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How to choose a chest of drawers

The ideal chest of drawers is about so much more than just practicality. It can be a centrepiece that adds character to your room, a place to store treasured items or a counter to display what you love. Here are some things to consider when picking out the chest of drawers that’s just right for you.

A sloped-ceiling bedroom area featuring a GULLABERG chest of 8 drawers with plants and decor arranged on top.

Blend in or make it stand out

Achieve a seamless look by choosing a chest of drawers that matches your bedroom’s aesthetic. Or, for a bold statement, go with a design that stands out from the rest of the décor.

Three TONSTAD chests with 6 drawers along a beige wall with a MODERMOLN lamp and a plant in a KLARBÄR plant pot with saucer.

Blend in or make it stand out

Achieve a seamless look by choosing a chest of drawers that matches your bedroom’s aesthetic. Or, for a bold statement, go with a design that stands out from the rest of the décor.

One chest of drawers or two, or three, or…

Some chests of drawers, such as those with a protruding top, are designed to stand alone. Others, like the flat-sided VIHALS or STORKLINTA chest of drawers, can be placed side by side. Try combining different heights or widths to create visual variety and achieve the right fit for your space.

Update and personalise

Most drawers can be fitted with different knobs or handles, which gives them a completely different look and is a great way to renew an old piece of furniture. Some solid-wood units, like RAST chest of drawers, can be personalised or refreshed with paint.

Plan ahead for a perfect fit

However big or small your space, there’s bound to be one (or two?) IKEA chest of drawers that slots in perfectly. Don’t forget to check the measurements of your space and account for skirting boards, electric sockets and other fixings that might get in the way.

Top it off!

While everything is hidden away in the drawers, don’t forget to make the most of the top surface too. Use it to display your favourite items – a vase, photos, candles, a mirror perhaps.