15 Brilliant IKEA Hacks to Maximize Space in Tiny European Apartments

 Small Space Magic: 15 IKEA Hacks for Tiny European-Style Apartments 

My London flat is 420 square feet. Yes, you read that right—420 square feet for £1,850 a month. 

When I first moved in, I felt like I was living in a shoebox. My bed touched one wall, my kitchen counter was barely 3 feet long, and my "living room" could fit exactly one small sofa. I'd scroll through Instagram seeing those gorgeous Parisian apartments and Copenhagen lofts thinking, "How do they make small spaces look so effortlessly chic?" 

Then I discovered the secret: IKEA hacks. 

Not the furniture as-is from the showroom (though IKEA's great for that too), but clever modifications and creative combinations that transform basic pieces into custom solutions. After two years of trial, error, and a LOT of Allen wrenches, I've turned my tiny flat into something that feels three times its actual size. 

Here's what I've learned: European apartment living requires a different mindset than the sprawling American homes with walk-in closets and three-car garages. In cities like London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Berlin, where the average studio costs $1,800-2,500/month and measures just 300-500 square feet, every inch matters. 

If you're dealing with a tiny space—whether in Europe or one of America's expensive urban markets like NYC, San Francisco, or Boston—these 15 IKEA hacks will revolutionize how you live. Let me show you exactly what worked for me. 

 Why IKEA is Perfect for Small Space Living 

Before we dive into the hacks, let me explain why IKEA is THE solution for tiny apartments. 

It's modular by design. Unlike traditional furniture stores selling chunky, oversized pieces, IKEA builds furniture designed for small spaces. Their KALLAX units, PAX wardrobes, and HEMNES series are built to be stackable, wall-mounted, or reconfigured. 

It's affordable. When you're paying $2,000+ for rent in a city center, dropping another $3,000 on custom built-ins isn't realistic. I've created thousands of dollars worth of custom-looking furniture for under $800. 

It's hackable. The simple Scandinavian designs are a blank canvas. Add legs, change hardware, stack units differently, spray paint—the possibilities are endless. 

My neighbor spent £4,500 on a custom Murphy bed. I created the same functionality with IKEA pieces for £320. Both work perfectly. Mine just didn't drain my savings account. 

 15 Game-Changing IKEA Hacks for Tiny Apartments 

Here are the exact hacks that transformed my 420-square-foot flat into a functional, stylish home. I've listed them by impact—starting with the biggest space-savers. 

 1. The KALLAX Room Divider with Hidden Storage 

What you need: 

• KALLAX 4x4 unit (around $140) 
• 8 storage boxes that fit KALLAX cubes 
• Optional: castors for easy movement 

This was my first hack and honestly the most transformative. I placed the KALLAX perpendicular to my wall, creating an instant "bedroom" zone separate from my living area. The open-back design means it doesn't block light, but it creates just enough visual separation to feel like two rooms. 

Face the boxes toward the bedroom side for clothes and linens. The living room side becomes open display shelves for books and plants. Total cost: $210. In Manhattan, a custom room divider like this would run $1,200-1,800 minimum. 

Pro tip: Add LED strip lights ($15) to the top shelf. It creates ambient lighting for both zones and makes the whole space feel more sophisticated. 

2. PAX Wardrobe Turned Murphy Bed Alternative 

Murphy beds cost $2,000-5,000. My PAX hack cost $425 and does essentially the same thing. 

What you need: 

• Two PAX frame units, 39x93" ($200 each) 
• Platform bed base that fits between them 
• Soft-close doors or open shelving 

Position the two PAX units on either side of your bed. Suddenly you have floor-to-ceiling storage flanking your sleeping area, creating a built-in bedroom nook. Add shelves inside for clothes, shoes, bags—everything. The units are 23" deep, perfect for hanging clothes. 

My friend in Amsterdam did this in her 380-square-foot studio. It completely eliminated the need for a separate dresser or closet space, freeing up 15 square feet for a small dining table. 

 3. LACK Side Tables Stacked into Media Console 

The LACK side table costs $9.99. NINE DOLLARS. When you stack three of them with the legs removed on two, you create a custom-sized media console or entryway table for under $30. 

I spray-painted mine in Farrow & Ball's 'Railings' (that moody charcoal) for $12. Looks like a $400 West Elm console. Total investment: $42. 

Assembly trick: Use wood glue between the tables and L-brackets on the back to secure them to the wall. The hollow core construction makes this surprisingly sturdy if mounted properly. 

 4. IVAR Shelving System as Customizable Closet 

If you don't have a closet (common in European apartments), the IVAR system is your best friend. It's unfinished pine, so you can stain, paint, or leave it natural. 

