A Hale Navy IKEA cabinet makeover can bring rich color and useful storage to a neutral home office. Two IKEA Liatorp cabinets were chosen for the room because they fit the space and cost less than other storage options considered, even with a $100 delivery fee. Painting laminate furniture takes preparation, though: without the right surface treatment and primer, paint may peel.
Planning the Hale Navy IKEA cabinet makeover
The cabinets became part of a larger office update that also included closet work, wall painting, shelving, curtains, and artwork. Before choosing a paint color, it helps to consider the room’s existing finishes and how much contrast the furniture should provide. A deep navy can stand out against light walls while still working as a classic, versatile color.
Several blue shades were sampled before Benjamin Moore Hale Navy was selected. Testing paint samples in the room is a useful way to compare colors under the space’s actual lighting. Check them at different times of day, and look at them beside nearby textiles, flooring, and artwork before settling on a shade.
How to prepare laminate IKEA furniture for paint
Paint can struggle to bond with the smooth surface of laminate furniture. The preparation used for these cabinets involved wiping the surface with liquid deglosser, applying masking liquid to the glass areas and allowing it to dry, then brushing on a coat of KILZ Adhesion primer.
Masking liquid helps protect glass from paint while the surrounding frame is coated. Apply it carefully and follow the product’s directions for drying and removal. For any similar project, check the labels on all products, work in a well-ventilated area, and test the preparation on an inconspicuous spot if you are unsure how the finish will respond.
Once the primer is ready for paint according to its instructions, choose a finish designed for furniture. Benjamin Moore Advance was selected here because it offers a hard finish and can be tinted to a chosen color. Fusion Mineral Paint was another option mentioned for those who prefer to choose from its available color range. Allow each layer to dry and cure as directed; rushing this stage can affect the final finish.
Choosing Hale Navy and styling the cabinets
Hale Navy gave the cabinets a strong color contrast while fitting into the developing office design. The cabinets were paired with DIY wall art made from a shower curtain, along with curtains, curtain rods, and a rug. Combining a bold furniture color with a few coordinated soft furnishings can help a room feel considered without making every surface compete for attention.
The cabinets also provided practical storage as the office project progressed. Before loading painted furniture, make sure the finish has had enough time to cure, not just dry to the touch. This is particularly useful for cabinet shelves and doors that will be handled regularly.
Office makeover checklist
The wider office plan included a mix of construction, painting, and finishing work. Some tasks, such as hanging curtains and painting the cabinets, were already underway or completed as the room came together. A project checklist can help keep remaining work visible and reduce the chance of overlooking final details.
- Build the pair of closets and install the closet doors
- Install closet shelving and double French doors
- Paint the walls, ceiling, and doors
- Move the air vent
- Hang artwork and curtains
- Assemble furniture and install lighting
- Decorate and style the room
As the office nears completion, the Hale Navy IKEA cabinet makeover shows how careful preparation and a considered color choice can refresh laminate storage furniture. For a durable result, focus on cleaning and priming the surface, protecting glass, and allowing the paint to cure fully before putting the cabinets into everyday use.
