Where did we get those display cases?

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Commercial Retail Display Case Ikea Hack

We’ve received many compliments on the rolling display cases in the new showroom, and inquiries about how we found them. Because it’s a small space, we knew we wanted full glass, and we wanted them on wheels for easier cleaning and moving. We also wanted them to be tall, to bring more figures to eye level.

We looked at many sources for common retail furniture, but were on a budget. Ultimately, we found that Ikea had exactly what we needed for less than $100 each, assembled.

Here’s how we built them.

  • The base is a Lack side table with casters ($19.99 ea.) The extra width gives us an added benefit by spacing the cases apart. Much easier to keep clean.
  • We added some Inreda LED spot lights (~$15 per light and accouterments) to the cases where shadows were a problem.
  • We assembled each Detolf and Lack, which took maybe 45 minutes all together. Then, we aligned the Detolf carefully in the center of the Lack top, marking the outline with sharpie.
  • We then attached the Detolf to the base with Silicone.
  • For fancy height variations, leave the sides off the Lack table and just bolt the top and bottom together.
  • Set the cases, and attach your preferred lighting as instructed.

(Inreda is pretty old technology, but we were on a deadline, plus I think it’s been discontinued by Ikea. If anyone knows of a comparable low-cost higher-performance spot with a gimbal, share your recommendation in the comments below. The gimbal is the key for accommodate the specific lighting needs of each case.)

Each case is heavy so be careful and have someone help you lift it onto the base. When assembled into pods, these monsters are solid and very stable. Wheel chocks can be added for additional stability, or you can leave the casters off. Also, if you have kids or big dogs or other tipping hazards, considering leaving off the casters and anchoring them together.

On the whole they each took maybe an hour to assemble, not counting the lighting installation.

If you’re planning a trip to get these materials, double-check inventory first. Our local Ikea sold completely out of Detolfs during Planet Comicon, and Lack tables are high-demand year round.