White furniture doesn’t have to look boring, especially when you start with IKEA’s versatile HEMNES line. These IKEA HEMNES hacks transform basic pieces into custom furniture that looks like it came from a high-end boutique.
The beauty of HEMNES lies in its clean lines and solid wood construction. Whether you’re working with dressers, nightstands, or bookcases, these pieces practically beg for creative modifications.
From simple paint updates to complete structural changes, the possibilities are endless.
This post may contain affiliate links. See my full disclosure here for more info.
Baroque Style Elegance On Ikea Hemnes Drawers

This Ikea Hemnes makeover brings a whole new level of drama with detailed plaster appliques plastered across the drawer fronts. The creamy white paint keeps it feeling fresh while giving that old-world charm a modern twist.
The key to this look is the ornate floral and scroll reliefs arranged in a symmetrical pattern, turning a plain dresser into a gallery-worthy piece. You can find similar plaster decorations and get inspired by @theflippedpiece for tips on placement and painting techniques.
This style works wonders for those looking to add character without switching up the whole structure of the Hemnes.
Sleek Green Storage With Brass Details

This deep olive green transformation on a classic Ikea Hemnes chest proves that a fresh coat of paint can reinvent the whole vibe. The clean, crisp lines stay true to the original design but get a bold pop with this unusual color choice.
The brass knobs add a touch of warmth and elegance, contrasting beautifully with the matte finish. The baseboard molding at the bottom gives it a built-in, custom-made feel, perfect for a hallway or living room. Inspired by @flytt_av_ostergarden, this look invites a bit of Scandinavian flair with a personal twist.
Try swapping out the hardware or using chalk paint for a textured finish if you want to mix it up.
Chic Gold Trim Adds Flair To Hemnes Drawers

This Ikea Hemnes dresser gets a fabulous update with sleek gold trim around each drawer front. It’s a smart way to give the classic white Hemnes a touch of glam without going overboard.
The black knobs contrast nicely with the gold, bringing a bit of modern edge. The trim is likely a DIY addition or a product like the Lux Hax styl panels, designed especially for Ikea Hemnes hacks that spice up your storage.
This style is perfect for anyone wanting to make their Hemnes stand out in a subtle, classy way.
Mudroom Charm With A Painted Hemnes Bench

This setup turns the classic Hemnes bench into a showstopper with a rich, muted blue-gray paint that adds serious style. The natural wood seat keeps it warm, balancing out the cool tones perfectly.
Hooks line the back panel, making it easy to hang coats and bags right where you need them. Open cubbies and drawers below offer neat shoe storage, and the wicker baskets above bring a rustic touch that softens the look. This design is from House by Hoff, a perfect example of blending function with farmhouse charm.
You can swap the basket liners or pillow covers to change the vibe anytime.
Bright Sunflower Flair For Ikea Hemnes Drawers

This Ikea Hemnes dresser gets a bold personality boost with a sunflower design that sprawls across its drawers. The hack uses decoupage techniques to apply detailed floral prints, transforming plain wood into a cheerful centerpiece.
The warm yellow tones contrast beautifully against the crisp white frame, making it a perfect fit for brightening any room. Inspired by Retro Planet, this style invites you to experiment with nature-themed prints for a fresh look.
Simple white knobs keep the charm understated, letting the sunflower art shine as the star of the show.
Soft Scandinavian Style With Natural Wood Knobs

This Ikea Hemnes dresser gets a subtle makeover with smooth, round wooden knobs that add warmth to its clean white finish. The knobs offer a tactile twist that feels organic and inviting compared to standard handles.
The natural wood pairs perfectly with the minimalist design, blending a bit of Scandinavian charm into everyday furniture. This look is easy to recreate using simple wooden knobs found on Ikea’s site. It’s a quiet hack that truly elevates the whole piece.
Inspired by @huslyftet_stallgatan, this style celebrates subtlety and natural materials in home décor.
Textured Minimalism With Ikea Hemnes Cabinet Doors

This clever Ikea Hemnes hack shows how adding a slatted texture to cabinet doors can totally change the vibe. It’s a fresh take that mixes subtle detail with clean lines, perfect if you like a minimalist look with a twist.
The soft, off-white finish keeps things bright and airy, making the space feel bigger and lighter. Brass handles add a bit of warmth and sophistication, proving you don’t need much to make an impact. The inspiration comes from @collettes_home, who nailed this textured neutral style that’s easy to replicate with a few tools and some patience.
Pair it with a large round mirror and minimal art to keep the look balanced and inviting.
Textured Fronts Bring New Life To Ikea Hemnes

