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IKEA Modular Kitchen Systems

An example of the IKEA Enhet Kitchen Series.

Sometimes your available space is just so limited that in order to create a functional kitchen with adequate storage you have to go modular. Somewhere between an actual kitchen and a kitchenette exists the Modular Kitchen. In this week’s post we cover the form and function of IKEA Knoxhult, Sunnersta, and Enhet modular kitchen systems.

On more than one instance we have seen these modular IKEA cabinet systems as some folk’s introduction to IKEA cabinetry. These product lines tend to be a bit less expensive and therefore a little less durable than the Sektion or Metod lines. As you read ahead we will discuss the pros and cons of the 3 Modular Kitchen Systems.

An example of the cabinets available in the IKEA Enhet Kitchen Series.
Image Source: Inter IKEA Systems B.V.

2023 Modular Kitchen Systems

As of early 2023 IKEA is currently offering 3 modular kitchen systems in North America: the Knoxhult, Sunnersta, and Enhet kitchen systems. These 3 different product lines come with different options and are of varying degrees of quality. From motel to dorm room, studio to office, there are a ton of different reasons why a modular kitchen system is the way to go.

Drawings of some of the cabinets available in the IKEA Enhet Kitchen Series.
Image Source: Inter IKEA Systems B.V.

the Knoxhult Modular Kitchen System

The Knoxhult Series is a very stripped dow, off-white flat panel cabinet system with a handful of options. Really, there are 3 different sizes of base cabinets and 3 sizes of wall cabinets. You can purchase the Knoxhult wall and base cabinets separately or pick up one of their 3 sized kits.

An example of the IKEA Knoxhult Kitchen Series.
Image Source: Inter IKEA Systems B.V.

It should be noted that these cabinets are very stripped down compared to an IKEA Sektion Kitchen:

  • These base cabinets do not have internal Maximera drawers.
  • The available cabinet doors and drawers are limited to white and flat panel.
  • It’s important to point out that this cabinet line only comes with a 2 Year Limited Warranty. How comprehensive or limited a warranty is shows how much confidence a manufacture has in their product. A product line with a 25 year warranty is a product line the manufacturer doesn’t expect to have to replace or repair very often.
Another example of the IKEA Knoxhult Kitchen Series.
Image Source: Inter IKEA Systems B.V.

Based on the limitations of of the Knoxhult line it would make the most sense to limit their installations to light-traffic areas where they won’t take a huge beating. If you have a guest house or studio apartment that won’t see a lot of use throughout the year, a Knoxhult kitchen could work well.

the Sunnersta Modular Kitchen System

The Sunnersta Series really stands out and apart from other IKEA kitchen options. This Modular IKEA Kitchen is by far the most mobile option available. This inexpensive option is perfect for break rooms, work stations, and laundry rooms. The Sunnersta is likely the most no-nonsense option for Dorms and Studio Apartments.

An example of the IKEA Sunnersta Kitchen Series.
Image Source: Inter IKEA Systems B.V.

As for options, the Sunnersta is limited to the Mini-Kitchen with sink & shelf, additional adjustable racks, and a variety of plastic organizers to match. Like the Knoxhult, the Sunnersta comes with only a 2 Year Limited Warranty.

Another example of the IKEA Sunnersta Kitchen Series.
Image Source: Inter IKEA Systems B.V.

the Enhet Modular Kitchen System

The Enhet Series is quite a bit different than the Knoxhult or Sunnersta. It is clear that the Enhet is meant to be a cost effective Modular Kitchen System that looks good and maximizes limited space. The Enhet Kitchen is currently available in 5 different configurations, priced between $1200 and $1675 USD.

An example of the IKEA Enhet Kitchen Series.
Image Source: Inter IKEA Systems B.V.

If space is limited but a functional kitchen with practical storage options is needed, an Enhet Kitchen is a smart option. Especially if an open design is right for the space. The open shelves and racks are a lovely feature you don’t really see being used as a main feature of other IKEA Kitchen systems.

An example of some of the cabinets available in the IKEA Enhet Kitchen Series.
Image Source: Inter IKEA Systems B.V.

While being stripped down, it is clear that the Enhet series is related to the Sektion Kitchen:

  • The Enhet base cabinets do not have internal Maximera drawer options.
  • The Enhet cabinet doors and drawers are available in White Thermofoil and White Oak Effect Flat Panel, as well as Gray and White Thermofoil Shaker Style fronts.
  • Unlike the other modular options, the Enhet comes with a 10 Year Warranty for residential installations.
An example of the upper cabinets available in the IKEA Enhet Kitchen Series.
Image Source: Inter IKEA Systems B.V.

Based on finish & configuration options along with a pretty adequate 10 Year Warranty, our favorite is the Enhet Modular Kitchen Series. Whether it’s a Mother-In-Law’s Apartment, Studio Apartment, or Dorm, the Enhet is cost effective, stylish, and streamlined. For under $2K with a solid warranty, this is the definitely the best choice.

Written by Todd Zimmerman

Producer of the John Webbccast

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