If you thought the IKEA Rödeby tray was destined for a quiet life draped on sofa armrests, think again! The art of the IKEA Hack is all about transformation—turning the plain and practical into centerpieces of creativity. Ready to breathe new life into your living space (without terrifying your bank account)? Here are 8 inspired ways the Rödeby tray can do more than hold your remote and cup of tea.
What’s the Secret Behind the Rödeby Tray?
- The Rödeby tray is designed first and foremost to perch atop your sofa or armchair armrest. Simple, yes, but don’t be fooled by its humble beginnings!
- Crafted from bamboo and boasting a natural finish, it slides seamlessly into any home décor scheme. It’s humidity-resistant (no drama with drink spills) and incredibly easy to keep spotless, too.
8 Genius Ways to Transform the Rödeby Tray
- Original Side Table: Paint your Rödeby tray white and wrap it around the base of a coffee table. The result? An elegant, modern look. Those embossed patterns aren’t just there for kicks—they add an irresistible texture that gives your table real character.
- Naturally Minimal Vase: Let your imagination run wild (with safety scissors and a little patience). Cut and reshape the tray to form chic wooden vases. Fill with dried flowers or greenery to welcome a simple, refreshing touch of nature into any room.
- Couch Corner Upgrade: Looking to jazz up a tired sofa or chair? Attach a Rödeby tray to the back—instantly, you’ve got a discreet yet refined platform. Whether you need a tiny table for your odds and ends or just a touch of subtle flair, this hack is as practical as it is easy.
- Designer Fruit Bowl: Slice and assemble sections of your tray, and voilà—a lightweight, groovy fruit bowl for your kitchen or dining room. Its natural look pairs with any style and ensures your apples and oranges lounge in the lap of design luxury. Functional and decorative? Check and check.
- DIY Coffee Table: Connect multiple Rödeby trays and you’ve got yourself a trendy, light coffee table, perfect for minimalist lounges. If you want a bolder note, add some metallic legs—the contemporary vibe will fit right in with any chic interior.
- Custom Chest of Drawers: Why settle for a ho-hum dresser? Cut the tray into smaller pieces and stick them to your drawer fronts or edges. Instantly, you’ll elevate your chest of drawers with unique texture and a custom, one-of-a-kind finish.
- Nightstand Makeover: Attach the Rödeby tray to the back or atop your bedside table for a clean design upgrade. It does double duty: elevating the piece aesthetically and making it even more practical for your bedtime rituals.
- Closet Door Camouflage (and Water Heater Hideout): Use the tray to disguise closet doors or even unsightly water heaters. This isn’t just about hiding the less attractive details of your home—it’s an excuse to bring aesthetically pleasing, functional design to spaces that often get overlooked.
Why the Rödeby Tray Is a DIY Dream
The Rödeby tray isn’t shy about multitasking. While it’s a handy sofa accessory in its original form, these hacks prove it’s a bona fide customizing tool for anyone looking to shake up their interior style. With nothing but a spark of creativity—and maybe a screwdriver or two—you can take simple bamboo and turn it into the talking point of your living room. All without splurging. Your piggy bank can breathe easy.
Final Flourish: Dare to Hack More?
With these 8 hacks, a little imagination, and a Rödeby tray or two, you’ll feel like a bona fide interior architect in no time. Hungry for more? The BILLY bookcase, LURÖY bed slats, and the ever-popular RÅSKOG cart are also rich with DIY possibilities—as any IKEA hacker worth their salt knows.
So, roll up your sleeves, grab your toolkit, and start reshaping your space. Sometimes, the perfect piece of modern design is already in your living room—just waiting for its moment in the spotlight.
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
