A Modern Contrast: IKEA STENSTA, NICKEBO and HEJSTA Kitchen Design

20.08.2025

If you are looking for a kitchen that balances warmth with sleek modernity, this combination of IKEA STENSTA fronts in dark brown, NICKEBO cabinets in matte anthracite, and HEJSTA glass-door wall units is a striking choice. The trio creates a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, making the kitchen both functional and visually appealing.

Dark Wood Elegance with STENSTA

The STENSTA drawer fronts stand out with their rich dark brown tone and visible wood grain. The slightly rounded integrated handles bring a softer, tactile feel compared to flat panel designs, while still keeping a clean and modern look. It's a timeless choice for those who want depth and character in their kitchen.

The Sophistication of NICKEBO

On the tall cabinets and lower fronts, NICKEBO in matte anthracite provides a sleek, modern contrast. Its smooth finish emphasizes minimalism while balancing beautifully against the warmer tones of STENSTA.

Light and Texture with HEJSTA

Above the worktop, HEJSTA glass-door cabinets add a sophisticated touch. Their black frames combined with ribbed glass create a sense of depth and elegance, while softly obscuring what's inside. The result is storage that feels both open and refined – perfect for displaying items without cluttering the look.

Functional Worktop and Details

The white EKBACKEN worktop with a marble effect brightens the space and ties the dark finishes together beautifully. Integrated appliances, an induction cooktop, and a minimalist stainless-steel sink create a seamless flow. Smart internal organization, such as drawers with fitted bins for cleaning essentials, ensures that the kitchen remains both beautiful and efficient in daily use.

Smart Storage on the Opposite Wall

Directly opposite the main kitchen line, IKEA showcases a pantry and storage solution that complements the design perfectly. Here, tall NICKEBO doors in matte anthracite form a sleek storage wall. Behind them, you'll find plenty of room for larger kitchen essentials.

Open shelving, built with the ENHET frame, is styled with glass jars, spices, and dry goods – ideal for creating a stylish pantry corner. To finish the look, FÖRBÄTTRA cover panels are used on the sides, ensuring the cabinets blend seamlessly with the rest of the kitchen.

This dual layout – one side for cooking and preparation, the other for storage and pantry organization – makes the kitchen not only visually balanced but also highly functional.

Designed for Modern Living

The entire room concept is carefully thought out. The wall color in gray-blue (NCS S 2010-B70G) and the laminate flooring in gray oak effect form a calm backdrop that allows the warm wood and matte anthracite finishes to stand out.

Whether you're drawn to the tactile natural wood of STENSTA, the refined minimalism of NICKEBO, or the elegant transparency of HEJSTA, this IKEA kitchen proves how modular design can be both stylish and practical.

Why Choose IKEA STENSTA, NICKEBO and HEJSTA?

Choosing the right kitchen design is about finding the perfect balance between style, durability, and functionality. Here's why this combination stands out:

  • Timeless elegance – STENSTA's dark wood fronts bring warmth and character.

  • Modern minimalism – NICKEBO's matte anthracite finish creates a sleek, understated contrast.

  • Light and texture – HEJSTA's ribbed glass doors soften the look and add depth.

  • Smart functionality – Integrated handles, clever drawers, and elegant wall units make daily life easier.

  • Flexible storage – Combine the main kitchen line with ENHET shelving and tall NICKEBO cabinets for a complete pantry solution.

  • Seamless finish – FÖRBÄTTRA cover panels ensure clean lines and a cohesive look.

  • Durable materials – Built within the IKEA METOD system, offering long-lasting quality with modular flexibility.

The STENSTA, NICKEBO, and HEJSTA kitchen proves that you don't have to choose between cozy and contemporary – you can have both in one stunning design.

I hope you enjoyed all the photos I captured of this beautiful kitchen during Mauritz's trip to Berlin and the inspiring visit to the IKEA Tempelhof store. This design truly shows how STENSTA, NICKEBO and HEJSTA can come together to create a modern yet timeless kitchen solution.

When it comes to modern kitchen design, balance is everything. Clean lines, functional storage, and clever material choices all play their part. This IKEA HAVSTORP kitchen, photographed by Mauritz in Berlin, Germany, is a perfect example of how simplicity can meet warmth to create a space that feels both sleek and inviting.

Among IKEA's many iconic kitchen designs, the BODBYN off-white kitchen remains one of the most timeless and beloved. During my visit to the IKEA showroom in Berlin, I captured this beautifully staged interior that highlights the charm, functionality, and classic design language of BODBYN.

If you've ever stepped foot into an IKEA, you've undoubtedly encountered the LACK series. It's the silent workhorse of countless homes, the go-to for quick storage, and the ultimate proof that style doesn't have to break the bank. Forget the glossy press photos; today, we're taking a real, unfiltered look at the LACK system, straight from the...

When planning a clean and modern IKEA kitchen, many homeowners consider VEDDINGE and VALLSTENA as top contenders. At first glance, these two fronts appear nearly identical – both are flat, minimalist, and white. However, there are subtle but important differences in material, finish, color tone, and pricing that can influence your final decision.

When it comes to combining timeless elegance with modern comfort, the OSKARSHAMN wing chair from IKEA is a standout choice. This beautifully designed chair offers not only a cozy spot to relax but also adds a sophisticated touch to any room. With its classic wingback silhouette and plush cushioning, the OSKARSHAMN chair is perfect for living...