10 IKEA Hacks That Look Straight Out of Studio McGee

If you’ve ever scrolled through a Studio McGee project and thought, “I want my home to look like that!” — you’re not alone. Shea McGee’s signature style combines modern classic design, soft neutral palettes, warm textures, and carefully curated decor to create homes that feel both polished and effortlessly approachable. The good news is you don’t need a designer budget to achieve this look. With creativity, attention to detail, and a few strategic upgrades, you can turn IKEA furniture into pieces that look straight out of a high-end design portfolio.

These 10 IKEA hacks will show you how to transform simple pieces into elegant, Studio McGee-inspired furniture, focusing on hardware swaps, paint finishes, adding trim or feet, and styling tricks that elevate the entire room.

1. The HAVSTA Built-In Hack: From Store-Bought to Custom Cabinetry

The HAVSTA series is one of IKEA’s most versatile pieces — and with a few tweaks, it can look like true custom millwork. Studio McGee frequently uses built-in cabinetry to anchor spaces and create a sense of permanence and luxury, and the HAVSTA is perfect for replicating this aesthetic without a huge investment.

Step-by-step hack:

• Combine Units: Line up multiple HAVSTA cabinets along a wall to create a continuous storage solution. Make sure they are flush and secure together using brackets.

• Add Trim: Use MDF panels or trim to fill gaps between the cabinets and the wall for a seamless built-in look.

• Crown and Baseboard: Install crown molding along the top and baseboard at the bottom to integrate the unit into the room’s architecture.

• Paint: Choose a warm, soft neutral like Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee or Farrow & Ball’s Shaded White to create that timeless Studio McGee look.

Hardware upgrades: Swap the standard IKEA knobs with matte black or brushed brass handles for a more polished and designer feel.

Styling tip: Incorporate a mix of decorative vases, woven baskets, sculptural objects, and greenery on open shelves. Use a mix of vertical and horizontal book placement to create visual interest, and leave some empty space for breathing room.

Extra detail: Consider adding interior lighting, such as LED strips inside the cabinet, to highlight displayed objects and mimic a built-in professional design finish.

2. The BILLY Bookcase Hack: Classic Built-Ins on a Budget

The IKEA BILLY bookcase is one of the most popular DIY pieces for a reason. It can easily be upgraded to resemble the elegant symmetrical built-ins often found in Studio McGee living rooms, offices, or libraries.

Step-by-step hack:

• Combine Multiple Units: Align BILLY bookcases across a wall. Secure them together and ensure shelves are level.

• Add Top Shelving or Countertop: Place a wooden slab, thick MDF, or a quartz/stone top to give the effect of continuous cabinetry.

• Trim: Frame the units with crown molding and baseboard trim to create the look of a built-in.

• Paint: Choose muted neutrals such as Farrow & Ball’s Pale Oak or Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter for a timeless feel.

Styling: Studio McGee’s shelves are never overcrowded. Mix in art pieces, plants, books, and woven baskets. Group objects in odd numbers for a natural arrangement.

Extra details: Add interior lighting like small puck lights or LED strips to give shelves a warm glow. Consider painting the back panel a slightly contrasting color for depth and dimension.

3. The PAX Wardrobe Hack: Custom Closet Luxury

A serene, organized closet is a hallmark of Studio McGee design, and IKEA’s PAX system is perfect for creating that custom-built look without a designer price tag.

How to upgrade it:

• Build a Frame: Construct a wood frame around your PAX units to make them look built-in.

• Add Doors or Panels: Consider shaker-style panels for a subtle, timeless look.

• Paint: Soft greens, warm taupes, or muted grays work beautifully for closets that feel luxe yet approachable.

• Hardware: Swap out basic IKEA handles for leather pulls, brass knobs, or matte black levers.

Extra tip: Use PAX accessories like pull-out trays, baskets, and modular organizers to make the closet functional while maintaining a streamlined, Studio McGee aesthetic. Adding LED strip lighting along shelves or inside drawers elevates the feel of a professional design finish.

4. The BESTA Console Hack: Elevated Media Storage

The BESTA system is highly versatile and perfect for creating floating consoles, media centers, or sideboards with a custom designer feel.

Step-by-step hack:

• Floating Cabinets: Mount BESTA units on the wall to create a clean, elevated look.

• Door Upgrades: Replace IKEA doors with custom panels or add trim/molding for a built-in look. Cane doors are also very Studio McGee-inspired.

• Countertop: Install a wood slab, marble, or quartz top for a high-end appearance.

• Paint: Soft white, taupe, or greige gives a cohesive, polished feel.

Styling tips: Place a large framed art piece, layered decor items like vases and books, and greenery to add warmth and personality. Pair with matching brass or black hardware for continuity.

Extra detail: Add hidden LED lights under the floating cabinet to create subtle ambient lighting, perfect for living rooms or entryways.

