Make the Most of Your Downtown Chicago Apartment with IKEA

Those of us living in downtown Chicago apartments are lucky to enjoy many benefits and conveniences. Amazing restaurants, short commutes, tons of festivals, and excellent public transportation. Another perk that comes with living in a big city is proximity to IKEA. Or in our case, two glorious IKEA stores. Many of the struggles that come with living in a downtown Chicago apartment can be easily solved with a little IKEA magic. Whether you need to maximize storage space or add kitchen counter space, IKEA can help. Grab a Zipcar for the day and head out to Bolingbrook or Schaumburg. 

While most of the newest luxury apartments are being built with island counter tops to eat at and work on while cooking, not every downtown apartment in Chicago has plentiful counter space. Fortunately, IKEA has a range of different kitchen islands and carts- some with additional shelving below or with space to pull up a couple of stools. Most have at least two wheels so that they can be moved aside when needed. The one bedroom model at Cityfront Place in Streeterville has a great example of an island in this style and many residents decide to make the same addition.

Everyone wants tons of storage in their apartment, but not everyone gets a massive walk-in closet or extra spaces to store bulky seasonal items. IKEA can help utilize every tiny bit of space; they sell underbed storage boxes and any kind of dresser or nightstand imaginable. The greatest storage option might be ALGOT; IKEA’s “endlessly adaptable” storage system. Whether you select pieces and create your own closet, or purchase a ready-made option, the best part is that you can take ALGOT with you when you move between downtown Chicago apartments.

Don’t forget about bathroom storage! IKEA can help with that too- without drilling a single hole. Wall space can be used with the STUGVIK system that attaches baskets and rails with suction cups. Or buy a shelf to slide under the bathroom sink for storage that doesn’t take up valuable floor space.

While you’re shopping, here are a few more IKEA ideas:

1. Whether you have hardwood floors or carpet, area rugs are the perfect way to change the feel of a room without seriously altering it. IKEA has over 100 inexpensive rugs to choose from.
2. Even if you think your kitchen is fully stocked, IKEA has at least a dozen things for it. Pick up a fun cutting board, some bright pot holders, a ridiculously cheap set of wine glasses, even pots and pans. This section is impossible to walk through empty-handed.
3. Cushions and pillow covers are another easy fix to brighten up a room or refresh furniture. IKEA’s patterns and prices cannot be beat.

When you need a new apartment in downtown Chicago for all of your new IKEA treasures, Luxury Living Chicago is here to help.