hacks will inspire you to maximize your space while adding storage and style throughout your home.

1: Create a Classic Natural Wood Divider

You’ll achieve timeless Scandinavian style by leaving IVAR shelves in their natural pine finish. Simply seal with clear polyurethane for protection.

The warm wood tones complement any color scheme beautifully. This approach works especially well in modern or minimalist interiors.

Add plants and books for styling. The open shelving allows light to pass through while creating visual separation between spaces.

2: Paint in Bold Statement Colors

You can transform basic IVAR units into dramatic focal points using vibrant paint colors. Choose hues that complement your existing decor palette.

Deep navy, forest green, or charcoal create sophisticated dividers. These colors add depth while maintaining the unit’s clean lines.

Use high-quality primer designed for pine wood. This ensures even color coverage and prevents bleed-through from the wood’s natural tannins.

3: Add Fabric Panels for Privacy

You’ll increase privacy by installing fabric panels between some shelf openings. Choose materials that complement your room’s textile elements.

Use tension rods or small hooks to hang fabric easily. This allows you to change materials seasonally or when redecorating rooms.

Consider linen, cotton, or lace for different effects.

Sheer fabrics filter light while solid materials provide complete visual separation.

4: Install LED Strip Lighting

You can create ambient lighting by adding LED strips to the back edges of IVAR shelves. This creates a beautiful glow effect.

Choose warm white LEDs for cozy atmosphere. The light reflects off displayed objects while providing subtle illumination for evening hours.

Hide power cords along the frame for clean appearance. Battery-powered options eliminate the need for electrical connections entirely.

5: Create an Asymmetrical Configuration

You’ll add visual interest by combining different IVAR heights and widths in one divider system. Mix tall and short units strategically.

This approach creates dynamic display areas. Use varying shelf heights to showcase different types of objects and collections.

Plan the layout on paper first. Asymmetrical designs require careful planning to maintain balance while creating intentional visual flow.

6: Add Cane Webbing Inserts

You can achieve trendy boho style by installing cane webbing panels in some shelf openings. This adds texture while maintaining transparency.

Cut webbing to fit inside shelf frames. Secure with small finishing nails or adhesive strips for easy future removal.

Mix webbing panels with open shelves.

This creates visual rhythm while providing both display space and subtle privacy screening.

7: Use as a Plant Display Stand

You’ll create a living wall effect by dedicating IVAR shelves primarily to plant displays. Include trailing and upright varieties for interest.

Add grow lights if natural light is limited. This ensures your plants thrive while creating a stunning green focal point.

Include drip trays to protect shelves from water damage. Choose plants with similar light and water requirements for easier maintenance.

8: Install Sliding Barn Door Panels

You can add moveable privacy sections by mounting sliding panels that traverse IVAR frames horizontally. Use barn door hardware for operation.

This creates flexible privacy options. Slide panels open for connectivity or closed for separation as your needs change.

Choose lightweight materials like thin plywood or MDF. Heavy panels may stress the IVAR frame beyond its design capacity.

9: Create a Home Office Separator

You’ll define workspace boundaries by using IVAR as a stylish office divider. Include specialized storage for work supplies and equipment.

Add cork boards or magnetic panels for organization. These functional elements help create an efficient workspace within larger rooms.

Include a small desk area if space allows. Some IVAR configurations can incorporate workspace surfaces directly into the divider design.

10: Add Woven Basket Storage

You can combine open display with hidden storage using coordinating baskets in various shelf openings. Choose natural materials for cohesion.

Baskets hide clutter while maintaining the room divider’s decorative appeal. Label them discretely for easy organization and retrieval.

Mix basket sizes based on storage needs. Include some open shelves for display items and books to maintain visual interest.

11: Install Frosted Acrylic Panels

You’ll create modern privacy while maintaining light flow using frosted acrylic sheets cut to fit shelf openings. This adds contemporary sophistication.

Acrylic panels are lightweight and easy to install. They provide privacy without blocking natural light completely like solid materials.

Clean with microfiber cloths to prevent scratching. Avoid harsh chemicals that might damage the frosted finish over time.

12: Create a Gallery Wall Display

You can showcase artwork by using IVAR shelves as a three-dimensional gallery system. Include picture ledges and easels for rotating displays.

This approach allows easy artwork changes. Rotate pieces seasonally or when acquiring new art for fresh room appearances.

Include proper lighting to highlight displayed pieces. Small picture lights or track lighting enhance the gallery effect dramatically.

13: Add Industrial Pipe Accents

You’ll achieve industrial style by incorporating black iron pipes as design elements within the IVAR frame. Use pipes as hanging rods or decorative details.

This contrast between wood and metal creates visual interest. The industrial elements add edge to the otherwise soft wood appearance.

Include pipe hooks for hanging plants or accessories. This adds functional storage while reinforcing the industrial design theme effectively.

14: Install Mirror Panels

You can reflect light and create depth illusions using mirrors cut to fit some IVAR shelf openings. This makes rooms appear larger.

