Clever penthouse design: IKEA secrets

Designer Meital Zimber saves money with customization at IKEA.

  (photo credit: IDAN GUR)
(photo credit: IDAN GUR)
  • Designer: Meital Zimber
  • Home: Penthouse in Shoham, 7th floor
  • Area: 160 sqm + 60 sqm terrace
  • Family: Couple plus 4 children in Shoham

Interior designer Meital Zimber crafted a contractor's apartment, a couple with four young children in Shoham. They sought a cheerful home with ample storage solutions and practicality, given their young kids' age. Zimber devised carpentry plans, and the client, a professional programmer, opted to save significantly by utilizing Zimber's expertise and IKEA plans, customizing with carpentry adjustments.

  (credit: IDAN GUR)
(credit: IDAN GUR)
  (credit: IDAN GUR)
(credit: IDAN GUR)
  (credit: IDAN GUR)
(credit: IDAN GUR)

The family's joy and unique character are evident right from the living room, adorned with vibrant wallpaper stretching across a 6-meter wall, alongside a deep blue upholstered sofa and a playful colorful bench. The wallpaper itself is mounted behind the TV sofa, ensuring uninterrupted viewing.

From receiving the keys, the project ran for only 3 weeks, following a pre-planned schedule for purchases and more, minimizing time spent outside the home.

  (credit: IDAN GUR)
(credit: IDAN GUR)
  (credit: IDAN GUR)
(credit: IDAN GUR)

The communal space was designed as one large rectangle, housing the living and dining areas. Upon entering the apartment, an angular view of the TV wall and part of the island is visible. As two children play the piano in the house, it was integrated into the central space, allowing the entire family to enjoy familial musicality.

The kitchen exudes tranquility, creating a balance with the "noisy" living room. A kitchen in a very light coffee tone was chosen. For the island, a wooden surface with a special coating was selected, surrounded by bar stools in different hues. Warm and cozy parquet flooring is laid throughout the house.

  (credit: IDAN GUR)
(credit: IDAN GUR)
  (credit: IDAN GUR)
(credit: IDAN GUR)

The hallway is fully utilized, incorporating numerous storage solutions, both open and closed. Most cabinets contain shoes, so a practical and useful bench was also designed. Additionally, a concealed integral refrigerator is hidden in the hallway, serving as the family's secondary fridge.

At the end of the hallway lies an intimate family corner for TV viewing and games. At the hallway's conclusion are the children's rooms, each adorned with wallpapers according to the child's preference, yet each wallpaper integrated uniquely.

  (credit: IDAN GUR)
(credit: IDAN GUR)

The parents' suite is spacious and accommodating, featuring a work corner at the entrance and, further on, the couple's romantic corner.

The expansive 60-square-meter terrace, accessible from the living room, is filled with indulgences, including an outdoor kitchen, barbecue area, oven, TV corner, and seating—a space designed to accommodate various functions.