Living rooms often become catch-all spaces where everything from remote controls to kids’ toys seems to accumulate. We’ve all been there – staring at clutter and wondering how to create a space that’s both functional and beautiful without very costly.
IKEA offers some of the most versatile and affordable storage answers that can transform your living room from chaotic to organized. Their clever designs maximize every inch of space while maintaining that clean Scandinavian aesthetic we all love.
We’re excited to share our favorite IKEA storage hacks that’ll help you create a living room that works harder for your lifestyle. From hidden storage ottomans to floating shelves that double as display space these answers prove you don’t need expensive custom built-ins to achieve a magazine-worthy look.
Maximize Floor Space With IKEA Floating Shelves and Wall Units
Wall mounted storage answers transform cramped living rooms into spacious havens by utilizing vertical space effectively. IKEA’s floating shelves and wall units offer practical alternatives to bulky floor furniture while maintaining that clean Scandinavian aesthetic we love.
LACK Wall Shelves for Decorative Display Storage
LACK floating shelves create stunning display opportunities for books magazines decorative objects and plants without consuming precious floor space. These lightweight shelves mount directly to walls using IKEA’s included brackets and can support up to 5 kg of weight per shelf.
Installation becomes effortless with LACK’s simple mounting system that requires only basic tools. We recommend mounting multiple shelves at varying heights to create visual interest while maximizing storage capacity. The shelves come in white black-brown and gray finishes to complement existing living room decor.
Display versatility shines when you arrange items of different heights and textures on LACK shelves. Small potted plants picture frames candles and decorative bowls create layered compositions that draw the eye upward. Group items in odd numbers for the most visually appealing arrangements.
IVAR Shelving Units for Customizable Wall Storage
IVAR wall mounted shelving systems provide modular storage answers that adapt to changing living room needs over time. These solid wood units mount securely to walls and offer endless configuration possibilities with adjustable shelves brackets and additional components.
Customization options expand with IVAR’s mix and match approach to storage organization. Add drawers cabinets or wine racks to create personalized storage combinations. The untreated pine wood accepts stain paint or oil treatments to match your living room’s color scheme perfectly.
Load capacity impresses with each IVAR shelf supporting up to 30 kg when properly mounted to wall studs. This strength allows storage of heavy items like books electronics gaming consoles and decorative collections. Mount multiple units side by side to create floor to ceiling storage walls.
Assembly flexibility allows for easy reconfiguration as storage needs change. Remove shelves adjust heights or add new components without starting from scratch. This adaptability makes IVAR ideal for renters or anyone who enjoys refreshing their living space regularly.
ALGOT Wall-Mounted Storage Systems
ALGOT modular wall storage creates comprehensive organization answers that keep living room essentials easily accessible yet neatly contained. This versatile system combines rails brackets shelves baskets and drawers to build custom storage configurations.
Installation simplicity starts with ALGOT’s wall rail system that distributes weight evenly across multiple mounting points. The rails accept various brackets that hold shelves baskets or hanging rods at any height. This flexibility accommodates items of different sizes from remote controls to board games.
Storage combinations multiply when you mix ALGOT components strategically throughout your living room. Wire baskets hold throw pillows and blankets while solid shelves display books and electronics. Deep drawers conceal paperwork remote controls and charging cables.
Weight distribution spreads across ALGOT’s sturdy aluminum rails which support up to 40 kg per bracket when mounted correctly. This capacity handles substantial storage loads including heavy electronics gaming equipment and large decorative items without sagging or failure.
Accessibility improves with ALGOT’s open design that keeps stored items visible and within reach. Unlike closed cabinets these systems encourage regular use while maintaining visual organization. Add mesh baskets for small items or solid shelves for books and decorative pieces.
Transform Your Coffee Table Into a Storage Powerhouse

Coffee tables don’t have to be just surface space. We’ve discovered that IKEA’s storage-equipped coffee tables can revolutionize your living room organization while maintaining that sleek Scandinavian aesthetic.
HEMNES Coffee Table With Hidden Compartments
HEMNES Coffee Table features cleverly concealed compartments that keep your living room essentials completely out of sight. We love how this piece maintains a clutter-free environment by hiding remote controls, magazines, and charging cables in its secret storage areas. The hidden compartments slide open smoothly, revealing ample space for items you use daily but don’t want displayed on your coffee table surface.
