Easy IKEA Hack: Functional Entryway Closet Makeover

Today we are sharing all about our entryway closet makeover! We used an IKEA hack to give this space more storage and functionality.
*This post contains affiliate links. When you buy something from our links, we may get an affiliate commission — but it never affects your price or what we recommend. Read our affiliate disclosure here.
Our entryway closet was in desperate need of attention. It was messy, unorganized, and filled with items that didn’t belong.


I literally didn’t even know what was on the floor and shoved beside the shelving unit.
Like many builder-grade closets, it came with a simple wire shelf and rod, which wasn’t enough to meet our needs.
Not only did we store coats here, but it was also home to pet supplies, first aid kits, batteries, and random odds and ends.
Frankly, it was an eyesore every time we opened the door. And because it is used so often, my kids are constantly opening the doors to get something and then leaving them open.
So, I spent about half my day (slight exaggeration!) walking to the closet to shut the doors so I didn’t have to see the mess.
To tackle this space and make it functional, we used an affordable IKEA hack to transform it into a closet that works for our family. Here’s how we did it, step by step:
Functional Entryway Closet Makeover
Tools and Supplies Needed for the Entryway Closet Makeover
Tools
Pliers
Flat-head screwdriver
Wall filler application tool (e.g., putty knife)
Sandpaper
Paintbrush and/or roller
Measuring tape
Miter saw
Drill
Drywall anchors and screws
Nail gun
Wood glue
Supplies
IKEA Expedit (or Kallax) shelving unit with five cubes
White Melamine wood (4×8 sheet, cut to size)
PVC trim for shelf edge
Wall filler/spackle
Paint (leftover or new, depending on preference)
Storage boxes/containers for cubes and shelf organization
Wooden dowel (for coat rods)
Wall brackets with rod holders (minimum of 4 brackets)
Step 1: Clear Out the Closet
The first thing I did was empty the entire closet.

This included pulling out coats, random items I had shoved in there over time, and the pet supplies and emergency kits.
Seeing the empty space made it clear how unfunctional it was and gave me a fresh start to work with!
Step 2: Remove the Wire Shelf and Rod

I tackled the wire shelf and rod next. Removing these was tricky but doable with some patience.
This is a ClosetMaid system- I found that a pair of pliers and a flat head screwdriver worked to get the brackets and plugs out.
Once the shelf and rod were out, I was left with several holes in the wall that needed attention.
Step 3: Patch and Paint the Walls

Using wall filler, I patched up the holes left behind by the wire shelving. After it dried and I sanded it smooth, I decided to paint the walls to give the space a fresh look.
I used leftover Benjamin Moore VanCourt Blue paint (from my sons’ room makeover), which added a nice pop of color to the closet interior!
My kids always want to help with painting- I figured a closet was a good place to let them assist as most of it could be easily hidden between coats and storage!

Step 4: Create a New Shelving Unit with an IKEA Expedit/Kallax

To add structure and storage, I repurposed an IKEA Expedit unit with five cubes. We used these for toys, but we have two and thanks to decluttering, I was able to fit everything down into one!
These are now called Kallax at IKEA, but they may no longer have the five-cube available.
These from Amazon are very similar.
I placed it vertically in the center of the closet, creating a base for the new shelf. This gave me tons of new storage using verticle space and the large cube organizers.
I love how versatile IKEA shelving units and drawers are- this is my favorite IKEA hack for our window seat storage!!
Step 5: Add a Custom Wood Shelf

Daniel helped take this project to the next level. He bought a 4 x 8 foot white Melamine board from Home Depot, and cut it slightly wider than the shelving unit, and to the length of the closet.

We placed it on top of the Expedit unit to create a shelf. To give it a polished look, we added a PVC molding trim piece to the front edge of the shelf.
We attached the trim piece with wood glue and a nail gun.

Step 6: Secure the Shelf with Brackets

To ensure the shelf was sturdy, I attached four wall brackets (two on each side of the Expedit unit).
These brackets also came with rod holders, which were key to the next step.
Step 7: Install Two Rods for Hanging Coats

I purchased one 44″ long wooden dowel, cut it into two sections using a miter saw, and fitted the pieces into the rod holders on the shelf brackets.

This gave us two separate sections to hang coats on either side of the Expedit unit, maximizing the space.
Step 8: Organize the Closet

With the structure in place, I added storage boxes to the cubes in the Expedit unit for items we regularly store in this closet.
I used containers on the shelf for smaller items and organized the contents so everything had a proper place.

I also got rid of unnecessary clutter, and our extra coats, which was a huge step in my ongoing mission to de-junk our home!
Step 9: Added Floor Storage
The new design even left space on the floor! On one side, I now store my mop vacuum, and on the other, I have room for shoes or other items that fit our family’s daily needs.
The Finished Entryway Closet

What used to be a chaotic, overstuffed space is now functional and organized. This project was affordable and made a huge difference in how we use the closet.
By combining creativity and a simple IKEA hack, we’ve transformed an eyesore into a practical storage solution.

If you’re looking to give your entryway closet a makeover, don’t underestimate the power of a little organization, creativity, and some DIY effort!

Pin It!