My setup: 

• Two 35" wide sections ($145 total) 
• Multiple shelf heights for versatility 
• Hanging rod across the middle section 
• Storage boxes on top shelf for seasonal items 

The beauty of IVAR? It's completely adjustable. When I got more winter coats, I moved the shelves around in 10 minutes. Try doing that with a built-in closet. 

 5. HEMNES Daybed as Sofa + Guest Bed + Storage 

This is the triple-threat piece every small apartment needs. The HEMNES daybed ($329) functions as: 

• Daily seating (works as a sofa) 
• Guest bed (pulls out to queen size) 
• Storage (three large drawers underneath) 

I keep my guest bedding in those drawers. When friends visit, I pull out the trundle, and boom—instant queen bed. During the day, pile it with cushions and it's a perfectly functional sofa. 

In Berlin, my colleague uses this as her primary bed (saves floor space) and keeps all her out-of-season clothes in the drawers. The versatility is unmatched. 

6. EKBY Shelf Brackets as Nightstands 

Floor space is sacred in small apartments. Wall-mounted nightstands free up those precious inches around your bed. 

Materials: 

• Two EKBY brackets ($5 each) 
• LACK wall shelf or cut wood board 
• Small LED reading light (optional) 

Mount them at the exact height you need—no more standard nightstand heights that don't quite work. I added a phone charging station underneath for $8 from Amazon. Looks custom, costs $25 total. 

This hack alone freed up 4 square feet in my bedroom. That's enough space for a small chair or extra storage basket. 

 7. BILLY Bookcase Converted to Kitchen Pantry 

European apartments often have kitchens the size of American closets. The classic BILLY bookcase ($79) becomes a game-changing pantry. 

Buy a narrow BILLY (15" wide), add extra shelves, and position it next to your kitchen. Store dry goods, canned items, small appliances—everything that doesn't fit in your three cabinets. 

Organization tip: Use clear storage containers from IKEA's 365+ series. Label everything. My pantry looks like something from a magazine, and I always know exactly what I have before grocery shopping. 

 8. RÅSKOG Cart as Mobile Everything 

The RÅSKOG utility cart ($39.99) is ridiculously versatile. I've used mine as: 

• Kitchen island/prep station 
• Bar cart for entertaining 
• Bathroom storage (holds toiletries, towels) 
• Office supply station 
• Plant stand 

The wheels let you roll it wherever you need it. Currently, mine lives next to my tiny kitchen counter as extra prep space. When friends come over, I wheel it to the living area as a bar cart. 

My sister in New York uses three of these—one in the kitchen, one in the bathroom, one as a changing station for her baby. For $120 total, she gained so much functional storage. 

9. LACK Wall Shelf Unit as Desk 

Working from home in a studio? The LACK wall shelf unit ($29.99) becomes a fold-down desk that disappears when not in use. 

Mount it at desk height (28-30 inches). Add a fold-down bracket so it can lower when you're working and tuck up against the wall when you're not. Total cost with brackets: $45. 

I work 9-5 at this setup. When I'm done, I flip it up, and my apartment instantly transforms from office to living space. No permanent desk taking up 12 square feet all day. 

 10. SKÅDIS Pegboard for Vertical Storage 

When you can't expand outward, go vertical. The SKÅDIS pegboard system ($15-40 depending on size) works in literally every room. 

How I use mine: 

• Kitchen: cooking utensils, spices, recipes 
• Entryway: keys, sunglasses, mail 
• Office: supplies, headphones, charging cables 
• Bathroom: jewelry, hair tools, makeup 

The accessories (hooks, containers, shelves) are interchangeable, so you can customize it to your exact needs. I have three pegboards throughout my flat. Best $75 I've spent. 

 11. BESTÅ Media Unit as Entryway Bench with Storage 

The BESTÅ wall-mounted cabinet ($85) mounted low becomes a floating entryway bench. Add a cushion on top ($20), and you have seating plus hidden storage for shoes, bags, and winter accessories. 

Mount it 18 inches off the ground (standard bench height). The open space underneath is perfect for shoes you wear daily. Inside the cabinet: everything else. 

 12. MALM Bed Frame with Storage Drawers 

If you need a traditional bed, the MALM with 4 storage boxes underneath ($349) is non-negotiable. Those drawers hold off-season clothes, extra bedding, or anything you don't need daily. 

Pro tip: Use vacuum storage bags for winter coats. I fit 8 coats in one drawer this way. 

