ᐅ How do I install Ikea Pax wardrobes in tight spaces?

Hello everyone, I plan to assemble an Ikea Pax wardrobe in a very tight space. The room’s height and width leave hardly any room to move, especially when putting together the side panels and the back panel.

My main question is: What strategies or tips do you have for safely and efficiently assembling large furniture like the Pax in small, confined spaces? Are there specific steps, tools, or techniques you would recommend when there is very little room to maneuver?

I appreciate any help!

gojote schrieb:
My main question is: What strategies or tips do you have for safely and efficiently assembling large furniture pieces like the Pax in small, tight spaces?

I know that struggle all too well; the space issue during assembly can be really frustrating. I almost gave up once because I could barely reach the back panel. What helped me was working with a second person and preparing the wardrobe parts as individual modules before putting them together in the room. Also, I’d recommend sorting all screws and parts beforehand and following the instructions carefully – this greatly reduces chaos and time pressure.

Always assemble the large parts loosely first, then carry them to their intended positions. Attach the back panel only at the very end, once everything is in place. Use a cordless drill with adjustable torque settings; it makes the assembly much easier.

Here is a brief step-by-step guide for assembling the Pax system in confined spaces:

- Preparation: Group parts according to size and assembly stage.
- Perform rough partial assembly outside the room if possible (e.g., assembling the frame).
- Attach side panels with only a few screws initially, so they can still be adjusted.
- Tilt the cabinet frame into the room, align it, and then fully tighten all fastenings.
- Always install the back panel last; otherwise, space can become very tight.

Important: Use a wide mat or soft padding to prevent damage. Check alignment regularly with a spirit level.

A common mistake is installing the back panel too early, which leaves no room to assemble the interior components.

SUDAN schrieb:
A common mistake is that people install the back panel too early and then don’t have enough space to assemble the interior components.

Honestly, that’s almost a truism. I find the entire Ikea-style assembly a bit too complicated for small spaces anyway. You might even think the design was created by people who have never lived in cramped apartments. Maybe it would be better to plan completely differently—for example, cabinets made of modular units that can be fully pre-assembled outside—but the Paxe wardrobes aren’t really designed for that.

Basically, I recommend taking enough time at the beginning and paying close attention to the room dimensions. Sometimes it’s better to bring the cabinet parts into the room one by one, rather than trying to squeeze the fully assembled piece inside.

If space is limited, you can also leave parts of the cladding or doors off initially and install them after the main assembly. This way, you have a bit more room to move.

Having a helper is really valuable for projects like this. With two people, you can assemble the cabinet more safely and faster.