IKEA has officially begun phasing out the beloved MALM series, replacing it with a new and safer alternative: STORKLINTA. But what exactly is different between these two lines of bedroom furniture? Here's everything you need to know if you're considering a switch or just curious about the change.
GULLABERG vs HEMNES – Which IKEA Dresser Comes Out on Top?

As IKEA begins phasing out long‑standing favorites like the HEMNES series, many shoppers are wondering what the replacements really offer. One such newcomer is GULLABERG, a new line of dressers and bedroom storage that brings a more modern construction while keeping a traditional aesthetic.
GULLABERG currently comes in several versions—excluding nightstands—that vary by drawer count and layout:
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3‑drawer chest – tall, compact vertical layout
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6‑drawer chest – tall vertical format
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6‑drawer dresser – wide, low horizontal layout
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8‑drawer dresser – large, wide horizontal layout
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8‑drawer chest – tall vertical version
But how does GULLABERG really compare to the iconic HEMNES 8-drawer dresser? Let's take a closer look at both design and dimensions to help you decide.
Overall Dimensions
Let's start with the basic size comparison between the two 8-drawer dressers.
GULLABERG
• Width: 66 1/8" (168 cm)
• Depth: 18 7/8" (48 cm)
• Height: 39 3/8" (100 cm)
• Height under furniture: 7 7/8" (20 cm)
HEMNES
• Width: 63" (160 cm)
• Depth: 19 5/8" (50 cm)
• Height: 37 3/4" (96 cm)
• Height under furniture: 4 3/8" (11 cm)
GULLABERG is slightly wider and taller, giving a more substantial presence. However, HEMNES has a bit more depth, which may impact room layout in smaller bedrooms.

Drawer Measurements and Storage
While both dressers offer 8 drawers, the internal dimensions tell a slightly different story.
GULLABERG
• Drawer depth (inside): 15" (38 cm)
• Drawer width (inside): 28" (71 cm)
• Drawer pull-out: 9" (23 cm)
• Storage capacity: 8.9 cu.ft
HEMNES
• Drawer depth (inside): 15 3/4" (40 cm)
• Drawer width (inside): Not officially listed
• Drawer pull-out: 9 7/8" (25 cm)
• Storage capacity: 9.5 cu.ft
HEMNES edges out GULLABERG when it comes to total storage capacity. The drawers are slightly deeper and pull out further, making better use of the full interior space.

Design and Build Quality
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HEMNES is beloved for its solid pine construction and classic design. The visible grain, soft close options, and overall sturdiness have made it a long-time favorite in IKEA bedrooms.
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GULLABERG offers a more updated frame with integrated safety features like wall anchoring and a raised leg base. It has a traditional appearance but uses particleboard and foil instead of solid wood, which may feel less premium to long-time HEMNES fans.
Aesthetic Differences
While both belong to the traditional design family, GULLABERG has:
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Cleaner lines
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Slightly raised frame with modern proportions
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A lighter overall visual footprint, especially with taller legs
HEMNES, on the other hand, looks and feels more grounded and heavy, with a farmhouse-inspired charm.

GULLABERG Photo: © IKEA – Screenshot for editorial use
Safety and Function
GULLABERG includes newer safety features standard, such as:
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Tip-over protection
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Easy-to-install wall anchoring
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Lighter construction for easier movement
HEMNES does offer tip-over protection but is heavier and may be harder to move once assembled.
Final Thoughts
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Choose HEMNES if you want more depth, solid wood feel, and a classic look that's slightly more traditional and substantial.
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Choose GULLABERG if you prefer a lighter, modern build with safety in mind and a slightly more spacious width and height.
Both have their merits, but as IKEA moves toward GULLABERG as the new standard, it's good to know what you're gaining – and what you're leaving behind.
I will take my own photos of the GULLABERG dresser once it becomes available in more European IKEA stores. Meanwhile, if you're curious about another classic being discontinued, check out MALM's successor – STORKLINTA – in this detailed comparison: mauritzinteriordesign.com/l/storklinta-vs-malm-what-s-new-in-ikeas-bedroom-storage/
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