 

13. NISSAFORS Trolley as Bathroom Organization 

Tiny European bathrooms typically have zero storage. The NISSAFORS trolley ($39.99) is narrow enough to fit in that weird gap between your toilet and wall. 

Three tiers hold toiletries, towels, toilet paper, cleaning supplies. The mesh design means nothing falls through but it still feels airy and light. 

 14. VITTSJO Shelf Unit with Custom Inserts 

The VITTSJO shelf ($99) is glass and metal—modern and sleek. But those open shelves can look cluttered fast. 

Solution: Add fabric boxes or baskets that fit perfectly in each cube. Hide the clutter (remotes, cables, random stuff) while keeping the elegant look. I use natural woven baskets for a Scandinavian aesthetic. 

Alternatively, back some sections with adhesive wallpaper for a pop of color or pattern. Totally customizable. 

15. EKET Cabinet System for Custom Built-ins 

The EKET system is like adult LEGO. Each cabinet is modular—stack them, mount them, combine different sizes and colors. 

I created a custom entertainment center by combining four EKET units in different configurations. Added legs to some, wall-mounted others at varying heights. It looks like a $2,000 custom built-in. Cost: $340. 

My favorite part? When I move (inevitable in London with these rents), I can reconfigure it completely for my next space. Traditional built-ins stay with the apartment. 

 Why These Hacks Work Better Than Custom Furniture 

I know what you're thinking: "Can't I just buy custom furniture designed for small spaces?" 

Sure, if you have unlimited funds. Custom furniture in London, NYC, or San Francisco runs $3,000-8,000 for a single piece. Built-in closets? $5,000-15,000. 

Here's why IKEA hacks are superior for small space living: 

Affordability at Scale 

I furnished and organized my entire 420-square-foot flat with these hacks for under $1,200. Custom solutions would've cost $12,000-15,000 minimum. That's literally a year's worth of rent savings in some cities. 

Flexibility 

When you're renting (like most people in expensive European cities), you need furniture that adapts. Custom built-ins stay behind. IKEA hacks move with you and reconfigure for your next space. 

DIY Satisfaction 

There's something deeply satisfying about creating custom solutions yourself. Every friend who visits asks where I got my furniture. When I say "I made it from IKEA pieces," they're genuinely impressed. 

Scalability 

Start with one hack. If it works, add another. You're not committed to a massive renovation or huge upfront cost. My hacks evolved over two years as I figured out what I actually needed. 

The Real Estate Impact: Making Small Spaces More Marketable 

Here's something landlords and homeowners need to understand: well-designed small spaces rent and sell faster. 

According to Rightmove UK's 2024 data, apartments with built-in storage solutions and smart space planning rent 23% faster than comparable units with basic furnishings. In Berlin, Munich, and Amsterdam, that number jumps to 30%. 

If you're a landlord with a 400-square-foot studio, investing $800-1,200 in IKEA hacks before listing could mean: 

• Renting 3-4 weeks faster (saving vacancy costs) 
• Commanding $100-200 more per month 
• Attracting higher-quality tenants who value organization 

For sellers: A well-staged small apartment can sell for 5-10% more. In a £350,000 London flat, that's £17,500-35,000. Spending £1,000 on IKEA hacks for staging? Absolute no-brainer. 

My friend's real estate agent in Copenhagen told her to remove some furniture before listing to make the space feel bigger. Instead, she implemented these hacks. The apartment sold in 9 days for 8% over asking. The buyers specifically mentioned the "clever storage solutions" in their offer letter. 

 Tips for Successful IKEA Hacks 

After two years of hacking, here's what I've learned: 

Measure Three Times, Buy Once 

European apartments have weird dimensions. That alcove might look like it fits a 39" PAX unit, but measure to the millimeter. I learned this the hard way with a KALLAX that was 2cm too wide. Had to return it and start over. 

Invest in Quality Tools 

A good drill, level, and stud finder are essential. Don't rely on IKEA's tiny Allen wrenches. I bought a proper cordless drill ($60) and it's paid for itself in time saved and frustration avoided. 

Use Wall Anchors Properly 

European walls are often concrete or brick, not drywall. You need proper masonry anchors. Don't cheap out here. Your wall-mounted shelves could literally fall and destroy your stuff (and your security deposit). 

Think Vertically 

Floor space is limited. Wall space usually isn't. Mount everything you can. My apartment has storage going all the way to the ceiling in places. Ladder for access? $25 from IKEA. 

Choose a Color Palette 

IKEA's white, black, and natural wood pieces can look mismatched if you're not careful. Pick 2-3 colors and stick with them. I use white, light wood, and matte black throughout. Everything coordinates. 