Forget plain drawer fronts, this Ikea Hemnes makeover adds a fresh twist with a subtle ribbed texture that catches your eye right away. The soft white paint keeps things light and airy, making the dresser feel modern yet cozy.
The gold handles add a pop of shine, elevating the whole look without going over the top. It’s a simple update that transforms the classic Hemnes, perfect for anyone wanting a stylish but approachable piece. This clever touch comes from @xomyhome, who proves small details really do matter.
Try this hack with different textures or colors to make the Hemnes truly yours.
Textured Fronts Bring New Life To Hemnes

This Ikea Hemnes chest gets a fresh makeover with a sleek, ribbed texture on its drawer fronts. The soft, muted grey paint choice gives it a calm, modern feel that fits any room style.
Adding these grooved panels transforms the familiar into something unexpected and tactile. The brass hexagonal knobs pop perfectly against the subtle texture, making it both a visual and functional upgrade. Inspired by @crack_the_shutters, this hack encourages playing with shapes and finishes for a unique piece.
Try this style if you want a clever update without losing the classic charm of your Hemnes.
Textured Wood Style For Hemnes Drawers

This Ikea Hemnes hack gives the dresser a fresh twist by adding thin vertical slats over the drawer fronts. The natural wood tone remains warm and inviting, while the texture adds a subtle, modern edge.
The knobs have been swapped for simple brushed metal ones, keeping things sleek but practical. This trick uses lightweight wood strips that can be painted or stained for different finishes, making it a versatile Ikea Hemnes remix. Inspired by @thecustombuildher, it’s a neat way to upgrade without losing that classic vibe.
It’s not just about looks; this texture also hides small scratches and marks, extending the dresser’s life.
Matte Green Makeover With Gold Accents

This fresh take on an Ikea Hemnes dresser livens up the classic shape with a rich matte green paint that feels both calm and modern. The smooth finish adds a soft, elegant vibe that’s surprisingly easy to pull off.
Swapping out the original knobs for sleek brass ones transforms the dresser instantly, giving it a bit of luxe without any fuss. The mix of earthy green paired with shiny gold punches up the style, making it a standout piece in any room. Inspiration comes from @singinginthereno, who nails this understated glam look. It’s a simple, satisfying project that even beginners can tackle.
Adding a coordinating green plant pot next to the dresser ties the whole space together with a natural touch.
Soft Ombre Drawer Fronts Add Subtle Charm

This Ikea Hemnes dresser gets a gentle twist with pastel pink ombre drawer fronts that blend beautifully into the classic white frame. It’s a fresh way to brighten a space without overwhelming it.
Paired with a floral wallpaper from The Beauty Revival, the dresser’s makeover feels both cozy and stylish. Adding small black knobs keeps the look simple and lets the soft colors pop.
This subtle Ikea Hemnes hack invites a calm, playful vibe, perfect for a bedroom or creative corner.
Chic Storage Daybed With Velvet Touch

This Ikea Hemnes daybed makeover nails that perfect blend of function and style. The muted moss green base paired with plush plum velvet bedding creates a cozy yet sophisticated vibe.
Notice how the original drawers remain fully functional, keeping clutter at bay without sacrificing design. This hack from Robinson Van Noort uses classic tones and soft textures to elevate the Hemnes’s simple silhouette.
The neutral wall panels and vintage portrait add an unexpected elegance to this comfy nook.
Two Tone Charm With White Drawer Fronts

This Ikea Hemnes dresser got a fresh vibe with a simple white paint job on the drawers, contrasting beautifully against the rich wood frame. It’s a classic mix that keeps things clean but far from boring.
The brass handles add a touch of elegance and uniqueness, making the whole piece pop. You can easily swap handles to reflect your mood or style, inspired by clever ideas from Ikeahackers. This hack is just as much about style as it is about making a statement in your living space.
Think of it like a blank canvas where paint and hardware do all the talking.
Textured Wood Makeover For Ikea Hemnes Cabinet

This Ikea Hemnes cabinet got a serious style upgrade with a clever wood veneer texture that’s anything but basic. The vertical grain adds depth and a mid-century vibe that catches the eye instantly.
Black recessed handles keep it sleek and modern, avoiding any clutter on the smooth wooden surface. This hack from Hanas Happy Home shows how layering textures can completely change the look of a classic piece, and you can try different woods or stains to customize your own version.
The rounded edges soften the whole design, making it feel warm and approachable in any room.
Marble Effect Makeover For Ikea Hemnes Drawers