Choose lightweight acrylic mirrors for safety. These won’t shatter if accidentally bumped and are easier to install than glass alternatives.

Position mirrors to reflect attractive room views. Avoid placing them where they might create glare or reflect unattractive areas.

15: Create a Breakfast Bar Extension

You’ll add dining space by extending IVAR units with a breakfast bar surface. This works well between kitchens and living areas.

Include bar stools for casual dining options. This creates an eating area without requiring a full dining room setup.

Ensure proper support for the extended surface. Add brackets or additional legs to handle the weight of food and dining activities.

16: Add Vintage Window Frames

You can incorporate architectural salvage by installing old window frames within IVAR openings. This adds character and historical charm.

Choose windows that fit standard IVAR dimensions. Sand and paint frames to coordinate with your overall color scheme and style.

Remove glass for safety if frames will be frequently handled. The empty frames still provide visual interest and character.

17: Install Chalkboard Surfaces

You’ll create interactive elements by adding chalkboard paint or panels to some shelf sections. This works especially well in kids’ areas.

Include chalk storage and erasers nearby. Keep these supplies accessible but contained to prevent mess in surrounding areas.

Consider magnetic chalkboard paint for added functionality. This allows both writing and magnetic storage for papers and lightweight items.

18: Create Curated Color Blocking

You can achieve modern art effects by painting individual shelf sections in different coordinating colors. Plan the color pattern carefully for best results.

Use painter’s tape for clean lines between colors. This creates professional-looking results that appear intentionally designed rather than haphazard.

Choose colors from the same family for harmony. Monochromatic schemes work especially well for sophisticated color-blocking effects.

19: Add Rope or Macrame Details

You’ll introduce bohemian texture by wrapping IVAR posts with natural rope or adding macrame panels between shelf openings.

This softens the geometric lines while adding organic texture. Natural fibers complement the pine wood beautifully for cohesive styling.

Secure rope with strong adhesive or small tacks. Ensure all attachments are secure to prevent unraveling during normal use.

20: Install Wine Bottle Storage

You can create a sophisticated bar area by modifying IVAR shelves to hold wine bottles horizontally. Add custom wooden inserts for bottle support.

This transforms the divider into functional wine storage. Include space for glasses and bar accessories for complete entertaining functionality.

Consider temperature and light exposure for wine storage. Position away from heat sources and direct sunlight to protect wine quality.

21: Add Upholstered Seat Cushions

You’ll create casual seating by adding bench cushions to lower IVAR shelves. This transforms storage into functional furniture.

Choose weather-resistant fabrics if moisture might be an issue. Removable covers allow for easy cleaning and seasonal updates.

Ensure shelf strength can support seating weight. Add additional brackets underneath if necessary for safety and stability.

22: Create a Pet Station

You can design a dedicated pet area using IVAR as a divider that includes food storage, toy organization, and sleeping spaces.

Include low openings for pet access. This creates a contained area while maintaining connection to the rest of the living space.

Add washable surfaces for easy cleaning. Pet areas require materials that can withstand spills and frequent washing.

23: Install Pegboard Backing

You’ll maximize organization potential by adding pegboard panels to the back of IVAR units. This creates tool or supply storage.

Paint pegboard to match or contrast with the wood frame. This creates intentional design cohesion rather than an afterthought appearance.

Include appropriate hooks and accessories for your storage needs. Pegboard systems offer incredible flexibility for changing organization requirements.

24: Add Library Card Catalog Style

You can create vintage charm by installing small drawer units within IVAR openings. Use old card catalog drawers or similar vintage pieces.

This adds hidden storage with historical character. Small drawers work perfectly for organizing small items like office supplies or collections.

Label drawers with vintage-style tags.

This enhances the library aesthetic while maintaining organization and easy access to contents.

25: Create a Murphy Desk Setup

You’ll maximize space efficiency by installing a fold-down desk surface within the IVAR frame. This provides workspace that disappears when not needed.

Include proper support brackets rated for desk weight. Safety is crucial when creating surfaces that support computers and work materials.

Add cord management for electronics. Hidden cable runs maintain the clean appearance when the desk is both open and closed.

26: Install Geometric Pattern Inserts

You can add modern artistic elements by creating geometric patterns within shelf openings using wood strips or metal elements.

Plan patterns that complement your room’s overall design style. Geometric elements should enhance rather than compete with existing architectural features.

Paint patterns in contrasting colors for maximum impact. This creates focal points that draw attention to the divider as an art piece.

27: Add Seasonal Display Rotation

You’ll keep your space fresh by designing IVAR displays that change with seasons or holidays.

Plan flexible arrangements that accommodate different decorative themes.

Include storage for off-season decorations within the unit itself. This keeps everything organized while allowing easy seasonal transformations.

Use neutral base elements that work with any seasonal palette.

This allows decorative changes without requiring complete reorganization of the basic structure.

Conclusion

Your IVAR room divider becomes a custom design element that perfectly reflects your style while providing practical storage and space definition.