Hack in Phases 

You don't need to transform your entire apartment in one weekend. I started with the KALLAX room divider. Lived with it for a month. Then added the PAX wardrobe system. Then the kitchen hacks. Spreading it out made it financially manageable and less overwhelming. 

 Common Mistakes to Avoid 

Let me save you from my rookie errors: 

1. Buying Before Measuring 

I bought a beautiful HEMNES dresser before measuring my bedroom doorway. Guess what didn't fit? The HEMNES dresser. Had to return it and pay return shipping (£45). Measure your space AND your doorways. 

2. Ignoring Weight Limits 

IKEA pieces have weight limits for a reason. Don't overload wall-mounted shelves. My LACK shelf collapsed under too many books. Lost three paperbacks and put a dent in my hardwood floor. 

3. Skipping the Manual 

Those illustrated instructions seem basic, but they're there for a reason. I once built a PAX wardrobe backward. Had to completely disassemble and rebuild. Four hours wasted. 

4. Buying Too Much Storage 

More storage doesn't solve clutter—it enables it. Be ruthless about what you actually need. I once had so much storage that I kept stuff I should've donated. Less stuff = less storage needed = more space. 

5. Forgetting About Lighting 

Small spaces need excellent lighting to feel open. Add IKEA's LED strips ($15) under shelves and behind furniture. Makes a massive difference in how spacious everything feels. 

 My Small Space Philosophy After Two Years 

Living in 420 square feet has taught me something valuable: you don't need more space—you need better space. 

Americans are conditioned to believe bigger is better. The average new American home is 2,300 square feet. In Europe, families of four live comfortably in 800-square-foot apartments. The difference? Intentional design. 

These IKEA hacks forced me to be thoughtful about what I own and how I live. Every item needs to earn its place. Multi-functional furniture isn't just smart—it's essential. 

I used to dream about a bigger apartment. Now? I love my small space. It's easy to clean (30 minutes tops), cheap to heat, and everything I need is within arm's reach. Plus, my rent is £600 less per month than comparable larger flats in my neighborhood. 

That's £7,200 a year I'm saving. That's travel, experiences, savings. Worth way more than extra square footage I don't actually need. 

 Final Thoughts: Start Small, Think Big 

You don't need to implement all 15 hacks tomorrow. Pick the three that address your biggest pain points. 

For me, it was the KALLAX room divider, the PAX wardrobe system, and the wall-mounted kitchen storage. Those three changes made my apartment feel twice as large and infinitely more functional. 

Living in a tiny European-style apartment doesn't mean sacrificing style or comfort. With some creativity, basic tools, and affordable IKEA pieces, you can create a space that works beautifully for your life. 

My 420-square-foot flat has a dedicated workspace, comfortable sleeping area, functional kitchen, proper storage, and space to entertain friends. Two years ago, I would've said that was impossible. 

Small space magic isn't magic at all. It's just smart design, intentional choices, and a few genius IKEA hacks. 

 FAQ: IKEA Hacks for Small Apartments 

What is the best IKEA furniture for small apartments? 

The best IKEA furniture for small apartments includes multi-functional pieces like the KALLAX shelving unit (works as room divider, storage, or display), HEMNES daybed (sofa + guest bed + storage), and PAX wardrobe system (customizable closet solution). Look for furniture that serves multiple purposes or can be wall-mounted to save floor space. The key is choosing modular pieces that adapt to your specific space constraints. 

How much does it cost to furnish a small apartment with IKEA hacks? 

You can fully furnish a 300-500 square foot apartment with IKEA hacks for $800-1,500 depending on your needs. Basic essentials (bed, storage, kitchen organization) cost around $600-800. Adding comfort items (seating, lighting, décor) brings the total to $1,200-1,500. This is 70-80% less expensive than custom furniture or high-end retailers, which would cost $4,000-8,000 for comparable functionality. 

Can IKEA furniture work in a 300 square foot studio? 

Yes, IKEA furniture is ideal for 300 square foot studios. Focus on vertical storage (wall-mounted shelves, tall bookcases), multi-functional pieces (daybeds, fold-down desks), and room dividers that create zones without blocking light. The KALLAX 2x4 unit works perfectly as a room divider, IVAR shelving provides customizable storage, and wall-mounted LACK shelves free up valuable floor space. The key is choosing pieces designed for small spaces and utilizing vertical space. 

How do you make a small apartment look bigger with IKEA? 

