They Used 3 IKEA KALLAX Bookcases Instead of a Bed Frame to Create Storage Beneath Their Mattress
A small bedroom had enough space for a full-size mattress, but a conventional bed frame would leave little room for storage. Rather than adding a dresser or buying a storage bed, the homeowners looked for a way to use the space beneath the mattress without taking up more floor area.
Ilya and Sarah, who shared their project on IKEA Hackers, used three IKEA KALLAX bookcases to create a raised bed base. They arranged the units in a U-shape, covered the center with plywood panels, and placed their mattress on top, leaving storage compartments accessible along three sides. The materials cost about $200.
Three IKEA KALLAX Bookcases Formed the Bed Base
Two wood-effect KALLAX units were placed along opposite sides of the bed, while a white unit connected them at the foot. Each bookcase rested on its side, with the compartments facing outward.
The arrangement left an open space in the center and positioned the bed against the bedroom wall. The shelving units formed the perimeter without a conventional frame.
Non-Slip Rug Pads Went Between the Bookcases and Plywood
The builders cut non-slip rug pads into strips and laid them across the upper surfaces of the KALLAX units.
The textured pads provided grip for the plywood panels that would sit above them. A rug beneath the bookcases helped reduce movement against the wood floor.
Three Plywood Panels Covered the Open Center
Ilya and Sarah used three plywood sheets rather than one large panel because the smaller pieces could fit inside their car.
They began placing the panels across the opposing bookcases, spanning the empty center. A storage bin was positioned beneath the platform before the opening was covered.
The First Two Panels Formed the Rear Platform
Two plywood sheets covered the section closest to the wall, with their edges meeting across the middle.
The panels rested on the shelving units without visible screws or brackets, leaving the front portion open for the remaining sheet.
The Third Plywood Sheet Completed the Bed Base
The final sheet extended across the white KALLAX unit at the foot of the bed, joining the other two panels to form a surface for the mattress.
The plywood sections could be lifted to reach the large space in the center. The builders recommended using that area for seasonal items because access requires removing the mattress and lifting the panels.
A Full-Size Mattress Covered the Plywood Platform
Once the panels were in place, the builders added the mattress and fitted sheet.
The mattress covered the supporting plywood, while the shelving remained visible around the lower edges. The height of the bookcases raised the sleeping surface above the floor.
Bedding Concealed the Bookcases Beneath the Mattress
A gray bedcover hung over the sides, with a striped blanket spread across the top. Small bedside tables sat on either side, and a stuffed husky rested against the wall.
The bed appeared similar to a conventional platform design once the bedding was in place.
The Finished Bed Has Storage Along Three Sides
A later photograph shows the open KALLAX compartments beneath the mattress edge. The cubes provide room for storage boxes and bedroom belongings without occupying more floor space.
The builders suggested IKEA DRÖNA boxes for the openings, while the center could accommodate larger items kept out of sight.
KALLAX bookcases are designed for shelving, not as load-rated bed supports. The project documents the builders’ approach but does not establish that the configuration meets bed-frame safety requirements.
Another homeowner repurposed IKEA storage furniture on a larger scale, using six BILLY bookcases instead of building walls to create a bedroom inside a studio apartment.
Would you use IKEA KALLAX bookcases beneath a mattress or choose a conventional storage bed?
Images and project details courtesy of Ilya and Sarah, via IKEA Hackers.