2 Designers Transform The Same IKEA Billy Bookcase | Custom Crafted | Architectural Digest

TL;DR

Two designers take on the challenge of hacking an Ikea bookcase, resulting in an art deco-inspired, sculptural piece with unique design elements.

Transcript

hi my name is drew scott of lone fox and i would describe my style as attainable diy and eclectic my name is leonard bessemer i'm a furniture designer and i describe my style as sculptural animated and indulgent so what do you think when you found out you have to hack an ikea bookcase i was honestly excited first of all because the billy popped in ... Read More

Key Insights

• 💟 The designers aimed to turn the Ikea bookcase into a unique, visually appealing piece by giving it a sculptural shape and retro art deco elements.
• 💄 The project was completed using simple tools and affordable materials, making it accessible for DIY enthusiasts.
• 😒 The use of edge banding and pull wrap added texture and design elements to the bookcase.
• 🤩 Shellac primer was a key tool in painting the bookcase, allowing for easy application and a professional finish.
• 💆 The project demonstrates the potential to repurpose and transform mass-produced furniture into personalized and stylish pieces.
• ❓ Attention to detail, such as reinforcing the structure and addressing the back panel, ensured the final product was sturdy and visually appealing.
• 💁 The designers' focus on both form and function is evident in the consideration of the bookcase's visual presence and its practical usage as a storage piece.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did the designers approach the challenge of hacking an Ikea bookcase?

The designers were excited about the challenge and sought to give the bookcase a life of its own by transforming it into a unique piece with a retro art deco flair.

Q: What materials and tools did they use for the project?

They used plywood, edge banding, domino connectors, pull wrap, shellac primer, and basic power tools such as a jigsaw and nail gun.

Q: How did they create the sculptural shape of the bookcase?

They used a template to cut out half-circle shapes from plywood, which were then attached to the bookcase to create the desired shape. They also reinforced the structure using brackets and the Domino connect system by Festool.

Q: How did they address the pre-finished surface of the Ikea bookcase?

To deal with the glossy laminate finish, they used shellac primer, which allowed them to paint over the surface without the need for sanding or priming.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Two designers, Drew Scott and Leonard Bessemer, take on the challenge of hacking an Ikea bookcase, specifically the Billy bookcase.

• The designers aim to transform the bookcase into a unique, sculptural piece with a retro art deco vibe.

• They use simple tools and budget-friendly materials to create the final product, making it easily replicable.