Should I Buy an IKEA Kitchen? Yes!

What Are the Benefits of an IKEA Kitchen?

• IKEA Sektion kitchen cabinets are an affordable and flexible solution that pair perfectly with Plykea products. Built from melamine-coated particleboard — a strong, durable material — IKEA’s cabinets offer exceptional value and peace of mind with a free 25-year warranty.

• Their appliances come with a 5-year warranty (2 years for the LAGAN and TILLREDA ranges), which is more generous than most brands. Appliances are manufactured by Electrolux or Whirlpool, so quality and compatibility are assured.

• Hardware that performs – IKEA’s hinges are made by Blum, a top-tier Austrian hardware company renowned for precision and longevity. Designed for smooth, reliable operation, these hinges also come with a 25-year warranty, ensuring durability and confidence in every installation.

• The modular Sektion system offers endless configuration possibilities, allowing you to design a kitchen that fits your space and lifestyle perfectly. And thanks to IKEA’s consistent product range, you can easily add to or modify your kitchen in years to come.

• For the design-savvy DIYers: IKEA makes “hacking” easy. For example, you can repurpose a row of 30 or 36"-high Sektion top cabinets (normally used above fridges) as base cabinets with Maximera drawers — a smart way to create affordable banquette seating.

Is an IKEA Kitchen a Good Idea?

Absolutely. For most people, an IKEA kitchen strikes the perfect balance of cost-effectiveness, practicality, and style.

A beautifully designed kitchen isn’t just about looks — it’s about creating a space that works seamlessly for your lifestyle. With Plykea x IKEA, you can enjoy the craftsmanship and warmth of plywood design combined with IKEA’s smart storage and ergonomic planning.

Transform your IKEA Sektion base into something extraordinary with Plykea’s bespoke plywood fronts and countertops. Choosing from over 100 colors and finishes, your kitchen can be truly one-of-a-kind.

Plykea also offers:

• Multiple handle options
• Custom-sized doors (e.g., to extend units to ceiling height)
• Bespoke extras like Ürtil modular shelving (coming soon!)

All of this combines to create a bespoke aesthetic — without the bespoke price tag.

What Does IKEA Do Well?

IKEA’s reputation for smart, affordable design is well deserved. Their kitchens are:

• Functional and flexible — cabinets can be reconfigured and shelves adjusted even after fitting.

• Packed with smart storage — think carousels, pull-out pantries, internal drawers, and wire baskets that turn chaos into calm.

• User-friendly — soft-close hinges, adjustable legs, and smart accessories like the VÅGLIG connector, which allows you to add and align drawer fronts to the dishwasher, creating an uninterrupted, seamless row of drawers across your kitchen.

• Accessible — you can plan your own kitchen using their online tools or book a free design appointment in-store or online. IKEA’s team are experts at problem-solving without compromising design aesthetics.

Are There Any Limitations to an IKEA Kitchen?

Like any modular system, IKEA kitchens have a few limitations — but they’re easy to overcome.

• Cabinet sizes come in set widths (12, 15, 18, 24, 30, or 36"). But these can be adapted by your installer, and Plykea can make custom doors to suit modified or non-standard units.

• Some builders may dislike flat-pack kitchens, but they’re actually more sustainable than pre-built options — using less packaging, less transport space, and producing a lower carbon footprint.

• Material quality — while particleboard isn’t as durable as plywood or solid wood, IKEA’s 25-year warranty ensures it will stand the test of time.

• IKEA cabinets don’t include a rear service void for plumbing or wiring. However, your installer can set the cabinets slightly off the wall to allow pipes and cables to run behind. At Plykea, we make our countertops and cover panels slightly deeper to neatly conceal this gap. The advantage of IKEA’s no-void construction is that you benefit from the full interior depth of the base cabinet.

Are There Any Items You Shouldn’t Source from IKEA?

While IKEA’s foundations are excellent, a few elements are worth sourcing elsewhere for quality or design reasons:

• Bins: A 30" high waste bin drawer can feel a bit wobbly or prone to flexing, as it’s only secured at the base. We recommend looking at Häfele alternatives for a sturdier solution.

• Handles: IKEA’s range is basic. Upgrading to premium handles instantly elevates the space.

• Fronts: IKEA’s finishes are limited compared to fully bespoke options, but combining them with Plykea’s fronts gives you the best of both worlds. Our fronts have the same hinge cups and fixing holes as IKEA’s, making the installation a piece of cake!

Why IKEA x Plykea Just Works

An IKEA kitchen provides a strong, affordable foundation for your dream space. With smart planning, thoughtful upgrades, and the addition of Plykea’s beautifully crafted plywood elements, you can create a kitchen that’s both functional and full of character — a perfect blend of Scandinavian simplicity and bespoke design.