DIY A Stunning Faux Fireplace Using An IKEA KALLAX Hack

Sometimes there's nothing quite as cozy as curling up in your favorite lounge chair next to the warm glow of the fireplace, especially in the middle of winter. However, many homeowners don't have this luxury since either their square footage or the design constraints of their space don't leave enough room for a traditional hearth. Though these fixtures don't serve as much practical value as they did when they were used as a central heating source, fireplaces are still key focal points in many modern and contemporary interior designs. They still add an elegant, luxurious touch to your space, even if they aren't real.

If you don't already have a proper hearth in your home, then you can build a fashionable faux fireplace from scratch instead with the help of an IKEA KALLAX shelf. TikTok user, @schereleimpapier, has a great tutorial showcasing just how exquisite and approachable this project can be. For this project, an archway for a fireplace is cut from a sheet of plywood and then this frame is attached to the sides of her shelves. The back of the shelves is then created with more plywood, and a collection of faux candles is added beneath the arch. Constructing a similar fixture for your home is a great way to give your living space a comfortable glow and make a statement with your decor.

To begin your DIY fireplace project, you'll need to pick up a pair of white IKEA KALLAX shelves, two identical-length planks of wood for the top and the base, one large sheet of plywood with a width that matches the height of the shelves, and two smaller plywood panels that will fit over the back. Put the KALLAX shelves together according to their directions before cutting the base plank to the same width as them. Then, paint all the plywood components white to match. Next, measure and cut out the arch of the faux fireplace from the middle of the larger plywood piece with a jigsaw. Consider using a beam compass, such as a JCFANTS Woodworking Compass Tool, to scribe a line on the material so that the cut comes out perfectly round.

You can start assembling your faux fireplace by attaching the two smaller plywood panels to the back of your shelves with a strong assembly adhesive, such as Unibond No More Nails Mounting Adhesive. Place the shelves on the base wood plank so that they are accessible from the sides of the furnishing. Then, mount the main plywood panel to the front of the fireplace. You can do this using the screws from the side of the KALLAX instead of drilling new holes. Place the other wooden plank on top of the unit to complete the furnishing.

Once you've assembled your new faux fireplace, you might want to consider painting it. Though white is a neutral color that blends well with a variety of interior designs, it can sometimes look a bit plain. A natural brown or brick red paint might be the perfect alternative. Make sure to review the most important steps to take before painting your woodwork before beginning this process since many of these same rules apply when working with plywood. It's also essential to select some form of electric light source for your fireplace. A set of large faux candles is an easy option. However, products like VIVOHOME's Remote-Controlled Electric Fireplace Logs will almost certainly establish a more luxurious, comfortable atmosphere.

One of the best parts of this faux fireplace design is the functional value its two side shelves will add to your living space. These furnishings are of course a great place to store books but also offer enough room for larger photo albums or magazines. You can also use plastic or woven storage baskets to keep things that frequently create clutter, such as board games, blankets, or children's toys. A few artificial plants or a collection of houseplants that you barely need to water are also easy ways to spruce up this furnishing with a relaxing touch of greenery.