Hello everyone, I am currently planning a new wardrobe solution and the IKEA PAX series is very interesting to me because it offers many combination options. My main question is: Are there IKEA PAX wardrobe solutions that come factory-equipped with built-in lighting? I don’t mean additional, separately mounted lamps, but an integrated lighting system that is included with the purchase and fits seamlessly into the system. If so, what exactly does this lighting include (type, position, control options), and how practical is it for everyday use? And if not, does anyone know good alternatives or recommendations on how to illuminate PAX wardrobes effectively and attractively? Thanks in advance for your experiences and tips!
Good morning, your question is very relevant, as many customers specifically want an integrated lighting solution for PAX. As far as I know, IKEA does not offer PAX wardrobe systems with factory-installed integrated lighting. Instead, there are separate lighting components available, such as LED strips or sensor lights, which can be mounted inside the wardrobe.
These solutions are modular but usually need to be installed by the user (for example, using adhesive tape or screws). The control is often done via a switch or motion sensor, which is more practical than you might expect. Light sources like LED spotlights or strips provide pleasant illumination inside the wardrobe but are not part of a pre-assembled system with electrical cables built into the carcass.
In short, you will not find fixed, integrated lighting as a standard feature in a PAX wardrobe. It is more of a flexible retrofit option, which IKEA covers well.
These solutions are modular but usually need to be installed by the user (for example, using adhesive tape or screws). The control is often done via a switch or motion sensor, which is more practical than you might expect. Light sources like LED spotlights or strips provide pleasant illumination inside the wardrobe but are not part of a pre-assembled system with electrical cables built into the carcass.
In short, you will not find fixed, integrated lighting as a standard feature in a PAX wardrobe. It is more of a flexible retrofit option, which IKEA covers well.
nubar schrieb:
As far as I know, IKEA does not offer PAX wardrobe systems with factory-installed lighting.I can confirm this from a technical perspective but would like to take the opportunity to explain the options in more detail, as the lighting topic for PAX is often more complex than it seems at first glance.
The PAX modules are delivered standard without pre-installed electrical circuits or lighting systems, which is understandable given the high level of customization possible. However, IKEA does offer a fairly wide range of LED lighting, such as LED light strips in different lengths, LED spotlights powered by batteries or mains, and motion sensors, which can be easily installed inside the wardrobe.
Installation is typically done using Velcro or magnetic attachments, and sometimes the lamps are screwed onto supplied mounts. Increasingly important is the connection to a power supply, which must be evaluated depending on the wardrobe’s location (for example, near a power outlet).
For a quick and tidy solution, I recommend LED strips with mains connection that can be mounted on the back panel or shelves. This provides even illumination, especially for wardrobes with multiple compartments.
Question: What exactly do you have in mind regarding the control and the overall appearance? It is particularly important to consider whether the wardrobe can be permanently connected to the electrical grid or if battery-powered lighting is preferred.
I had the same idea myself because I wanted to have indirect lighting in my PAX wardrobe in the dressing room – it creates a very cozy atmosphere.
For me, the main goal was to have the lighting turn on automatically when the wardrobe doors open and then turn off again after a few seconds. For this, I used PIR motion sensors from IKEA combined with LED strips. Installation was really simple since the system is designed for retrofitting. I think it’s very important to avoid messy cables and to hide everything neatly; otherwise, it quickly looks untidy.
And yes, I also had to figure out how to manage the power supply – in my case, I was able to connect the strips directly to a power outlet, which was clean and discreet. However, you should carefully consider the installation if you don’t have electrical skills.
I know there is no PAX version with integrated factory-installed lighting, but with accessories, it can be done quite professionally and elegantly.
Domau0 schrieb:
Question: What exactly do you have in mind regarding the control and overall appearance?
For me, the main goal was to have the lighting turn on automatically when the wardrobe doors open and then turn off again after a few seconds. For this, I used PIR motion sensors from IKEA combined with LED strips. Installation was really simple since the system is designed for retrofitting. I think it’s very important to avoid messy cables and to hide everything neatly; otherwise, it quickly looks untidy.
And yes, I also had to figure out how to manage the power supply – in my case, I was able to connect the strips directly to a power outlet, which was clean and discreet. However, you should carefully consider the installation if you don’t have electrical skills.
I know there is no PAX version with integrated factory-installed lighting, but with accessories, it can be done quite professionally and elegantly.
Interesting discussion here! I always find it remarkable how many people dream of fully integrated lighting in PAX wardrobes, even though IKEA emphasizes maximum modularity with PAX and therefore minimizes plug-and-play elements – which is exactly why they don’t offer built-in lighting as a standard feature.
Exactly! It’s quite obvious that this doesn’t really fit into a system defined by individual sizes, interior configurations, and later modifications.
Anyone really expecting a workshop-style solution might want to consider something else. Besides, the separately available LED systems from IKEA are well designed and allow much more flexibility in the end result – including easy upgrades or replacements.
Sometimes I wonder if the strong demand for “integrated lighting” is more wishful thinking without a practical basis. What do you think?
nubar schrieb:
You won’t find fixed, integrated lighting in a PAX wardrobe as a standard product.
Exactly! It’s quite obvious that this doesn’t really fit into a system defined by individual sizes, interior configurations, and later modifications.
Anyone really expecting a workshop-style solution might want to consider something else. Besides, the separately available LED systems from IKEA are well designed and allow much more flexibility in the end result – including easy upgrades or replacements.
Sometimes I wonder if the strong demand for “integrated lighting” is more wishful thinking without a practical basis. What do you think?
Similar topics