27 Genius IKEA IVAR Room Divider Hacks That Will Transform Your Space Today

Looking to divide your open-concept space without committing to permanent walls?

IKEA’s versatile IVAR system offers the perfect solution at a fraction of the cost of construction.

This simple pine shelving unit transforms into stylish room dividers with just a few tweaks and creative thinking.

Let’s explore 27 clever IVAR hacks that will help you create distinct zones in your home while adding storage, style, and functionality.

1: Two-Sided Bookshelf Divider

Position an IVAR unit perpendicular to your wall to instantly create two separate spaces.

Add shelving on both sides to maximize storage and allow each room zone to have its own dedicated display area.

Style one side for office supplies and the other for living room décor to clearly define each space’s function.

2: Woven Cane Panel Insert

Transform your IVAR into a designer piece by replacing the solid pine backs with woven cane webbing.

Cut the cane material slightly larger than each section and secure it with a staple gun around the edges.

This modification allows light to filter through while still providing visual separation between spaces.

3: Rolling Room Partition

Add heavy-duty casters to the bottom of your IVAR unit to create a mobile room divider.

Choose locking wheels that support adequate weight and can be secured when you’ve found the perfect position.

This flexibility allows you to reconfigure your space for different activities or occasions within minutes.

4: Paint Color-Block Effect

Create visual interest by painting different sections of your IVAR divider in complementary or contrasting colors.

Use painter’s tape to achieve clean lines between color blocks for a professional-looking result.

Choose colors that coordinate with your existing décor on each side to visually connect the divider to both spaces.

5: Fabric Panel Privacy Screen

Install tension rods between IVAR shelves and hang fabric panels for adjustable privacy levels.

Select fabrics that complement both rooms the divider separates while providing the desired level of opacity.

Use multiple panels that can be pulled open or closed as needed throughout the day for versatile light control.

6: Display Cabinet Conversion

Add IKEA glass doors to your IVAR divider to create a sophisticated display cabinet that works from both sides.

Install interior lighting strips to highlight your collections and add ambient lighting to both rooms.

Arrange decorative items facing both directions to ensure the divider feels intentional from any angle.

7: Plant Wall Oasis

Transform your IVAR unit into a living wall by dedicating its shelves to houseplants of varying sizes.

Install grow lights under each shelf to ensure all plants receive adequate light regardless of room orientation.

Add small trays or liners to prevent water damage when caring for your green divider wall.

8: Desk-Shelf Combo

Integrate a desk surface into your IVAR room divider by installing a wider board at the appropriate height.

Position the desk side toward your work area while using the opposite side for living space storage.

This dual-purpose solution maximizes functionality in small spaces without requiring separate furniture pieces.

9: Slatted Wood Screen Effect

Create an architectural feature by adding vertical wooden slats to the back of your IVAR unit.

Space the slats evenly for a modern look that allows light to filter through while maintaining privacy.

Stain or paint the slats to match or contrast with the original pine for added design impact.

10: Pegboard Organizational Wall

Replace the standard IVAR back with pegboard to add flexible organization options to both sides.

Add hooks, small shelves, and hanging accessories that can be reconfigured as your needs change.

Color-code each side’s pegboard accessories to visually reinforce the different zones you’re creating.

11: Wallpapered Statement Divider

Transform your IVAR unit into a design feature by applying bold wallpaper to the back panels.

Choose different patterns for each side to complement the respective room functions and styles.

Seal the wallpaper with clear matte polyurethane for durability, especially in high-traffic areas.

12: Hidden Door Secret Passage

Create intrigue by mounting one section of your IVAR unit on hidden hinges to function as a door.

Install magnetic latches to keep the “door” securely closed when not in use for a seamless look.

Use this clever feature to connect rooms while maintaining the appearance of a solid room divider.

13: Built-In Pet Habitat

Dedicate portions of your IVAR divider to integrated pet areas like cat climbing shelves or a dog den.

Create custom openings between sections that allow your pets to navigate between rooms.

