IKEA'S Billy bookcase is a staple in many a family home. They are a beloved classic item over the world, and one of the many reasons people love it, apart from it being really affordable, is that it's so versatile and customisable.
Because it's so popular, a lot of homes end up having the same, 'boring, white' bookcase, but it doesn't mean yours can't stand out with a bit of DIY.
Home decor designer Yvonne Ellen has shown how she has transformed the Billy bookcase into a stunning Art Deco cabinet, without breaking the bank.
With some clever hacks, Amazon products and pastel paint, she was able to breathe new life into her beloved piece of iconic furniture, turning it into a gorgeous cabinet to show off all her favourite chinaware.
To her classic Billy bookcase, Yvonne added a couple of Billy extension units and Oxberg doors, which can be purchased at IKEA.
Then she secured the bookcase and extension units to the wall with a drill.
Next, Yvonne transformed the tired-looking bookcase further by adding a lick of paint. She explained: "One affordable and creative way to do this is by using old paint you already have around the house.
"To give this neglected bookcase new life, start by cleaning off any dust or dirt, then take some pastel paint and get creative – you can layer different colours for subtle or bold contrast depending on your design goals."
Then Yvonne added rails, hooks and storage for better organisation. She said: "Think about creating a hanging space to make grabbing items easier. I installed these fab gold rails and hooks that you can get from IKEA which has made it the perfect grab-go teacup holder.
"Then add another layering of shelving such as the IKEA Palyce and IKEA Cissan, ones that can hold anything light that you don't want to take up space on the main shelves. You can never have too much storage and the more organised, the better!"
Adding lighting to the unit will add an extra bit of elegance, and it's essential to be able to see all the elements you want to display. Yvonne said: "I used battery motion-censored lights from Amazon on the part of the cupboards that weren't glass. They attach with a magnet and can be charged with a USB so no annoying wires or switches!"
Lastly, Yvonne added some finishing touches using gold leaf along the edge of the doors to fit her style. She continued: "Finally, finish off by adding some fancy handles of your choice for an extra kitsch look. I think it makes them look much more expensive and gives you another way to show off your style and creativity. Here I chose these green and gold vintage-looking handles from Anthropologie and I love how Art Deco they look!"
Now simply organise and display all your favourite pieces.
Will you be trying out this DIY hack? Let us know in the comment section below.