Storage capacity reaches impressive levels with multiple compartments designed for different item sizes. The table’s traditional design blends seamlessly with various decor styles while providing the functionality modern living rooms demand. We recommend using the hidden spaces for items like board games, throw blankets, or seasonal decorations that need quick access but shouldn’t remain visible.
STOCKHOLM Coffee Table With Lower Shelf Storage
STOCKHOLM Coffee Table offers an elegant lower shelf that transforms dead space into valuable storage real estate. We appreciate how this design creates perfect storage for books, magazines, or decorative items without compromising the table’s minimalist appeal. The lower shelf sits at an ideal height for easy access while maintaining visual balance in your living room layout.
Books and magazines find their perfect home on this spacious lower tier, creating an organized display that guests can browse easily. The shelf accommodates various item heights and shapes, making it versatile for storing everything from coffee table books to decorative boxes. We’ve found this table particularly effective in smaller living rooms where every storage opportunity counts.
LIATORP Coffee Table With Glass Top and Storage
LIATORP Coffee Table combines a stunning glass top with practical storage capabilities that showcase your favorite items beautifully. We’re impressed by how the glass surface protects stored items while creating an elegant display case effect for decorative objects or collectibles. The transparent top allows you to organize small items underneath while keeping them dust-free and easily visible.
Small decorative items like candles, coasters, or seasonal decorations look stunning when arranged beneath the glass surface. The storage area accommodates items of various heights, creating ever-changing visual interest while maintaining organization. We recommend using this table to display collections or frequently used items that benefit from protection while remaining accessible and beautifully presented.
Create Hidden Storage Behind Your Sofa

Transforming the space behind your sofa into clever storage creates organization without sacrificing your living room’s visual appeal. We’ve discovered several IKEA answers that maximize this often-overlooked area while maintaining that clean Scandinavian aesthetic.
IVAR Shelving as a Room Divider With Storage
IVAR shelving units serve dual purposes by creating storage space and defining separate areas within your living room. These versatile pieces fit snugly behind sofas while acting as natural room dividers for open floor plans.
Customization becomes effortless with IVAR’s modular design, allowing you to adjust widths and heights to match your exact space requirements. We recommend stacking units to create floor-to-ceiling storage that holds books, decorative items, and seasonal belongings.
Installation takes minimal effort since these untreated wood units assemble quickly and adapt to changing storage needs over time. Painting or staining the shelves lets you match existing décor while creating a cohesive look throughout your living space.
HEMNES Console Table for Behind-Sofa Organization
HEMNES Console Tables provide sleek behind-sofa storage that keeps essentials within reach yet out of immediate view. This elegant solution offers both storage compartments and display surfaces for family photos or decorative accents.
Positioning the console table directly behind your sofa creates a natural boundary while offering convenient storage for items like throws, books, or entertainment accessories. We find this particularly useful for storing items you need regularly but don’t want cluttering your main seating area.
The table’s classic design complements various living room styles, from traditional to contemporary, making it a versatile addition to any space. Drawers and shelves provide organized storage options that help maintain your living room’s tidy appearance.
BESTA Units as Low-Profile Sofa Back Storage
BESTA units deliver modular storage answers that create substantial organization behind sofas without overwhelming your living room visually. These low-profile pieces provide ample storage for books, linens, DVDs, and other living room essentials.
Mounting BESTA units at sofa height creates a floating storage wall that doesn’t consume valuable floor space. We appreciate how these units can be customized with doors or drawers to hide clutter while maintaining easy access to frequently used items.
Versatility defines the BESTA system, with various sizes and configurations available to fit different sofa widths and storage requirements. Combining multiple units creates extensive storage capacity while preserving your living room’s open, uncluttered feel.
Utilize Corners With Smart IKEA Storage Solutions

Corner spaces in living rooms often become forgotten areas, but we can transform these neglected spots into powerful storage zones with strategic IKEA answers.
HEMNES Corner TV Unit for Media and Decor
HEMNES Corner TV Unit transforms awkward corner spaces into functional entertainment centers. This specialized unit seamlessly integrates media equipment and decorative items into a single organized solution. We love how it houses both functional electronics and aesthetic elements without overwhelming the room’s design.
The unit’s corner-exact design maximizes space efficiency while keeping cables and devices neatly contained. Entertainment essentials like gaming consoles, streaming devices, and sound systems find dedicated homes within its compartments. Decorative touches such as plants, picture frames, and collectibles can be displayed on its surfaces to maintain visual appeal.