Line pet areas with washable materials to make cleaning simple while maintaining the divider’s style.

14: Media Center Division

Turn your IVAR room divider into an entertainment center that serves both divided spaces.

Install a swivel TV mount in the center section that can rotate to face either room as needed.

Add cord management solutions to keep electronic cables organized and out of sight from both sides.

15: Japanese Shoji Screen Inspired

Replace solid panels with rice paper or translucent acrylic sheets framed in thin wood for a shoji screen effect.

Maintain the IVAR’s structural integrity while creating a light-diffusing barrier between spaces.

This modification adds a serene, minimalist aesthetic that works beautifully in contemporary interiors.

16: Bar Cabinet Conversion

Transform your IVAR divider into a functional bar that serves both connected spaces.

Install wine glass racks, bottle storage, and a fold-down serving surface accessible from either side.

Add mirror backing in some sections to reflect light and create the illusion of more space.

17: Sliding Panel System

Install a track system allowing panels to slide across your IVAR divider for adjustable privacy levels.

Use materials like frosted acrylic, fabric, or thin wood panels that can stack to one side when not needed.

This modification maintains the open concept feel while providing privacy options when desired.

18: Charging Station Integration

Build power management directly into your IVAR divider with strategically placed outlets and USB ports.

Create dedicated charging stations on both sides with custom cutouts for cable management.

This practical addition eliminates cord clutter while making technology accessible in both divided spaces.

19: Geometric Cutout Design

Create visual interest by cutting geometric patterns into the back panels of your IVAR unit.

The openings allow light and visibility between spaces while maintaining the divider function.

Paint the edges of the cutouts in contrasting colors to emphasize the design element from both sides.

20: Homework Station Divider

Create a family-friendly divider with one side dedicated to children’s homework organization.

Install a fold-down desk surface, paper organizers, and supply storage accessible from the kids’ area.

Use the opposite side for adult storage, maintaining a cohesive look appropriate for main living areas.

21: Soundproofing Solution

Enhance your IVAR divider’s functionality by adding acoustic panels to reduce sound transfer between spaces.

Cover the panels with decorative fabric that complements each room’s design scheme.

This practical modification is perfect for separating work-from-home areas from family living spaces.

22: Indoor Greenhouse Divider

Install glass or clear acrylic panels to create a greenhouse effect within your IVAR room divider.

Add grow lights and humidity controllers for an ideal environment for tropical or rare plants.

This living divider creates a stunning visual feature while improving air quality throughout your space.

23: Wardrobe Room Separator

Transform your IVAR unit into a functional wardrobe that divides your bedroom into separate zones.

Add clothing rods, hooks, and specialized storage accessories for an organized closet system.

Install mirrors on one side to create a dressing area while using the other side for bedroom storage.

24: Art Gallery Display

Turn your divider into a rotating art gallery by installing picture ledges or clips on both sides.

Create a system that allows you to easily switch out artwork, photographs, or children’s creations.

This approach keeps your space feeling fresh while showcasing your personal style from every angle.

25: Macramé Fiber Art Integration

Weave macramé panels between IVAR shelves for a bohemian-inspired room divider with texture.

Combine solid shelving sections with open fiber art areas for a balance of privacy and openness.

This handcrafted touch adds warmth and artistic flair to what began as simple pine shelving.

26: Lighting Feature Installation

Transform your IVAR divider into a lighting feature by integrating LED strips, pendant lights, or sconces.

Create custom cutouts for light fixtures that illuminate both divided spaces simultaneously.

Program smart lighting elements to change color or intensity based on activities in each zone.

27: Home Office Command Center

Convert your IVAR into a comprehensive work station that clearly separates office from living space.

Install a bulletin board, filing system, and desktop that faces your work area for productivity.

Use the opposite side for home organization with family calendars, mail slots, and household supply storage.

Conclusion

With these creative IVAR hacks, you can define your space while adding style, storage, and functionality—all without permanent construction or breaking your budget.

Time to transform your open concept home!