IKEA HEMNES Hack: Double Entryway Storage for $260

IKEA HEMNES Hack: Double Your Entryway Storage

Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 4-6 hours (over a weekend)
Cost: $360–$450 depending on finish choices

Got a cramped entryway that screams "generic rental"? Here's the thing—you don't need to live with that awkward, cluttered first impression your guests get when they walk through your door. Two IKEA HEMNES shoe cabinets can solve that problem for about $360, and the finished result honestly looks like you hired a custom furniture maker.

Smart storage becomes the perfect foundation for an organized entryway that actually works for daily life. What makes this hack particularly clever is how it takes advantage of the HEMNES design—at less than 9 inches deep, it maximizes vertical space, making it ideal for tight hallway spaces where every inch matters. Those pullout compartments become your secret weapon for organizing shoes, dog leashes, umbrellas, hats, and other daily essentials while keeping everything hidden from view.

Why You'll Like This

This project transforms basic IKEA furniture into something that looks professionally built-in. The genius lies in the connection technique—when you connect them into one seamless unit, you double your storage capacity, hide wall imperfections, and create a custom built-in appearance that makes the whole space feel intentional. The compact size fits seamlessly in most hallways and foyers without overwhelming tight passages, while each cabinet costs around $180, keeping your base investment around $360.

It's one of those projects where people will genuinely ask where you bought such a nice piece of furniture—that's when you know you've nailed the custom look.

What You'll Need

Materials

• 2 IKEA HEMNES shoe cabinets (4-compartment version recommended)

• Wood filler

• Primer and paint (2 coats worth)

• 6-8 upgraded cabinet knobs or pulls

• Wall anchors (appropriate for your wall type)

• Painter's tape

• Optional: MDF board for custom top (84" x 10" x 3/4")

Tools

• Drill with bits

• Level

• Measuring tape

• Paintbrush or roller

• Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit)

• Stud finder

• Pencil for marking

Safety First

• Wear safety glasses when drilling and sanding

• Use dust masks during sanding operations

• Ensure proper ventilation when painting

• Test wall anchors in studs where possible—these cabinets need solid mounting

• Have someone help with positioning during connection phase

Steps

1. Prepare your workspace and check measurements. Clear the entryway completely and confirm both cabinets will fit side by side with about 2 inches clearance on each end.

2. Assemble the left cabinet completely. Follow IKEA's instructions exactly, including all legs and mounting hardware. This cabinet serves as your reference point for everything else.

3. Assemble the right cabinet with modification. Here's the key: assemble the right cabinet minus the left front leg—you'll connect this side directly to the left cabinet instead. It seems counterintuitive at first, but this creates the seamless connection you're after.

4. Mark connection points precisely. Use the right cabinet's hardware as a template to mark connection points on the left cabinet's right side panel. This step is crucial—take your time here because getting this right makes everything else fall into place.

5. Drill pilot holes with tape guide. Use painter's tape as a depth guide when drilling pilot holes to prevent drilling through the panel. Wrap it around your drill bit at the exact depth you need—it acts like a built-in stop and saves you from costly mistakes.

6. Connect the cabinets securely. Connect both cabinets using the right unit's original hardware, ensuring the joint feels solid before moving to the next step.

7. Test and adjust alignment. If drawers don't align perfectly, loosen connecting hardware slightly, adjust positioning, then retighten—IKEA's system allows minor corrections.

Tip: Work with a helper during the connection phase. Having someone hold the right cabinet in position while you mark and drill makes this much easier and more accurate.

Creating the Custom Built-In Look

This is where your hack transforms from "nice IKEA furniture" to "wow, where did you get that custom piece?" For the most professional appearance, install a custom top piece from stained wood, painted MDF, or a live-edge board.

If budget's tight, install the original tops side by side, fill the seam with wood filler, sand smooth, and paint over for results that still look great.

The real game-changer is this next step: fill gaps between the unit and wall with wood filler for a true built-in appearance. This eliminates the "furniture against wall" look and creates that seamless, custom-built aesthetic you're after.

Paint and Hardware That Make the Difference

Color choice can make or break this project. Paint remains the fastest way to customize IKEA furniture, and certain colors deliver exceptional results. Deep, sophisticated tones like Benjamin Moore Stone Hearth or Behr Dark Secret in Matte create that high-end cabinet look, while bold choices like Farrow & Ball's Hague Blue make a dramatic statement.

Prime and paint the entire unit in your chosen color, applying two coats for best coverage and durability. Don't skip the primer—it's the difference between paint that lasts and paint that chips off in six months.

Hardware upgrades pack a surprising punch. Swap IKEA's gray knobs for brushed gold, brass, or matte black pulls to instantly elevate the overall appearance. It's a small investment that dramatically changes the whole vibe.

Cleanup & Disposal

Dispose of paint cans and wood stain according to local hazardous waste guidelines and store leftover paint for future touch-ups. Most areas have specific drop-off sites for latex paint—don't just toss it in regular trash.

Clean brushes thoroughly and store properly wrapped. Wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth to remove dust from sanding operations.

Troubleshooting

Drawers don't align after connection: Loosen hardware slightly, adjust position, retighten. Small adjustments are normal with this connection method.

Gaps between wall and unit look obvious: Use wood filler in thin layers, let dry, sand, and repeat, then paint for a smooth seam.

Paint coverage looks uneven: Sand lightly with 220-grit paper and apply an additional coat. Two thin coats always beat one thick coat for durability.

Variations & Upgrades

• Budget version: Keep original tops, upgrade knobs and add paint—stays under $50 total for upgrades

• Premium upgrade: Custom wood top, crown molding or decorative trim, professional hardware

• Renter-friendly: Focus on paint and hardware upgrades that are reversible

• Texture upgrade: Add fluted MDF panels to doors or glued wood dowels for visual interest

• Temporary option: Consider removable vinyl wraps in marble, terrazzo, or wood grain patterns for commitment-free style changes

FAQ

Can I use the 2-compartment version instead? Yes, but you'll have less storage capacity. The connection method works the same way.

Will this work in a rental? Absolutely—focus on reversible upgrades like paint, hardware, and vinyl wraps. Avoid permanent wall modifications.

How much weight can this hold? Follow IKEA's specifications for the individual units. Confirm wall anchors are in studs where possible and that both cabinets are perfectly level before connecting for maximum stability.

This HEMNES hack proves you don't need a massive budget to create custom-looking storage that actually functions for daily life. The project delivers professional results while keeping costs reasonable, especially when you focus on the core connection technique and smart finishing touches. What I love about this particular hack is how it scales—you can keep it simple and still get great results, or go all out with custom details for something truly special. Either way, you're solving that universal entryway problem while creating something you're actually proud to show off.