Storage compartments keep living room essentials organized and easily accessible. Remote controls, charging cables, and media accessories stay hidden yet within reach. The unit’s height creates additional vertical storage without blocking natural light flow through corner windows.
IVAR Corner Shelf Units for Vertical Storage
IVAR Corner Shelf Units maximize vertical storage in previously underutilized corner spaces. These customizable units stretch from floor to ceiling, providing ample space for books, decorative items, and living room essentials. We appreciate their ability to adapt to different ceiling heights and storage needs.
The modular design allows us to configure shelves at varying heights to accommodate different items. Books, magazines, and binders can occupy lower shelves for easy access. Decorative pieces like vases, artwork, and plants create visual interest on upper levels.
Vertical expansion utilizes corner space without consuming valuable floor area. The slim profile fits snugly into tight corners while offering substantial storage capacity. Assembly flexibility means we can adjust shelf spacing as our storage needs evolve over time.
ALGOT Corner Storage Systems
ALGOT Corner Storage Systems offer highly versatile and customizable storage configurations. These modular systems adapt to exact organizational needs with interchangeable components and brackets. We can create customized answers for storing cleaning supplies, linens, or personal items in corner locations.
The system’s flexibility allows us to combine different storage elements like shelves, drawers, and baskets. Cleaning products and household supplies stay organized behind closed doors. Linens, throws, and seasonal items find designated spaces within customizable compartments.
Customization options ensure perfect fits for unique corner dimensions and storage requirements. Wall-mounted installation keeps floor space clear while providing substantial organizational capacity. The system grows with changing needs through its expandable modular design approach.
Style Your Entertainment Center With Functional Storage

We’ve discovered that your entertainment center doesn’t need to sacrifice style for organization. Smart IKEA answers can transform this focal point into a sleek storage powerhouse.
BESTÅ TV Units With Concealed Cable Management
BESTÅ TV units deliver the ultimate solution for managing unsightly cables while maintaining a modern aesthetic. These versatile units feature concealed storage compartments that hide tangled wires and power strips from view. We love how the system allows for complete customization to match your exact media equipment needs.
Customization options include various drawer configurations, open shelving combinations, and closed cabinet designs. You’ll find that cable management becomes effortless with built-in openings and routing channels. The sleek profile keeps your entertainment area looking professionally organized without visible cord chaos.
HEMNES TV Bench With Open and Closed Storage
HEMNES TV bench combines traditional charm with practical dual storage functionality. This piece offers both open shelving for items you want to display and closed cabinets for hiding less attractive necessities. We appreciate how it balances visual appeal with organizational needs in one cohesive unit.
Open compartments work perfectly for displaying decorative bowls, plants, or frequently used remotes. Closed storage handles items like extra cables, instruction manuals, and gaming accessories. The traditional design seamlessly integrates with various décor styles while providing substantial storage capacity.
LAPPLAND TV Storage Unit for Media Organization
LAPPLAND storage unit specializes in comprehensive media organization with dedicated compartments for your collection. This unit provides ample space specifically designed for DVDs, CDs, gaming equipment, and other entertainment essentials. We find it particularly effective for households with extensive media libraries.
Multiple shelf configurations accommodate different media sizes and formats efficiently. The vertical design maximizes storage capacity without consuming excessive floor space. Your entertainment collection stays visible and accessible while maintaining a tidy, organized appearance that eliminates media clutter.
Add Storage Ottoman and Bench Seating Options

Multi-functional furniture pieces like storage ottomans and benches transform your living room by combining comfortable seating with hidden storage compartments. These clever answers eliminate clutter while providing flexible seating options that adapt to your entertainment needs.
STUVA Storage Bench for Kids’ Living Rooms
STUVA storage benches create perfect seating answers specifically designed for families with children. This practical bench accommodates kids’ needs by offering a comfortable place to sit while storing toys, books, and games inside its spacious compartment. We love how it promotes organization in kid-friendly spaces by keeping playtime essentials easily accessible yet hidden from view.
The bench doubles as a reading nook where children can sit comfortably while accessing their favorite books stored inside. Its child-safe design ensures durability during active play sessions while maintaining the orderly appearance parents appreciate. Families find this piece particularly valuable in living rooms that serve as both adult relaxation spaces and children’s play areas.
