At $7.99 the LACK table from IKEA is a popular purchase. Supremely simple in design, this piece looks great in the living room or even as a minimalist beside table. Alas, like all things, the surface inevitably shows signs of wear—and there is only so many times you’ll want to reposition a potted plant or stack of books to strategically cover up scuffs or stains. It’s good to know that there is light at the end of tunnel when its life as a table begins to look LACK luster!

At Re-nest we love when something can be repurposed in a stylish manner. With a little reupholstering magic the LACK side table is transformed into a multi-functioning design that is especially useful in small spaces. You can still use the piece as a table - just grab great tray and you’re good to go. And when company arrives you can switch to seating mode without over crowding an already tight space.
Ok, so IKEA's website specs inform us that the max load for this structure is 25kg, but given that people are not permanent fixtures I think there is quite a bit of wiggle room here. Just remember that as with most furniture, it's best not to plop down dead weight on this re-worked wonder!
(Image: MaryAnne Petrella)


Ercol Bar Stool
Love it. I've got one of these that's pretty messed up on the top. I'll be doing something similar. Thanks for the inspiration.
To resolve the weight issue, you could always install a set of crossbars underneath to solidify the frame.
I covered my LACK in cork-contact paper. Not a stool, but also fetching and less scuff visibility
LACK luster! LOL On a serious note, that came really good!
Golly, I sit on my lack side tables all the time - I never thought to check the weight recommendation! For an average sized female, at least, they seem to survive well as occasional seating.
This is better than most Lack side table ottoman hacks out there. It still looks too Lack-y for my tastes, but I appreciate the effort. Don't get me wrong; I love lack tables, but I keep hoping for an ottoman hack that addresses the weight concerns and also looks a bit more stylish.
i had my dinosaur of a tv on my lack table and it held up (amazingly) fine :)
This is great! I have three of these tables as they were only like $7 last time I was at IKEA
I weigh 50kg but have sat on my lack table an embarrassing number of times with no issues! :)
Great idea! I also had no trouble sitting on this table. Should the legs be shorten a bit? it's quite tall for an ottoman?