For those who enjoy spontaneous barbecues, IKEA offers a clever solution. The GRILLSKÄR three-tiered shelf from IKEA can be repurposed to create additional seating for outdoor dining. By making a few adjustments, this piece can be transformed into a functional table for hosting guests.
The original design of the GRILLSKÄR shelf includes a tabletop and two lower shelves, with a lip on one side of the top portion. This lip prevents items from falling off the back of the table when pushed against a wall. To use the shelf as a table, modifications are needed, such as removing the middle shelf and leveling the tabletop with a piece of plywood. While it may not be a perfect dining table, it can serve its purpose when needed.
Turning your GRILLSKÄR three-shelf unit into a table
To convert the GRILLSKÄR shelf into a table, the middle shelf needs to be removed. This allows for comfortable seating without the risk of banging knees on the shelf. It’s important to leave the bottom shelf intact to maintain stability. While this may limit chair placement, guests can adjust themselves to sit comfortably during meals.
Dealing with the tabletop
To enhance the comfort of the tabletop, a piece of plywood can be added to even out the surface. The plywood should be placed over the tabletop to eliminate the lip on one side. To ensure a smooth dining experience, a thick plastic tablecloth can be used to cover the plywood, creating a festive look for outdoor gatherings. If a plastic tablecloth is not available, alternative options like using multiple tablecloths or a plastic tarp can also work.