5. IKEA Lighting Hacks: Custom Fixtures for Less

Studio McGee spaces are defined by their layered, soft lighting. While designer lighting can be expensive, IKEA provides great bases for customization.

How to hack IKEA lighting:

• Cord Upgrade: Replace standard cords with linen or braided fabric for a more sophisticated look.

• Paint or Gild: Spray paint metal parts in brass, black, or antique gold to mimic designer finishes.

• Shades: Use rattan, wicker, or linen shades for texture and organic warmth.

• Layer Lighting: Combine ceiling fixtures, table lamps, and sconces for a layered effect.

Pro tip: The IKEA SINNERLIG pendant can be customized with a painted finish or added leather details to look designer. Hanging it above a dining table or in a cozy reading nook adds instant style.

6. The IVAR Cabinet Hack: Minimalist Versatility

IVAR cabinets are simple and unassuming, but they’re a blank canvas for Studio McGee-style transformations.

Upgrade ideas:

• Finish: Sand and stain the pine wood in light oak, walnut, or lime wash.

• Trim: Add shaker-style panels, fluted fronts, or cane webbing to cabinet doors.

• Hardware: Replace IKEA knobs with brass, black, or leather pulls.

• Feet: Add decorative legs or a baseboard for lift and sophistication.

Styling tip: Use IVAR as a credenza, bathroom vanity, or entryway console. Decorate with layered accessories like books, vases, and greenery for a curated Studio McGee feel.

7. IKEA KALLAX Hack: Designer-Style Storage Cubes

KALLAX cubes can become elegant storage solutions with just a few upgrades.

How to elevate:

• Door Inserts: Add wood, cane, or fabric inserts for texture.

• Framing: Add trim to create a sideboard effect.

• Paint: Neutral tones instantly elevate the look.

• Hardware: Consider small knobs or leather pulls for sophistication.

Styling tips: Layer with decorative objects, candles, and books. Place a large mirror or framed art behind it to enhance visual depth.

Extra detail: Stack or layer KALLAX units to create a custom console or room divider. Adding a soft rug underneath helps define the space and tie the look together.

8. TARVA Dresser Hack: Vintage Meets Modern

TARVA dressers are solid wood and extremely versatile, making them ideal for Studio McGee-inspired upgrades.

Customizations:

• Stain or Paint: Sand and stain in a neutral oak, walnut, or white-wash finish.

• Trim: Add fluted or shaker detailing to drawers.

• Hardware: Antique brass, black, or leather pulls transform the piece.

• Finish: Seal with matte polyurethane for a natural, designer feel.

Styling tips: Top with layered decor: small plants, textured table runners, and framed artwork. Use it as a nightstand, entryway console, or dresser for a polished Studio McGee aesthetic.

9. IKEA Kitchen Hack: Custom-Feeling Cabinets

Studio McGee kitchens are timeless and approachable. You can replicate that feel with IKEA kitchen cabinets.

How to elevate:

• Custom Doors: Use Semihandmade or Reform doors for a boutique finish.

• Paint: Soft whites, muted greens, or dusty blues create warmth.

• Hardware: Upgrade to matte black, aged brass, or brushed nickel pulls.

• Countertops: Butcher block, marble, or quartz adds texture and quality.

Styling: Use woven baskets, vases, and minimal countertop styling. Add layered lighting like pendants over islands and under-cabinet LED strips for depth.

10. IKEA Bed Frame Hack: Serenity Meets Sophistication

A serene, layered bedroom is the ultimate Studio McGee signature. IKEA bed frames can be transformed to mimic high-end upholstered or fluted headboards.

Customizations:

• Upholster: Add linen, velvet, or boucle for a soft, luxurious look.

• Headboard: Build a padded headboard or use peel-and-stick paneling for dimension.

• Bedding: Layer neutral sheets, textured throws, and decorative pillows.

• Styling: Add bedside tables, brass or black lamps, and a natural-fiber rug for warmth.

Extra tip: Incorporate a statement mirror or gallery wall to elevate the entire bedroom aesthetic.

Bonus: Studio McGee Styling Tricks

• Mix textures: wood, linen, leather, metal, and ceramics.

• Layer decor: trays, books, candles, and vases.

• Play with contrast: soft neutrals with black or dark accents.

• Keep negative space: avoid overcrowding surfaces.

• Add greenery: olive trees, potted plants, or fresh branches.

The magic of Studio McGee design is in its approachability and elegance. Thoughtful layering, intentional details, and classic materials define every space. With these 10 IKEA hacks, you can replicate that style without a massive budget. Custom hardware, trim, paint, and styling elevate ordinary furniture into pieces that feel luxurious and timeless.

By carefully curating each space and adding subtle, inexpensive upgrades, your home can embody the warm, polished, and effortless charm that Studio McGee is known for.