Make small apartments look bigger by using light colors (white, light wood), wall-mounted furniture to keep floor visible, mirrors to reflect light, and multi-functional pieces that reduce clutter. Choose open-back shelving like KALLAX instead of solid furniture—it maintains sightlines. Add vertical storage to draw the eye up. Use consistent colors throughout to create flow. Incorporate glass and metal furniture (VITTSJO series) for visual lightness. Proper lighting, including LED strips under shelves, makes spaces feel larger and more open. 

What are the most versatile IKEA pieces for apartment living? 

The most versatile IKEA pieces are: KALLAX shelving (room divider, storage, TV stand), RÅSKOG utility cart (kitchen cart, bar cart, bathroom storage), IVAR shelving system (customizable for any room), HEMNES daybed (sofa + bed + storage), PAX wardrobe (closet solution), SKÅDIS pegboard (wall storage for any room), and LACK tables (stackable for custom furniture). These pieces adapt to different spaces and can be reconfigured as your needs change, making them perfect for renters. 

Do IKEA hacks work in European apartments? 

IKEA hacks are specifically ideal for European apartments, which tend to be smaller than American homes. Many IKEA designs originate from Scandinavian compact living principles. The furniture dimensions work perfectly for European spaces—narrow BILLY bookcases fit in tight corners, HEMNES daybeds maximize multi-functionality, and modular systems like PAX and KALLAX adapt to irregular European apartment layouts. The affordability also makes sense given Europe's high urban rent costs. 

How do you maximize storage in a tiny apartment? 

Maximize storage by thinking vertically (floor-to-ceiling shelving), using under-bed storage (MALM bed with drawers), installing wall-mounted organizers (SKÅDIS pegboards), utilizing door backs (hooks and organizers), and choosing multi-functional furniture with built-in storage (HEMNES daybed, BESTÅ units). Keep things off the floor to maintain a sense of space. Use uniform storage boxes to create visual calm. Add a RÅSKOG or NISSAFORS rolling cart for mobile storage that moves where needed. 

Can you customize IKEA furniture for small spaces? 

Yes, IKEA furniture is designed to be customized. You can paint or stain wood pieces (IVAR, RAST), add different legs or hardware, stack units in creative configurations (EKET, KALLAX), cut LACK tables to custom sizes, and combine different series. Popular customizations include: spray-painting RÅSKOG carts, adding marble contact paper to LACK tables, installing custom cushions on BESTÅ units for seating, and backing KALLAX cubes with wallpaper. Always check weight limits and structural integrity when modifying. 

What tools do you need for IKEA hacks? 

Essential tools for IKEA hacks include: cordless drill/driver ($50-80), level, tape measure, stud finder (for wall mounting), hammer, proper wall anchors for your wall type, wood glue, sandpaper (for painting projects), and a good set of screwdrivers. Optional but helpful: circular saw for cutting wood, spray paint for custom finishes, and a step ladder for accessing vertical storage. Don't rely solely on IKEA's included Allen wrenches—quality tools make assembly faster and results sturdier. 

How long do IKEA furniture hacks last? 

IKEA furniture hacks can last 5-10+ years with proper installation and care. Wall-mounted pieces properly anchored last indefinitely. Solid wood items like IVAR and HEMNES are extremely durable—many people use them for 10-15 years. Particleboard pieces (KALLAX, BESTÅ) last 5-8 years with normal use. Key longevity factors: following weight limits, using proper wall anchors, tightening hardware annually, and avoiding water damage. Quality hacks using sturdy pieces and good installation techniques outlast cheaper furniture from non-specialized retailers. 

Are IKEA hacks good for rental apartments? 

IKEA hacks are excellent for rentals because they're removable and portable. Wall-mounted pieces can be taken down and holes patched when moving. Freestanding hacks (stacked LACK tables, KALLAX dividers, EKET configurations) require zero permanent modifications. Focus on hacks that don't alter the property: use Command strips instead of nails where possible, choose freestanding furniture over built-ins, and select pieces that reconfigure for your next space. Always use proper anchors to prevent damage—security deposit protection is worth the extra care. 

What's the difference between European and American small apartment living? 

European small apartments (300-500 sq ft) are standard in city centers, while American apartments this size are considered "micro" units. European design emphasizes multi-functionality, vertical storage, and minimal possessions. European apartments often lack built-in closets, have smaller kitchens, and feature room-height ceilings requiring floor-to-ceiling storage solutions. American small apartments typically include built-in closets but still benefit from European space-saving principles. Both benefit from IKEA's Scandinavian design philosophy: modular, affordable, and optimized for compact living. 

Ready to transform your small space? Start with measuring your space, identifying your biggest storage pain points, and choosing 2-3 hacks to implement first. Your tiny apartment has more potential than you think!