27 Genius IKEA IVAR Room Divider Hacks to Transform Your Space

IKEA’s IVAR system offers incredible versatility at an affordable price point, making it perfect for creating customized room dividers.

This simple pine shelving unit can easily transform into a stylish partition that defines spaces while adding valuable storage.

With its modular design, you can configure IVAR to fit virtually any space, from studio apartments to open-concept homes.

The untreated pine surface serves as a blank canvas for your creative vision.

Let’s explore 27 clever ways to hack the IVAR system into functional, attractive room dividers that solve storage challenges while defining different areas in your home.

1: Two-Sided Bookshelf Divider

Transform your IVAR into a double-sided bookcase that serves both adjoining spaces.

Secure shelves on both the front and back sides of the unit for maximum storage potential. This approach creates a substantial divider while maintaining an open, airy feel.

Style one side for your living area and the other for your dining or office space.

2: Fabric Panel Backdrop

Add fabric panels to the back of your IVAR unit for a soft, textile element.

Stretch fabric across wooden frames and slide them into the shelf grooves.

Choose patterns that complement your décor or opt for acoustic fabric to dampen sound.

This solution offers privacy while still allowing light to filter through the shelving sections.

3: Hinged Multi-Panel Screen

Connect multiple narrow IVAR units with hinges to create a flexible, accordion-style divider.

This configuration allows you to adjust the partition angle or fold it completely when not needed. Use varying shelf heights within each section for visual interest.

Add casters to the bottom for easy mobility around your space.

4: Planter Privacy Screen

Transform your IVAR divider into a living wall by incorporating plants throughout the shelves.

Place various potted plants on different levels to create a natural barrier between spaces. Mix trailing vines with upright plants for dimensional greenery.

The plants provide additional privacy while improving air quality and acoustics.

5: Slide-Away Storage Divider

Install sliding tracks to allow your IVAR divider to move along a wall when needed.

This clever hack creates a flexible space that can transform from open to divided in seconds.

Mount the unit on quality sliding door hardware for smooth operation.

When not needed as a divider, slide the unit flush against a wall for more open floor space.

6: Pegboard Display Panel

Attach pegboard panels to the back of your IVAR unit for added functionality.

This versatile surface accommodates hooks, shelves, and containers for customizable storage.

Use the pegboard side for your workspace and the shelving side for your living area.

Paint the pegboard to add color and visual interest to your room divider.

7: Woven Rattan Insert Panels

Replace some shelves with custom rattan panels for a bohemian, textured look.

Cut rattan webbing to size and secure it within the IVAR frame using a staple gun.

The natural material adds warmth while allowing light to filter through.

This tropical-inspired modification works beautifully in sunny spaces.

8: Integrated Desk Workspace

Incorporate a fold-down desk into your IVAR room divider for an instant home office.

Attach a hinged panel that serves as a desktop when lowered and disappears when not in use.

Position at standard desk height and add support brackets for stability.

Store office supplies on adjacent shelves for a complete workspace solution.

9: Sliding Door Cabinet Sections

Add sliding doors to certain sections of your IVAR divider to conceal less attractive items.

Install simple tracks and custom door panels that slide horizontally across shelf openings.

Mix open and closed sections for balanced visual weight.

This modification adds architectural interest while keeping clutter hidden from view.

10: Backlit Display Divider

Install LED strip lighting behind your IVAR unit to create dramatic ambient lighting.

Position lights to highlight displayed objects and create a warm glow around the divider.

Opt for battery-operated or plug-in varieties depending on outlet availability.

The backlighting transforms a simple divider into a statement piece, especially effective in evening hours.

11: Angled Room Corner Solution

Position two IVAR units at right angles to create a cozy corner that defines a reading nook.

This L-shaped configuration provides stability without attachment to walls. Style the inner corner with a comfortable chair and lamp for a defined purpose.

The outside faces can serve different areas, maximizing the divider’s functionality.

12: Mixed Material Modernization

Combine IVAR’s pine structure with metal, glass, or acrylic inserts for contemporary contrast.

Replace selected wooden shelves with these modern materials for unexpected visual interest. The mixed textures elevate the basic pine into a designer-looking piece.

This approach works particularly well in industrial or minimalist spaces.

13: Adjustable Louvered Panels

Install adjustable wooden slats that rotate to control privacy and light flow.

Attach louvered panels within the IVAR frame using simple hardware. Adjust the angle of the slats depending on privacy needs throughout the day.