Here’s a fresh take on the classic Ikea Hemnes dresser with a chic marble effect hack. The original wood drawers get a sleek upgrade by applying a marble contact paper, turning the ordinary into a statement piece.
Black knobs add a nice contrast, balancing the light, bright surface beautifully. This subtle but elegant transformation offers a minimalist vibe that fits any room style. Inspiration for this look comes from Petite and Bold, who make it look so doable and stylish.
Try swapping the marble paper for other patterns or colors to suit your personality and space.
Leather Pulls Bring New Life To Hemnes Drawers

This Ikea Hemnes dresser got a fresh twist with simple leather pulls replacing the usual knobs. The soft, natural tan leather contrasts beautifully with the muted olive paint, creating a cozy yet polished vibe.
The leather handles are easy to install and add a tactile, organic feel that changes the whole look without heavy work. This type of hack offers endless customization possibilities using affordable materials like leather straps and basic screws from any craft shop.
BeautyIll’s take on this style inspires a minimalist, warm update perfect for any room needing subtle but impactful change.
Fresh Coastal Vibes With A Hemnes Makeover

This Ikea Hemnes hack turns a classic dresser into a charming coastal changing station. Painted in a soft teal with a rich wood top, it balances function and style perfectly.
The wallpaper adds a subtle floral backdrop that complements the dresser’s cool tones without overpowering the space. The small animal prints framed above bring a playful touch to the nursery inspired by Charleston Crafted.
This setup proves Ikea Hemnes hacks can create a cozy and practical nook with just a splash of color and clever customization.
Classic Blue Painted Hemnes Drawers With Brass Knobs

Here’s a simple yet striking way to refresh your Ikea Hemnes furniture: a deep navy blue paint job that brings a bold, timeless vibe to any space. The charm ramps up with small brass knobs that add warmth and a touch of vintage flair.
This hack from @malmrosvillan uses quality satin or eggshell paint to highlight the drawer’s classic molding, making it look like a custom piece. You could swap the brass knobs for matte black or antique gold if you want to mix things up.
It’s a style that fits perfectly in both old cottages and modern homes with a cool, crafted vibe.
Matte Charcoal Makeover For Ikea Hemnes Dresser

This Ikea Hemnes hack turns a classic dresser into a statement piece with a bold matte charcoal finish. The dark, moody paint adds depth without losing the clean, modern lines the Hemnes is known for.
The wooden legs remain natural, giving a nice contrast that keeps the piece grounded and warm. This subtle tweak brings Scandinavian minimalism into a cozy, contemporary vibe inspired by Angela Rose Home.
Try this look with chalk paint and consider swapping knobs or handles for a more personal touch.
Dark Elegance With Ornate Ikea Hemnes Hacks

Turning a basic Ikea Hemnes piece into a statement of gothic charm is no small feat, but this black lacquered finish paired with decorative corner accents nails it. The deep, matte black paint gives the wood a rich, moody vibe that feels both vintage and modern at the same time.
The added ornate appliques on the corners and center are what really set this hack apart, lending an air of Victorian flair without going over the top. These accents, likely crafted from resin or wood and painted to match, bring texture and depth that make the dresser practically sculptural. This clever twist comes straight from Ikeahackers.
This style invites you to experiment with darker colors and intricate details on your own Hemnes projects.
These IKEA HEMNES hacks prove that budget furniture can look anything but cheap. With some creativity and basic tools, you’ve seen how simple modifications create stunning custom pieces.
The best part about working with HEMNES furniture is how forgiving it is for beginners. Even if you make mistakes along the way, the solid construction means you can sand, repaint, or modify again.
Your home deserves furniture that reflects your personal style, not just what’s on the showroom floor.
Related posts
-

32 Ikea Pax Hacks That Secretly Revolutionize Any Room
IKEA PAX hacks that transform basic wardrobes into custom storage masterpieces. Simple…
-



21 Ikea Koppang Hacks That Completely Reinvent Storage
IKEA Koppang hacks turn basic furniture into custom masterpieces. Transform your chest…
-



23 Sneaky Ikea Nordli Hacks Nobody Saw Coming
IKEA Nordli hacks that turn basic drawer units into custom storage masterpieces.…
-



18 Ikea Playroom Storage Hacks That Tame Pure Chaos
IKEA playroom storage hacks & ideas that actually work for busy families.…
-



14 Ikea Craft Table Hacks Every Creative Needs Now
IKEA craft table hacks that turn basic furniture into organized creative powerhouses.…
-



24 Sleek Ikea Media Center Hacks That Scream Designer
IKEA media center hacks & ideas that transform basic furniture into custom…
