This New IKEA Find Is So Versatile, You Can Use It in Every Room

Sunrise, Florida, USA - June 26, 2020: IKEA South Florida storefront. Companies that are hiring during COVID-19 The COVID-19 pandemic has hit workers in the U.S. hard.
Credit: YES Market Media/Shutterstock Credit: YES Market Media/Shutterstock

One thing that makes the all-time IKEA greats so, well, great is that they’re supremely versatile. The IKEA BILLY bookcase, for instance, works in living rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, and more. The IKEA IVAR, too, can be plopped just about anywhere. That’s why when I saw this new IKEA product, I immediately pegged it as the next IKEA classic.

The HATTÅSEN is marketed as a bedside table, but this little two-shelf unit has the potential for so much more. It reminds me of the Open Spaces entryway rack in that sense: You could slot this little shelf unit anywhere it’s handy, and easily pick it up and move again later if you find it could be more useful somewhere else. Unlike the Open spaces version, though, this little side table costs just $25.

HATTÅSEN Bedside Table/Shelf Unit
HATTÅSEN Bedside Table/Shelf Unit

HATTÅSEN Bedside Table/Shelf Unit

$24.99 at IKEA

The HATTÅSEN comes in six colors, which are a mix of your basic neutrals and a couple peppy hues (this bright turquoise and this bubblegum pink). But the powder-coated steel finish would be a breeze to spray paint in basically any color you like; just make sure you choose a paint that’s formulated for use on metal.

That powder-coated steel construction is another thing that makes HATTÅSEN an instant classic. Unlike the BILLY, which is MDF, or IVAR, which is wood, the HATTÅSEN table can actually be used outside. While you’ll have to watch for rust, you won’t need to worry about mildew (as you do with wood) or complete collapse (as you do with the notoriously un-water-friendly MDF).

But the real question: What’s the hack potential? Well, aside from spray paint, this little table seems like it would be a perfect candidate for a DIY tile finish. (Imagine it with tiled shelves and stacked with plants!) Those looking for a simpler customization option could always use contact paper in a cool marble or terrazzo finish.

Even as is, though, this shelf makes a cute addition to basically any room and fits a huge range of styles. I’m predicting this one’s going to be a go-to for IKEA lovers this year!