HEMMAHOS Storage Box Ottoman for Flexible Seating
HEMMAHOS storage box ottomans provide versatile seating that works perfectly in compact living spaces. This clever ottoman serves as extra seating during gatherings while concealing blankets, magazines, and remote controls in its hidden storage compartment. We appreciate its lightweight design that makes rearranging furniture layouts effortless.
The compact footprint fits seamlessly into small apartments or flexible living areas where space optimization matters most. Its neutral design complements various decor styles while offering practical storage for everyday living room essentials. Guests never realize they’re sitting on a storage solution that keeps your space looking professionally organized.
OMAR Shelving With Storage Baskets as Seating
OMAR shelving units transform into informal seating areas when paired with cushions and storage baskets. This creative approach combines open storage with casual seating by adding comfortable cushions to the lower shelves while using baskets to organize items above. We recommend this cost-effective solution for budget-conscious homeowners seeking dual-purpose furniture.
The customizable nature allows you to arrange baskets and cushions according to your exact storage and seating needs. This flexible system adapts as your living room requirements change over time. Creative arrangement of baskets keeps belongings organized while the cushioned seating provides a relaxed spot for reading or casual conversations.
Organize With Stylish IKEA Storage Baskets and Boxes

Storage baskets and boxes offer the perfect balance of functionality and style for our living room organization needs. We’ve found that these versatile answers help maintain a clean aesthetic while providing essential storage space.
BRANÄS Rattan Baskets for Natural Texture
BRANÄS rattan baskets bring warmth and natural texture to our living room spaces. These handwoven storage answers excel at housing books, magazines, remote controls, and decorative accessories while maintaining an organic appeal. We appreciate how they seamlessly integrate into both modern and traditional décor schemes, creating cozy focal points throughout the room.
Natural materials like rattan add visual interest without overwhelming our existing furniture arrangements. These baskets work exceptionally well when clustered together on shelves or positioned beneath coffee tables for easy access storage. We’ve discovered they’re particularly effective for creating designated zones within open concept living spaces.
DRÖNA Fabric Boxes for KALLAX Integration
DRÖNA fabric boxes transform KALLAX shelving units into stylish storage powerhouses. These perfectly sized boxes slide effortlessly into KALLAX cubes, offering concealed storage for linens, out of season clothing, children’s toys, and electronic accessories. We love how they maintain clean lines while hiding visual clutter from view.
Customization becomes simple with DRÖNA’s variety of colors and patterns that complement our living room aesthetics. Black, white, and gray options provide neutral coordination, while patterned versions add personality to otherwise plain shelving systems. We recommend mixing solid colors with patterns to create visual depth without overwhelming the space.
KVARNVIK Storage Boxes for Seasonal Item Storage
KVARNVIK storage boxes excel at organizing seasonal items that rotate throughout the year. These sturdy containers accommodate winter blankets, holiday decorations, summer throw pillows, and rotating artwork collections with remarkable efficiency. We find their stackable design particularly valuable for maximizing vertical storage in closets and behind furniture.
Labeling capabilities make these boxes incredibly practical for long term organization strategies. Clear identification helps us locate exact items quickly when seasons change or special occasions arise. We stack them in designated storage areas where they remain easily accessible yet completely out of sight.
Design a Functional Entryway Storage System

Building on our living room storage answers, we’ll now focus on creating an organized entry area that seamlessly connects to your main living space. These IKEA pieces transform chaotic entryways into streamlined zones that welcome guests while keeping essentials within reach.
HEMNES Shoe Cabinet for Living Room Entrances
HEMNES Shoe Cabinet delivers exceptional storage capacity while maintaining a slim profile that fits perfectly in living room entrances. This cabinet accommodates up to 12 pairs of shoes across its four compartments, keeping footwear organized and out of sight. We love how its 35-inch height creates additional surface space for keys, mail, or decorative accents without overwhelming smaller entryways.
Installing this cabinet near your living room entrance prevents muddy shoes from tracking through your newly organized space. The tilting compartments make accessing frequently worn shoes effortless, while the solid wood construction ensures durability for daily family use. Color options include white stain and black-brown, allowing you to match existing living room furniture for a cohesive design flow.
