In a mindblowing hack, a savvy DIY couple has transformed IKEA’s bestselling Billy Bookcase into a designer-look masterpiece.

Sharing the project on TikTok, the couple explained that they used two Billy Bookcases, four extensions and two Havsta Cabinets to create the bookshelf frame.

Prepare for painting early

‘We sanded back all the furniture before we put it together so that it would be easier to paint, then we stacked it against the wall to see how it would fit.”

“Because of our ceiling height, we had to cut one of the extensions in half, one on each side.”

From there, it was a matter of removing the picture rails on the existing wall to create a flush surface and fitting the bookshelves into place.

Celebrity inspiration

Inspired by Rachel Martino‘s showstopping magenta bookcase, the couple used plywood sheets from Bunnings to cut custom arches for both bookshelves. They stencilled and cut the arches themselves using the string-and-pencil method and a jigsaw.

“We also did plywood on the sides so that it would be really flush and smooth.”

The couple chose to paint the bookshelves with Dulux Angora Blue, bringing an instant calm and refreshing focal point to the room. To finish it off neatly, they added a Gyrock cornice and painted it with the same dreamy blue.

Perfect styling

Then it was just a matter of doing all the finishing touches. This included attaching the cabinet doors and spray-painting the Havsta Cabinet handles gold so that they pop against the blue backdrop.

The couple styled the bookcases using matching vases, photo frames, indoor trailing plants, and of course, plenty of books.

This Billy hack delivers glorious colour, trending arches and loads of essential storage space. And it goes to show that with a little know-how, a designer-look bookshelf doesn’t need to cost the Earth.

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After more inspiration? Check out our Renos & Builds collection to see how other Australians are renovating their homes.