Argomenti trattati
Upon entering this home, visitors encounter an intriguingL-shaped wallthat establishes the decor’s tone. Inspired by Anna, a creative neighbor who transformed her space with a unique installation, I felt compelled to create a similar feature.
The idea centers on afauxdenza, which consists of IKEA kitchen cabinets mounted onto the wall, creating the illusion of a floating credenza. This innovative design enhances the aesthetic appeal of the living space while providing ample storage for various items.
Planning the installation
After careful measurements and planning, it became clear that we could fit two36” x 18” cabinetson the wall, leaving a 6-inch margin on either side for a balanced appearance. Though I initially envisioned fitting more cabinets, this arrangement still offered a generous amount of storage.
Gathering materials
To bring this project to fruition, I sourced the following components: twoAkurum wall cabinets(each measuring 36” x 18”), fourApplad doors, integral hinges, oneAkurum suspension rail, and a long piece of wood for the top. With the necessary tools and materials on hand, we were ready to begin the installation.
Mounting the cabinets
The installation process commenced with mounting the cabinets to the wall, adhering to the detailed instructions provided by IKEA. However, we encountered a minor setback: our suspension rail was about four inches longer than required, necessitating a quick saw adjustment to achieve the correct length.
As we positioned the cabinets, we ensured they were level, using shims to address any discrepancies in the wall. Fortunately, the wood added later concealed most of these minor flaws, resulting in a seamless finish.
Choosing the right wood
After several weeks of deliberation and searching, we finally selected a stunning piece of walnut from House of Hardwood. Custom ordering was necessary to obtain a slab that was both long and deep enough, ultimately having it cut to precise dimensions of71 29/32”for the main piece and17 3/4”for the side accents. The rich grain of the walnut contributed an elegant touch to our fauxdenza.
I applied Danish oil to the wood, enhancing its natural beauty and depth. The result was breathtaking, as the oil accentuated the rich tones and textures of the walnut.
Securing the structure
Once the wood was prepared, my partner took the lead in securing it to the cabinets. He drilled pilot holes into the interior of the cabinets and used six1” screwson the sides to anchor the wood firmly in place. I played a crucial role by holding the side pieces steady while he worked on the butt joint, ensuring everything aligned perfectly.
As we stepped back to admire our handiwork, we felt a sense of accomplishment. The fauxdenza not only served a functional purpose but also became a stunning focal point that transformed our living area.