Living with a flatmate can be a great experience. You get to share your living space with someone and split the rent and utilities, making it more affordable. However, when it comes to shopping and assembling furniture, it can sometimes be a challenge. One of the most popular places to shop for furniture is IKEA, and while their products are stylish and affordable, they can also be a bit tricky to assemble. In this blog post, we will teach you how to shop at IKEA and reassemble the furniture to make your living space comfortable and functional.

Step 1: Plan Ahead

Before you head to IKEA, it's important to plan ahead. You should decide what items you need for your living space and create a shopping list. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases that you might regret later. You should also measure the space where you plan to put the furniture, including doorways and stairwells, to ensure that everything will fit through.

Step 2: Shop Smart

When you arrive at IKEA, it can be overwhelming, with so many products to choose from. Here are some tips to help you shop smart:

Look for items that serve multiple purposes: IKEA has a variety of items that can serve more than one purpose. For example, a storage ottoman can be used as a coffee table and also provide storage for blankets and pillows.

Consider the assembly process: Some IKEA products require more assembly than others. If you're not comfortable with assembling furniture, look for items that are easier to put together.

Check the clearance section: IKEA often has a clearance section where you can find great deals on furniture that might have a small scratch or dent.

Don't be afraid to ask for help: If you're not sure about a product or need help finding something, don't be afraid to ask an IKEA employee for assistance.

Step 3: Assemble the Furniture

Now that you have your IKEA furniture, it's time to assemble it. While this can be a daunting task, following these tips can make it easier:

Read the instructions carefully: Before you start assembling the furniture, read the instructions carefully. Make sure you have all the necessary tools and parts before you begin.

Follow the steps in order: It's important to follow the steps in the order they are listed. Skipping a step can cause you to have to disassemble and start over.

Use a power drill: While it's possible to assemble IKEA furniture with just a screwdriver, using a power drill can make the process go much faster.

Don't tighten all the screws at once: When assembling the furniture, don't tighten all the screws at once. This can cause the furniture to be uneven or wobbly. Instead, tighten each screw a little at a time until everything is secure.

Step 4: Make Your Living Space Livable

Now that your IKEA furniture is assembled, it's time to make your living space livable. Here are some tips to help you:

Create designated areas: Create designated areas for different activities, such as a reading nook or a TV-watching area. This will help your living space feel more organized and functional.

Add storage: IKEA has a variety of storage solutions, such as bookcases and wardrobes. Adding storage can help you keep your living space clutter-free and organized.

Decorate with textiles: IKEA has a variety of textiles, such as curtains and rugs, that can add colour and texture to your living space.

Personalize your space: Add personal touches to your living space, such as photos or artwork, to make it feel like home.

Conclusion

Shopping at IKEA and assembling furniture can be a challenge, but with a little planning and patience, it can be a rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can make your living space comfortable and functional for you and your flatmate. Remember to plan ahead, shop smart, assemble carefully, and make your space livable with designated areas, storage solutions, textiles, and personal touches. With these steps, you and your flatmate can create a cozy and stylish home that you both will love.