Cluttered countertops are the Achilles’ heel of kitchens. Think about it. It doesn’t matter how amazing your kitchen is; if the counters are packed, any desire you had to meal prep or cook disappears.
I mean, who wants to pull out a bunch of stuff to cook when they’re already short on counter space? On top of that, it’s harder to clean, and you just feel overwhelmed. The next thing you know, you’re ordering take-out…again!
Franziska found a way to clear her counters and solve a longstanding dilemma in her kitchen — an ugly, unfinished edge along her backsplash. She was so excited to finally have a solution, she just had to share it!
What You’ll Need
- 4 IKEA NORDHÄGG picture ledges
- 2 IKEA KUNGSFORS rails
- 1 IKEA UPPDATERA box (9½” x 6¾”)
- Various IKEA KUNGSFORS hooks
- Extra hooks as needed
- Black spray paint (optional)
- Wood stain/varnish
- Adhesive/wood glue
- Screws
Smart Backsplash Storage That Looks Good and Frees Up Counterspace
1. Cut and Stain the Ledges
The hacker asked her neighbor with a wood shop to saw her picture ledges to size. You could do the same if you have a handy neighbor, or cut the ledges yourself if you have the means. Depending on the length you’re trying to cover, you may or may not need your ledges cut.
Stain the ledges the color of your choice; Franziska chose a stain that matched the other wood in her kitchen.
2. Add the Rails
Spray the KUNGSFORS rails black (optional). Line up the NORDHÄGG ledges upside down and glue them together to keep them straight and make them easier to handle. Screw the rails into the bottom of the ledges.
3. Mount the Ledges
Install the ledges according to IKEA’s instructions. Franziska measured and lined her ledges up to fit perfectly atop the exposed edge of the backsplash (the one she so desperately had been trying to hide).
4. Add Accessories
Now the really fun part! Adding all of the hooks, boxes, and other tools to create a streamlined, stylish storage solution.
How long did this hack take? About two hours (Franziska said most of the time was waiting for paint and varnish to dry)
How much did this hack cost? Approximately $60 (roughly $40 for IKEA items and $20 for miscellaneous supplies)
Q & A With the Creator
Why did you decide to hack the item?
“In my tiny kitchen, I wanted more convenient storage and to free up some valuable drawer and worktop space. I couldn’t find ready-made options to make the edge look pretty.” This option checked both boxes, giving her more prep space and hanging options for utensils and other items.
What do you like most about the hack?
Franziska loves that this hack is super easy and adjustable. You can tweak the size of the ledges and rails to fit any length you need, while keeping everything nice and sleek.
She added that there’s “so much more space on the worktop and finally a place for some of the stuff that’s been moved around constantly.” She also enjoys having a place to display postcards from friends and family.
A Hack That Works Anywhere
Even though Franziska mainly chose this hack to hide the unsightly backsplash edge, the storage aspect of it works anywhere. The picture ledge-and-rail combo is a powerhouse solution for any room in the house.
Here are a few other ways to use this hack:
- Use a waterproof, moisture-resistant stain on the ledges to use them in the bathroom. Hang loofahs and other bath tools on the hooks, and set lotions, shampoos, and other toiletries on the shelf.
- Hang the ledge by your entry, using the hooks for things like keys, dog leashes, and small umbrellas. Place a welcoming picture on the ledge or use it to prop up incoming and outgoing mail.
- In a kid’s room, the ledge can hold a few forward-facing books, and the hooks or storage boxes hold small toys and dress-up clothes.
- Put the shelf to work in a craft room, holding small paint jars and other supplies. Hang paint brushes, scissors, and small tools.
How would you put this hack to use in your home? Let us know! And if you have an IKEA DIY you’re proud of, make sure to share your hack and inspire others.
We love seeing new ideas and showcasing the creative efforts of our IKEA Hackers community!