This hack is all about taking things in a new direction, literally. Jim flipped the METOD vertical cabinets on their sides to create slim horizontal uppers.
After wrapping them with SINARP panels on the top and bottom and fitting them with MITTLED LEDs, they become modern kitchen storage. It’s a great solution for anybody looking for some sleek upper cabinets.
Sure, the METOD series features horizontal cabinets, but they’re taller. So this hack gives you the look with a more streamlined silhouette.
What You’ll Need
- IKEA METOD vertical cabinet (30 cm x 60 cm) — how many depends on your space
- IKEA UTRUSTA hinges with damper for horizontal doors (2 per cabinet)
- IKEA VALLSTENA, RINGHULT, or similarly compatible door (one per cabinet)
- IKEA SINARP cover panel (enough to fit the length of your connected cabinets, top and bottom)
- IKEA MITTLED LED light (how many depends on your overall cabinet length)
- Possibly other IKEA lighting components (see step 4)
- Heavy-duty adhesive
- Basics — tape measure, drill, screw gun, screwdriver, pencil, saw
The Basic Idea for Flipping the METOD Cabinets
1. Assemble and Hang the Cabinets
Put together the METOD cabinets according to IKEA’s instructions, along with the appropriate door fronts. In the US, the closest series to the METOD is the SEKTION, so you’ll need to play around with dimensions a bit to find one that fits your space.
Jim used five METOD cabinets, but you may need more or less. The biggest difference comes with the install. Instead of mounting the units vertically, hang them horizontally. Also, Jim mentions filling the holes inside the cabinet to keep water from getting in from wet dishes.
2. Add the Doors
Install the doors with the UTRUSTA horizontal door hinges. There are plenty of door options for the METOD and SEKTION cabinets, so it really depends on the look you’re going for.
3. Install the Panels
Attach the SINARP panels to the top and bottom, trimming and cutting down as needed for a nice, clean fit in the front. Use adhesive, then reinforce from the inside of the cabinets with screws to keep everything secure.
You’ll also need to mark where you want to install the lights and cut out grooves in the panel to accommodate the lights. It gives it a really custom, recessed look.
4. Know What You Need for Lights
You can install the MITTLED LED yourself; check out the easy install video on the product page. Also, determine what length you need once you have your final cabinet configuration.
You’ll also need the ANSLUTA power cord, and if you plan to connect several strips, you’ll need the VÅGDAL connection cord. If you want to go wireless, you need the TRÅDFRI LED driver to link the lights up to the IKEA Home smart app. You can also get the BILRESA remote control.
Why This Hack Works
The appeal of this IKEA hack is that it changes more than just the cabinets’ orientation. Flipping the METOD units creates a long, low profile that can make a kitchen feel more streamlined, especially when you don’t want a wall of bulky upper cabinets.
The SINARP panels also help sell the look. By running them continuously along the top and bottom, the individual cabinets start to read as one custom-built unit rather than a row of separate IKEA boxes. Adding recessed MITTLED lighting takes that effect a step further, giving the finished storage a built-in look while adding useful light to the countertop below.
Of course, there are a few things to think about before you try this hack at home.
Pay close attention to how the doors open once you mount the cabinets horizontally. Also, make sure the units are securely attached to the wall. Safety is always a top priority.
It’s also worth planning the entire configuration before cutting the panels or installing the lighting. Since the final dimensions will depend on how many cabinets you use, you don’t want to start buying things or making cuts before you’re confident of your overall plan.
Double-Check If You’re in the US
Once again, if you’re in the US, remember that METOD isn’t the standard IKEA kitchen system. SEKTION is the equivalent. But IKEA US does have the SINARP panels, MITTLED LEDs, and the various other components. So, just make sure to double-check the cabinet dimensions and how they work with the hinges, doors, and other pieces before starting.
What do you think of this hack? Would it fit your kitchen’s style and storage needs? Share it with us if you decide to give it a try!