This dynamic element adds architectural sophistication to the basic shelving unit.

14: Floating Divider Installation

Secure your IVAR unit to the ceiling to create a floating room divider effect.

This dramatic installation preserves floor space while clearly defining different areas. Add additional support braces to ensure safety and stability.

The open space beneath creates a sense of flow while still providing visual separation.

15: Chalkboard Communication Center

Transform the back panel of your IVAR divider into a functional chalkboard surface.

Apply chalkboard paint to a smooth panel and insert it into the IVAR frame. Use this interactive surface for family messages, meal planning, or creative expression.

Position the chalkboard side toward your kitchen or dining area for maximum functionality.

16: Integrated Bar Cabinet

Convert part of your IVAR room divider into a compact bar for entertaining.

Install wine glass racks, bottle storage, and a fold-down mixing surface. Add mirror backing to certain sections to reflect light and create depth.

This social hub works well between living and dining areas.

17: Slatted Screen Design

Replace solid back panels with evenly spaced vertical slats for a semi-transparent effect.

This architectural element provides definition while maintaining airflow and light. The rhythmic pattern adds visual interest and Japanese-inspired aesthetics.

Paint the slats in ombré tones for a contemporary gradient effect.

18: Rolling Library Partition

Add quality casters to your IVAR bookshelf divider for mobility around your space.

Fill with books arranged by color for both function and visual impact. Ensure proper bracing to maintain stability when moving the loaded shelves.

This mobile solution works perfectly for renters who cannot make permanent modifications.

19: Fabric Hanging Room Divider

Thread fabric panels through the IVAR frame to create a soft, textile-based partition.

Select lightweight fabrics that complement your color scheme and allow some light through. Secure at top and bottom while allowing gentle movement in between.

This softer approach offers flexibility and acoustic benefits in hard-surfaced rooms.

20: Media Center Divider

Transform your IVAR unit into an entertainment hub that serves adjoining spaces.

Install a swiveling TV mount that can rotate to face either side of the divider. Add cable management solutions and electronic equipment storage in nearby cubbies.

This dual-purpose solution maximizes functionality in smaller homes.

21: Geometric Cut-Out Panels

Create custom panels with interesting geometric cutouts to replace standard IVAR backs.

These designer-inspired panels filter light while adding artistic elements to your space. Paint in contrasting colors to emphasize the geometric patterns.

The shadows cast by these panels add another dimension of visual interest.

22: Kid-Friendly Activity Station

Design one side of your IVAR divider specifically for children’s activities and storage.

Add a chalkboard panel, art supply storage, and display space for creations. Position at child-appropriate heights for independent access.

This dedicated area contains play materials while keeping adult spaces organized.

23: Macramé Woven Divider Panels

Incorporate macramé or woven fiber panels within the IVAR framework for bohemian style.

Stretch handcrafted textile art across sections of the divider for textural interest. The semi-transparent nature maintains connection between divided spaces.

This artisanal touch personalizes the mass-produced furniture with handmade elements.

24: Sliding Track Room Separator

Mount your IVAR system on ceiling tracks to create a movable wall that glides open and closed.

This architectural solution offers maximum flexibility for changing space needs. Use multiple units side by side for wider coverage areas.

When fully closed, it functions as a wall; when open, your space expands instantly.

25: Picture Frame Display Divider

Transform the back of your IVAR unit into a gallery wall that enhances both sides.

Attach various sized frames containing artwork, photos, or mirrors to the divider back. Arrange in a pleasing composition that balances visual weight.

This personalized element adds character while maintaining the unit’s primary function.

26: Climbing Plant Trellis

Add wire grid panels to your IVAR frame, creating a support structure for climbing plants.

Position potted climbing vines at the base and train them to grow up the trellis. Over time, the living element creates natural privacy and improved air quality.

This biophilic design connects interior spaces with natural elements.

27: Gradient Colored Storage Divider

Paint your IVAR unit in a gradient of color tones for a contemporary ombré effect.

Start with the darkest shade at the bottom, gradually transitioning to lighter tones at the top.

This visual technique draws the eye upward, making ceilings appear higher.

The colorful treatment transforms the basic pine into a custom designer piece.

Conclusion

These 27 IKEA IVAR room divider hacks offer creative solutions for defining spaces while adding functionality and style.

Whether you need privacy, storage, or simply visual separation, these customizable ideas will help you maximize your IVAR’s potential.