How to Divide a Room with IKEA IVAR Units

Dividing a room doesn't always require walls or expensive built-ins. With a little creativity, IKEA's IVAR shelving system can do the job just as well – and look great while doing it. This timeless pine series is one of IKEA's most versatile, and when used in wider formats, it becomes a stylish and functional room divider for open spaces, bedrooms, or studio apartments.

Why IVAR Works as a Room Divider

Unlike fixed walls or bulky partitions, IVAR offers flexibility. You can keep the structure open and airy or close it off with cabinet doors, pegboards, or boxes. The wooden shelves provide natural warmth and a Scandinavian feel that blends well with most interiors. Plus, the modular system lets you adjust shelves, add elements, or combine with other units to suit your needs.

Want to see more ideas? Here's how we used KALLAX to divide a room in a stylish and affordable way:
👉 How to use IKEA KALLAX as a Stylish and Functional Room Divider

Is IVAR Stable Enough?

Yes, IVAR is surprisingly sturdy when assembled correctly. The vertical side posts are made of solid pine, and metal cross-braces add stability. If you're placing IVAR freestanding in the middle of a room, it's smart to fix the back with extra diagonal supports and keep heavier items toward the bottom. For extra safety in homes with kids or pets, consider anchoring one side to a wall or floor with discreet brackets.

Different Ways to Use IVAR as a Divider

Here are some examples and ideas:

• Open shelving divider: Stack books, baskets, and plants while keeping visibility across the room.

• Wine rack & cabinet combo: Combine open shelves with wine storage and closed base units for a kitchen or dining area divider.

• Children's zone: Create a play space with shelves on one side and a craft station on the other. Add SKÅDIS pegboards for extra function.

• Under-stair solutions: Use IVAR to zone awkward spaces or low ceilings without blocking light.

• Studio zoning: Separate your bed from the living space with a wide IVAR structure, combining storage and privacy.

Choosing the Right IVAR Width for Dividers

When using IVAR as a room divider, go for the wider shelf units. The 50 cm wide version creates a more stable and impactful structure compared to the narrow 30 cm option. It also makes the divider feel more substantial and functional as part of your space. 

Styling Tips

Keep IVAR looking clean and modern by:

• Leaving the pine natural or applying a transparent matte lacquer

• Painting the frame in a soft tone like sage green, white, or charcoal

• Using rattan doors or fabric panels for semi-transparency

• Adding decorative storage boxes or LED lighting to elevate the look

Looking for even more flexible or movable dividers?
Check out these 7 lightweight IKEA room dividers:
👉 7 Flexible IKEA Room Dividers That Are Easier to Move Than KALLAX

Final Thoughts

IKEA IVAR isn't just for garages and storage rooms. With a bit of creativity, it becomes a budget-friendly and flexible room divider that's easy to modify as your needs change. Whether you're living small or just want to zone your space, IVAR can help you do it with style.

All images in this article are taken by Mauritz Interior & Design inside IKEA showrooms.