PINNIG Coat Rack With Storage Bench
PINNIG Coat Rack With Storage Bench combines three essential entryway functions into one space-saving unit measuring just 76 inches wide. This system includes five coat hooks, a storage bench with lifting seat, and a shoe shelf underneath that holds approximately 6 pairs of shoes. We particularly appreciate how the bench height of 17 inches provides comfortable seating for putting on shoes while storing seasonal items inside.
Assembly takes approximately 30 minutes, and the black finish coordinates beautifully with modern living room aesthetics. The bench supports up to 110 pounds, making it suitable for adults and children alike. Storage compartments keep gloves, scarves, and umbrellas organized, while the open shoe shelf promotes air circulation to prevent odors.
MACKAPAR Coat Rack With Shoe Storage Unit
MACKAPAR Coat Rack With Shoe Storage Unit maximizes vertical space with its 78-inch height, perfect for families needing comprehensive entryway organization. This unit features six coat hooks at varying heights, three shoe compartments that accommodate different shoe sizes, and a top shelf for bags or seasonal accessories. We find its narrow 11-inch depth ideal for tight spaces between living rooms and front doors.
White finish brightens smaller entryways while creating visual continuity with IKEA’s other storage systems throughout your living space. Each shoe compartment holds 2-3 pairs depending on size, and the open design allows wet shoes to dry naturally. Installation requires wall mounting for stability, and the included hardware supports up to 110 pounds of hanging weight across all hooks.
Conclusion
We’ve shown you how IKEA’s affordable storage answers can completely transform your living room from cluttered chaos to organized bliss. From wall-mounted systems that maximize vertical space to multi-functional furniture pieces that serve double duty these options prove you don’t need expensive custom pieces to achieve a stylish organized home.
The key is choosing versatile pieces that adapt to your exact needs and space constraints. Whether you’re dealing with awkward corners tight budgets or simply need better organization these IKEA answers offer the perfect blend of functionality and Scandinavian style.
Start with one or two pieces that address your biggest storage challenges then build from there. Your living room transformation is just an IKEA trip away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best IKEA storage solutions for small living rooms?
IKEA’s LACK floating shelves, IVAR shelving units, and ALGOT wall-mounted systems are ideal for small spaces. These solutions maximize vertical space without consuming floor area, helping transform cramped rooms into organized havens while maintaining IKEA’s signature Scandinavian aesthetic.
How can I add storage to my coffee table area without replacing furniture?
Consider IKEA’s storage-equipped coffee tables like the HEMNES with hidden compartments, STOCKHOLM with lower shelving, or LIATORP with glass-top storage. These options provide discreet organization for remotes, magazines, and decorative items while maintaining your living room’s style.
What IKEA solutions work best for corner storage in living rooms?
The HEMNES Corner TV Unit integrates media and decor storage, IVAR Corner Shelf Units provide customizable vertical storage, and ALGOT Corner Storage Systems offer modular configurations. These solutions transform unused corner spaces into functional storage zones without cluttering your room.
How can I organize my entertainment center with IKEA furniture?
BESTÅ TV units offer concealed cable management, HEMNES TV benches combine open and closed storage, and LAPPLAND TV storage units provide dedicated media compartments. These solutions keep cords hidden while organizing DVDs, gaming equipment, and decorative items efficiently.
What are the best IKEA multi-functional furniture pieces for living rooms?
Storage ottomans and benches like the STUVA storage bench, HEMMAHOS storage box ottoman, and OMAR shelving units with cushions provide seating while hiding clutter. These pieces offer flexible solutions for families and compact spaces on any budget.
Which IKEA storage baskets and boxes work best for living room organization?
BRANÄS rattan baskets blend with various décor styles, DRÖNA fabric boxes fit perfectly in KALLAX units, and KVARNVIK storage boxes stack for seasonal organization. These options balance functionality with style while providing concealed storage throughout your living space.
How can I create organized storage behind my sofa?
Use IVAR shelving units as room dividers, HEMNES Console Tables for easy access to essentials, or BESTA units mounted at sofa height. These behind-sofa solutions provide substantial storage without compromising visual appeal or taking up valuable floor space.
What IKEA entryway storage solutions complement living room organization?
The HEMNES Shoe Cabinet stores 12 pairs while providing surface space, PINNIG Coat Rack combines hooks with storage bench, and MACKAPAR maximizes vertical space with multiple compartments. These solutions prevent clutter from entering your organized living room.