The Trendy IKEA Kitchen Cabinets An Interior Designer Recommends Avoiding

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IKEA sometimes misses the mark with its budget-friendly home decor items. However, this doesn't deter shoppers from frequenting the store and taking advantage of its affordable prices. Before braving the IKEA aisles, consider taking a peek at what the experts have to say about some of the pieces the retailer offers. Interior designer Phoenix Orion Grey took to social media to share that he doesn't recommend the look featured as part of an in-store kitchen cabinet display that included the HEJSTA glass doors, which are intended to be paired with cabinets from the SEKTION kitchen series.

In a video shared to Instagram, Grey explained that the problem with this pairing is the white cabinet interior that can be seen from outside the reeded glass doors. According to Grey, the visible white interior doesn't look high-end. The expert did clarify that he's typically a fan of reeded glass. However, in this case, the bright white interior cheapens the overall look. Opt for cabinets that are the same color inside and out for a more elevated look.

Reeded glass is a classic Art Deco feature that adds texture to a space. Unfortunately, the reeded glass in IKEA's HEJSTA doors does not live up to its full potential due to the white cabinet interior behind it. If you've seen reeded glass installed over cabinets with matching interior and exterior colors, you know there's a clear difference in visual appeal.

To solve this problem, you can simply paint the SEKTION cabinets before installing the HEJSTA glass door over them. All you'll need to do is sand and prime with bonding primer, then finish with a water-based or acrylic paint. These particle board painting hacks will leave you with a clean finish on your cabinets.

Alternatively, you can choose a different reeded glass cabinet with a darker or color-matched interior. The Wetiny Wall Cabinet is a great pick. It features a black interior that blends seamlessly with its matching black exterior. Although this product looks more expensive than the IKEA cabinet, it's actually affordably priced at about $135. This may be a better choice for those who prefer not to paint the SEKTION cabinet interior.