IKEA's Stylish Solution For Outdoor Storage That Looks Better Than A Deck Box

There's a natural law that seems to apply to outdoor storage: It's either very expensive, very ugly, or both. And while IKEA might not be the brand that jumps to mind for yard storage, there are a couple of attractive (and functional) picks in the outdoor aisle. The KOLBJÖRN indoor/outdoor cabinet is one of the internet's favorite outdoor IKEA finds. Besides being a far sight more attractive than most vinyl deck boxes, as a cabinet, it's also arguably easier to organize — and comes with a subtle bonus. The top can be a convenient work surface. 

Made from powder-coated galvanized steel, the cabinet has two doors, one interior shelf, and adjustable feet. Just over a foot deep and roughly 2.5 feet long, it's small enough to fit snugly against an exterior wall, while still being roomy enough to hold outdoor essentials like small gardening tools or grilling gear. Many reviewers relay how well it works for stashing various items on a patio. "We store our boots and garden gloves, etc. in this fantastic cupboard. Perfect design. Ideal size and great value for the price," enthused one pleased IKEA customer. Another said it's a "great organization item for storage on the deck. Looks great too!"

Speaking of looks, the KOLBJÖRN comes in a creamy beige, with simple lines, rounded edges, and an airy, contemporary look that most outdoor storage offerings lack. At $169.99, it's a pretty well-priced option, especially if you're after an outdoor piece that's a bit cuter than the average resin deck box.

The compact KOLBJÖRN has gone mildly viral online, with posts showcasing it used for everything from a patio shoe cabinet to balcony storage for small pillows and bags of potting mix. You can use it as an outdoor sideboard, as an ad hoc work surface near your grill, or as a dedicated storage solution for barbecue supplies. Alternatively, turn the cabinet into an all-out potting station by mounting a couple of shelves behind it. The doors can be secured with a padlock, ideal if you want to keep things like fertilizer away from kids and pets (or increase backyard security). It can also be secured to the wall to reduce tip hazards. For increased storage, you can easily team up multiple units to create a longer cabinet, as one reviewer did for their dining supplies. The KOLBJÖRN is also part of a modular series that includes a matching shelf unit and taller cabinets. 

As the metal is both galvanized and powder-coated, the KOLBJÖRN cabinet should hold up on an uncovered patio — an important consideration when buying outdoor furniture. However, it has gotten mixed reviews for water intrusion. One person, who has three of the cabinets, reported that "after a year of sitting on a patio totally exposed to the elements they have done very well, and the insides have stayed bone dry." But another reviewer found water inside after a rainstorm and recommends placing moisture-sensitive items in plastic bins. Some buyers have also encountered problems with the doors hanging unevenly. Whether this is triggered by a manufacturing or assembly issue isn't clear, but a few reviews share an easy fix: Adjust the cabinet feet until the doors hang straight.